WCWOct2022

ode to the
Sarasota Celery Fields
Sarasota’s Celery Field Park is
repurposed land. What was once
farmland has been reengineered as a
park, hiking trail and bird sanctuary.
Most prominent is the man-made
hill at its center. So, no, that’s not an ancient
burial mound. It’s repurposed land that used to
be - wait for it - celery fields. There are minimal
signs, trash cans or lights to spoil the solitude
as you scale your way to the top.
In the summer they’re out there, glazed in
sweat, getting a fast-paced workout in the
evening and not all that interested in the view
or the environment. Others are casual walkers
and a few hearty types taking the challenge of
a steep limb to the top instead
of the meandering path most take.
▲ A man-made hill greets you.
The best part is reaching the summit and, on
a clear day, you can see Sarasota Memorial
Hospital and other landmarks to the west. To
the east is still undeveloped, so the contrast is
pretty dramatic. Nothing fancy just a nice walk
and a perch usually reserved for birds.
There’s a bit of wildlife — rabbits, an occasional
snake and lots of scruffy green vegetation.
It’s basic, makes you feel like you’ve left the
crowded world — if only for a while
The Celery Fields are located east of I-75 on
Palmer Boulevard in Sarasota.
▲
You can meander your way up or challenge
yourself with a steep climb like this.
▲ View from the top,
looking west.
▲
The climb is visually
quiet which allows for
some tranquility and
mind-clearing.
STORY and PHOTOS:
Louise Bruderle
34 WEST COAST WOMAN OCTOBER 2022