Tucked into Nelson Farm, the Hay Creek Garden is one of those places that feels especially magical this time of year, part inspiration, part fresh-air reset, part reminder that good things are growing.
As the snow begins to melt and spring planting season comes into view, it feels like the perfect time to turn our attention to the garden and the care that goes into it. Before the first seedlings take root and the season begins to bloom, get to know the person behind the gardening magic at Hay Creek Garden.
Meet the Gardener: Regan Johnson
Regan has been part of Hay Creek Garden for the past nine years, first as an intern, then as head gardener and supervisor. Her path to gardening wasn’t a straight line, which makes her story even better.
“I earned my degree in filmmaking and started out editing videos… It didn’t take long for me to realize I needed something more dynamic, something that connected me to the outdoors and involved movement.”
After discovering edible gardening, she enrolled in an urban agriculture program, left her editing career behind, and eventually found her way to Suncadia.
“For the past nine years, I’ve been running Hay Creek Garden, and it’s truly my dream job.”
What keeps her passionate is the connection the garden creates, both with guests and across the resort.
“The most rewarding part is inspiring guests and showing them what’s possible when growing your own food. Watching kids pull carrots from the soil and eat them, sometimes for the first time, is pure joy.”
“Collaborating with chefs to help shape their menus using fresh garden produce is always a highlight.”
This spring, the garden team is planning thoughtful additions, including new fruit trees, expanded asparagus, more berries along the fence line, and early blooms like ranunculus to brighten the season and support pollinators.
And what makes tending the garden at Suncadia so special, in Regan’s words, is the people behind it.
“Over the past few years, Suncadia has built an incredible team of passionate, forward-thinking individuals. What’s truly special is that this team doesn’t just dream big when it comes to the garden, they make those dreams a reality.”
“There’s a real dedication to creating meaningful farm-to-table experiences, and it’s driven by people who share a deep love for the land and for food.”