Mississippi Gateway Regional Park Offers Refreshing Escape
Practice social distancing and take advantage of trails, picnic spots and more at the newly renamed Mississippi Gateway Regional Park in Brooklyn Park.
There are big plans to enhance the former Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park in the future. Eventually there will be a new visitors center, elevated tree canopy walkway, better trails, more picnic areas and an improved boat launch. Expansion of the parking lot is already finished. You can read more about the master plan here.
People we spoke with at the park enjoy the serenity.
“You can leave your worries behind when you walk across the bridge and see the water come over,” said Margy Peterson. “We are outdoor people and we love to go to parks and this is one of our favorites.”
Even on spring days when the sky is spitting snow, people were walking the trails and enjoying the park. It’s not unusual to see bald eagles flying over the river, and deer, wild turkeys and other critters in the woods. Each season, the mighty Mississippi changes its mood and look depending on Minnesota’s rapidly changing weather.
“This is a great place to go if you want to get out, walk your dog and exercise,” said Tyler Elerbusch. “Being inside puts you in a mood that you don’t want to do anything, but you come outside and get in the sun and you are active all day for the most part.”
Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, formerly Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, is operated by both Three Rivers Park District and the city of Brooklyn Park. Three Rivers Park District has published social distancing guidelines that include facts to know, like bathrooms are closed and maintain six feet between yourself and others. To learn more, click here.
