Experience the Mighty Mississippi Up Close at Brooklyn Park’s Mississippi Gateway Regional Park
Address: 10360 West River Road, Brooklyn Park, MN 55444
About the Mississippi Gateway Regional Park
The power and wonder of the Mississippi River is on full display at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, one of the gems of the Three Rivers Park system. Formerly known as the Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park opened in 1978, the park underwent a massive renovation that celebrates the Mississippi River and connects people of all generations.
The Mighty Mississippi
The centerpiece of any visit to Mississippi Gateway is, of course, its namesake. A 12-foot-wide observation walkway allows people to experience the raging waters rushing over the top of the dam. You can even catch some rainbows appearing in the mist! The park also boasts a host of wildlife that live here or are just passing through, including beavers, river otters, and hawks.
Additionally, there are two miles of trails along the river’s banks. The shallow portions are a popular place for families to wade into the water, fish, and play on the rocks and fallen tree limbs. The river can be unpredictable, so keep a close eye on your children and take all necessary safety precautions.
Gateway Center
The visitor center is a great first stop for anyone traveling to the Mississippi Gateway Regional Park for the first time. First, families can take in incredible views from the center’s large new deck overlooking the river. They have a wide array of educational exhibits focused on the Mississippi River, including several live animal displays- think fish, turtles, and toads. The visitor center is also home to the park’s free equipment rentals, where patrons can check out fishing poles, yard games, and nature exploration backpacks.
Treetop Trail in Brooklyn Park
Connected to the Gateway Center’s wraparound deck is the new Treetop Trail. If you’ve visited the Minnesota Zoo lately, you have a good idea of just how incredible these elevated boardwalks are! Perfect for newly walking toddlers and families with strollers, the Treetop Trail is an excellent way to explore the forest and wetlands. It also connects to the nature playground and their “Mini Mississippi” water splash area.
Mississippi Gateway Regional Park Highlights
- 160-acre park with endless opportunities to see the Mississippi River up close
- State of the Art Gateway Center with wraparound deck overlooking the river
- Treetop trail and splash pad
- Archery Range
- Nature-inspired and traditional playgrounds
- Free equipment rentals (fishing poles, yard games, nature exploration backpacks)
- Bike rentals available
- Fishing bait is available for purchase
- Snack and drink concessions
- Dog park
- Walking bog through wetlands
- Nature School
Know Before You Go
- Website
- Hours: Open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
- Gateway Visitor Center open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays through Labor Day
- Upcoming Mississippi Gateway programs and events
Mary McGuire is a mother of two young girls and freelance journalist based in the Twin Cities. Her current interests include searching for lost pacifiers, cleaning up crushed Cheerios, and sharing everything our great state has to offer with other families. Born and raised in Edina, Mary has worked in broadcast television for more than a decade at TV stations across the country.
