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Trout Brook Nature Sanctuary is a 40+ acre park located west of 1-35E between Norpac Rd and Cayuga Ave.  It has family-friendly amenities that include hiking and biking trails, space for picnics and restroom facilities. The park is part of the larger Trout Brook Greenway.

5 Ideas for Family Fun at Trout Brook Nature Sanctuary

1. Hunt for Dragonflies! The park provides a great habitat for these prehistoric creatures.
2. Look for butterflies and bees in the pollinator-friendly perennial gardens
3. Go for a family hike
4. Bring the bikes and take a family bike ride
5. Pack a picnic and eat outdoors

Habitat Restoration

Because the railroads completely changed the landscape and use of Trout Brook by leveling hills and valley, neighbors, civic leaders and the park board have been working to restore the park to its pre-industrial landscape. Look for volunteer events to further this goal.

Perennial Garden at Trout Brook Nature Sanctuary

Visitors in the summer months can check out the newly planted perennial gardens at this location. This park was one of three Saint Paul parks to plant perennial gardens in 2018. Trout Brook’s gardens are divided into two small spaces with four beds around the facility building. Plants include Honeysuckles, grasses and hydrangeas, offering both food and shelter to pollinators.

Historical Significance of The Land

According to Saint Paul Natural Resources, who manages this site, the valley in which the park is located was once home to the Mdwakanton Dakota and was used for hunting, fishing and harvesting of wild. Settlers began living in the area around 1840 and Edmund Rice built his first railroad in 1853. You can learn more in SPRB’s PDF Publication, History of the Trout Brook Valley.

Useful Links:

• Find a map of Trout Brook Nature Sanctuary Here.
• Register for St. Paul Parks Events and Activities