Cherokee Regional Park — Attraction in Saint Paul

Cherokee Regional Park, nestled along the Mississippi River bluffs in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a stunning 100-acre oasis that perfectly blends natural beauty with family-friendly amenities. I recently visited this park, walked the trails and was blown away by its serene atmosphere and diverse offerings, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. The park’s standout feature is its breathtaking views of the Mississippi River Valley and the St. Paul skyline, especially from the High Bridge Overlook. I found myself captivated by the panoramic vistas, particularly during sunset when the city lights began to twinkle against the river’s backdrop. The 1.3-mile Cherokee Regional Trail, which winds through the park, is well-maintained and ADA-accessible, offering a gentle walk with glimpses of wildlife like deer and native birds. The trail connects to other regional paths, making it ideal for hikers and bikers looking to explore further. The playground, revamped in 2019, is a hit with kids, featuring a 24-foot “sky tower” climbing structure with a tornado slide and a whimsical crooked house for younger children. However, some parents might find the playground better suited for older kids, as the towering structure can feel intimidating for ages 3-8. My family enjoyed the swings and monkey bars, but I noticed the lack of shade in some areas, so sunscreen is a must on sunny days. For gatherings, the park offers two shelters (one seating 60, the other 100) with electricity, perfect for picnics or events. I attended a barbecue at the large pavilion, which was spacious and clean, with nearby BBQ grills and picnic tables enhancing the experience. The park’s open spaces and sports facilities, including tennis and basketball courts, add to its versatility. While the park is generally pristine, some areas could use minor maintenance, like the unfinished concrete walk near the playground. Parking is plentiful, and the proximity to Dakota sacred sites like Bdote adds cultural depth, though I’d love to see more interpretive signage about this history. Overall, Cherokee Regional Park is a fantastic destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat with urban convenience. Its scenic trails, vibrant playground, and community-friendly amenities make it a St. Paul treasure. I’d give it 4.5 out of 5 stars—highly recommend for a day of...

A very beautiful area. The first time we were there (2018) we sat on a blanket in the middle of all the trees and it was wonderful. Second time there (2019) we sat on the wooden swing on top of the hill. Third time (2020) we just walked on the path for a little. This isn't necessarily a park for gorgeous views of the river (although we did come across one,pictured), but it is a great park to hang out at..clearly we think so since we've been there once a year! Plus, there's a lot of open space so even if you were with a group of people you'd still be able to be pretty far away from other people. There's a playground and a...

Cherokee Park in St. Paul is absolutely stunning especially in the fall when the colors start to change.

The trail runs along side a bluff, below you can see Lilydale Regional Park & the river through the trees. There are many off path trails you can take as well as shown in my photos.

Parking is plentiful & accessible.

There is a large picnic area with a large Pavillion & a small one. Public toilets, tennis courts, basketball courts & a large play ground.

It's in a very quiet neighborhood & it's never too crowded. A great place to take a gentle walk as the trails rarely...