Off Leash Dog Park

Are you a dog owner in the Twin Cities area looking for a fantastic spot where your canine companion can run free, make new friends, and burn off some energy? Look no further than the Off Leash Dog Park, more commonly known as High Bridge Dog Park, located right here in St. Paul, Minnesota. This beloved local gem provides a safe, expansive, and engaging environment for dogs of all sizes and their human companions. It’s a place where tails wag freely, laughter echoes, and community connections are forged, all against the backdrop of the beautiful Mississippi River area.

High Bridge Dog Park stands out as a premier destination for dog lovers. Spanning a generous 7 acres, this off-leash facility offers plenty of room for pups to explore, chase, and play. The park's commitment to cleanliness and a friendly atmosphere is often highlighted by its visitors, making it a reliable choice for a fun outing with your furry family member. As one satisfied visitor put it, “Nice park. Several dogs there, our girl had fun meeting the others. Didn't see any untended dog droppings, so that was nice. People were friendly and we chatted while the kids played. Good park!” This sentiment perfectly captures the welcoming and well-maintained environment you can expect at High Bridge Dog Park.

Originally the site of a former coal power plant, this area was thoughtfully transformed into a vibrant dog park after a thorough clean-up in May 2012. This remarkable conversion was made possible through a land-use agreement with Xcel Energy/NSP-Minnesota, and the City of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department proudly operates and maintains this valuable community asset. Its history as an industrial site gives it a unique, open feel, now repurposed for the joy and exercise of local dogs.

Location and Accessibility

High Bridge Dog Park is conveniently situated at 200 Wilkin St, St Paul, MN 55102, USA. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible for residents across St. Paul and the surrounding communities. The park is nestled just south of Shepard Road, west of Upper Landing, north of the Mississippi River, and distinctively, right beneath the iconic Smith Avenue High Bridge. This landmark provides a clear point of reference and adds to the park's scenic appeal.

Accessing the park is straightforward. If you’re approaching from Shepard Road, whether traveling southwest or northeast, you'll turn onto Randolph Avenue towards the river. Continue almost to the end of Randolph, and you’ll see the High Bridge above and a large parking lot on your left, marking the park's entrance. For those coming from Downtown or Upper Landing, you can access the trail near Chestnut Plaza (behind Anytime Fitness) and head west until you reach the High Bridge, with the park entrance and parking lot on your right. The main entrance to the park is located at the westernmost end, closest to the parking lot, featuring a swing gate that needs to be closed upon entering and exiting, ensuring the safety of all dogs within the enclosed space. While the High Bridge itself offers a grand view, it's important to note that direct access to the dog park is not from the bridge but via Shepard Road to Randolph Avenue. The readily available gravel parking lot ensures a hassle-free visit, although during peak times, it can get quite full.

Services Offered

• Off-Leash Play Area: The core service of High Bridge Dog Park is its expansive 7-acre off-leash area, providing ample space for dogs to run, play, and socialize freely without the constraint of a leash.
• Separated Small Dog Area: For the comfort and safety of smaller, more timid, or frail dogs, there is a designated, separately fenced area. This thoughtful feature allows smaller breeds to play without being overwhelmed by larger, more boisterous dogs, ensuring a positive experience for all.
• Waste Disposal Stations: The park is equipped with Mutt Mitt waste disposal stations and trash containers, encouraging owners to clean up after their pets and maintain the park's cleanliness. While often stocked, it’s always a good idea for visitors to bring their own bags as a backup.
• Parking: A dedicated gravel parking lot is available for visitors, making it convenient to transport your dog and their gear to and from the park.
• Benches and Seating: Throughout the park, you’ll find benches and picnic tables, offering comfortable spots for owners to relax, observe their dogs, and socialize with other dog enthusiasts.
• Information Kiosk: At the entrance, an information kiosk (sometimes described as a mailbox) provides helpful information and, occasionally, extra poop bags for those who might need them.
• Porta-Potty: For the convenience of human visitors, a porta-potty is typically located near the main entrance of the large dog area.

Features / Highlights

• Seven-Acre Enclosed Space: The sheer size of High Bridge Dog Park is one of its biggest advantages, offering a vast, fully fenced area that gives dogs plenty of room to roam securely.
• Mix of Terrain: The park features a varied landscape, including a long strip of mostly wood mulch in the large dog area, along with some natural areas. The small dog area is described as grassy with newly planted shade trees and a woodsy strip, providing diverse environments for play.
• Scenic Views: Located along the Mississippi River and directly beneath the impressive High Bridge, the park offers stunning views of the Saint Paul skyline and the surrounding natural beauty, making it a pleasant experience for both dogs and their owners.
• Community Atmosphere: As noted by visitors, the park fosters a friendly and welcoming community. Dog owners often chat and connect while their pets play, creating a positive social environment.
• Dedicated Small Dog Area: The presence of a separate, fenced-off section for small dogs is a significant highlight, demonstrating the park's consideration for the needs of all dog sizes and temperaments.
• Former Industrial Site Reimagined: The park's unique history as a reclaimed coal power plant site adds an interesting dimension, showcasing urban renewal and environmental clean-up efforts.
• Accessibility Features: While not fully detailed, ongoing discussions and plans for improvements at High Bridge Dog Park include improving access, accessibility (including ADA accessible areas), and functionality, suggesting a commitment to making the park welcoming for all users.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a public facility operated by the City of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department, High Bridge Dog Park primarily focuses on providing a free and accessible space for dog owners. Therefore, traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense are not typically offered. The main "offer" is the availability of a well-maintained, spacious, and safe off-leash environment for the community to enjoy.

However, the park's ongoing maintenance and planned improvements can be seen as continuous benefits to its users. For instance, discussions around improvements include proposals for new paved parking, updated entryways with double-gated entries, potential new shelters, and even the addition of agility features. These are not one-time promotions but rather an investment in the long-term quality and appeal of the park, ensuring it remains a top choice for dog owners in the region.

It is always advisable to check the official City of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation website or contact them directly for any updates regarding park hours, temporary closures (e.g., for bridge work or high river levels), or specific guidelines that might enhance your visit. While there aren't "buy one get one free" deals, the value comes from the well-managed public space itself.

Contact Information

• Address: High Bridge Dog Park, 200 Wilkin St, St Paul, MN 55102, USA
• Phone: (651) 266-6400 (City of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Customer Service)
• Email: ParksCustomerService@ci.stpaul.mn.us (for general inquiries and permits)

Customer service hours for the Parks and Recreation Department are typically Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Minnesota, particularly those in the St. Paul area, High Bridge Dog Park is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its ample 7-acre, fully-fenced design provides a secure and spacious environment, crucial for allowing dogs to exercise and socialize off-leash without concerns about them wandering off. This is a significant relief for dog owners who prioritize their pet's safety and freedom.

Secondly, the park's distinct areas, including a separate, fenced section for smaller or timid dogs, demonstrate a thoughtful approach to accommodating the diverse needs of the canine community. This inclusive design ensures that every dog, regardless of size or temperament, can enjoy a positive and stress-free experience.

Furthermore, the positive community feedback, highlighting friendly people and well-behaved dogs, speaks volumes about the atmosphere you can expect. It's a place where local dog owners can not only provide enrichment for their pets but also build connections with fellow community members who share their passion. The collective effort of owners in cleaning up after their dogs, as noted in reviews, also contributes to the park's overall cleanliness and pleasantness, making it a truly inviting space.

Its convenient location near major roadways and within the vibrant landscape of St. Paul, including scenic views of the Mississippi River and the High Bridge, adds to its appeal, making it an easy and enjoyable outing. While High Bridge Dog Park doesn't offer commercial "deals," its value lies in providing a well-maintained, free, and accessible public space that significantly enhances the quality of life for local dog owners and their beloved companions. It truly is a cornerstone for the dog-loving community in St. Paul, offering an invaluable resource for exercise, socialization, and pure joy.