Webber Park

A Natural Oasis in the City

Tucked away in North Minneapolis, Webber Park spreads across 22 acres along Shingle Creek, offering a refreshing escape from urban life. A notable feature is the Webber Natural Swimming Pool - the first of its kind in the United States.

Opened in 2015, this innovative pool ditches the chlorine in favor of a biological filtration system that uses plants and microbes to keep the water clean. Pretty cool, right? The swimming area features a wading section, lap pool, and a regeneration basin where the natural purification happens, all surrounded by sandy beaches and grassy spots well-suited for lounging.

When winter rolls around, the pool area transforms into a cozy warming house for ice skating and hockey enthusiasts.

Natural Swimming Pool Experience

Worth noting about this natural pool - it's completely free. Using a marshland filtration system similar to those found across Europe, it was among the first chemical-free swimming facilities in the country.

The pool varies in depth, with some deeper areas where your feet might not touch the bottom. Fair warning - this isn't your typical swimming experience. The natural filtration creates a slightly slimy pool bottom from algae, and you might notice a unique herbal scent from the purification plants.

Don't worry though - attentive lifeguards are always on duty to keep everyone safe. During those hot summer days when everyone has the same idea, be prepared for capacity limits with a first-come, first-served policy.

Recreation Facilities

Swimming isn't the only thing to do here. The park houses a recreation center complete with air conditioning, a kitchen, computer lab, craft room, and multipurpose spaces for community gatherings.

If you're looking to stretch your legs, walking and biking trails wind through gardens and public art installations. Sports more your thing? You can find tennis and basketball courts and fields for various activities.

The playgrounds are a hit with families, featuring modern equipment for both toddlers and older kids on a sand base. Hungry after all that activity? Picnic areas with plenty of tables and benches are scattered within the park, making it perfect for an outdoor meal.

Clean restrooms are conveniently located near the pool and at other spots around the park.

Natural Features

Beyond the swimming pool, the park reveals its natural charm through beautiful walking trails that follow Shingle Creek. If you explore a bit, you'll discover a lovely waterfall along the creek - think of it as a mini version of Minnehaha Falls.

The trails eventually make their way toward the Mississippi River if you're up for a longer adventure. Dog owners will appreciate that their four-legged friends are welcome here, with many locals making the pathways part of their daily dog-walking routine.

Ongoing Development

Webber Park hasn't been standing still. Since a master plan kicked off in 2011, it's seen significant renovations including new pathways and, of course, that innovative natural pool.

Construction continues to improve the park's amenities and accessibility. The park's sustainable features reflect an approach to eco-friendly urban recreation.

You might occasionally find some trails closed for maintenance, but that's just part of keeping this neighborhood retreat in top shape for years to come.