Swede Hollow Park

A Hidden Valley in the City

Swede Hollow Park is a unique 25-acre green space located in the Dayton's Bluff district of Saint Paul, Minnesota. The park is situated in a deep ravine, approximately 150 feet below the surrounding urban landscape, creating a secluded natural environment within the heart of the city.

Rich Immigrant History

The area has a rich history dating back centuries. It was originally inhabited by Dakota people before European settlers arrived. In the 1860s, Swedish immigrants began settling in the hollow, giving it the name "Svenska Dalen" or Swede Hollow.

Over time, the area became home to various immigrant communities, including Italians, Irish, Poles, and Mexicans. Some remnants of the area's past, such as old building foundations, can still be found within the park.

Natural Features

The park features a natural corridor following Phalen Creek, which runs through the center of the hollow. Dense vegetation and mature trees line the steep slopes, providing habitat for wildlife and creating a sense of wilderness within the city.

The park's unique geography makes it an ideal place for urban residents to enjoy nature and escape the noise of daily life. Part of Phalen Creek, which had been diverted into a storm sewer, was "daylighted" to create pools that attract wildlife.

Recreation Opportunities

Visitors can explore the park via hiking and biking trails, including a section of the Bruce Vento Regional Trail that runs along the western edge of the hollow on a former railway line.

Preservation Efforts

The park underwent significant restoration efforts in the 1970s, transforming it from a neglected area into a nature preserve. The restoration of the park was a community effort, involving local organizations and the Saint Paul Garden Club.

In recent years, efforts have been made to install interpretive signage throughout the park to educate visitors about its rich history and the various immigrant communities that once called it home.