Gooseberry Mound Park

If you are looking for a cozy corner of nature on the state line, then Gooseberry Mound Park is an excellent choice. This spacious recreation area is located in Moorhead but is inextricably linked with the city of Fargo, forming a single leisure space for residents and visitors of the USA. The park's main feature is its picturesque location along the banks of the Red River.

The park is a blend of wide green lawns and dense woodlands. One of the most interesting features is the wooden lift bridge, which connects this site with the popular Lindenwood Park in the neighboring state. This makes the area ideal for those who enjoy long walks without being restricted to a single location.

An atmosphere of peace and harmony prevails here, emphasized by mighty old trees and well-maintained paths. Gooseberry Mound Park is highly popular due to its versatility: it is equally suited for quiet morning jogs and lively family picnics on the weekends.

For more details before your visit, you can use the official contact information for the park administration. Please note that the park is managed by the City of Moorhead Parks and Recreation Department.

Below is the current contact information and the exact location on the map:

Fans of active recreation will certainly find plenty to do here. High-quality paved paths run through the park, perfect for cycling, rollerblading, or leisurely strolls. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, there is a dedicated mountain bike trail, and in winter, the park transforms into a great spot for cross-country skiing and fat biking.

For children, there is a true play wonderland. A huge modern playground with numerous slides and climbing frames is complemented by a unique natural maze. This space was specifically created to stimulate a child's imagination and engage them in creative outdoor play. Meanwhile, adults can relax in the shade of century-old trees or enjoy an open-air lunch.

If you follow the forest trails, you will discover magnificent panoramic views of the Red River — a perfect spot for memorable photos. Additionally, the park features a large covered shelter with picnic tables and all necessary amenities, which can be reserved for family celebrations or gatherings with friends during the warm season.

Reaching this scenic spot is easy, as it is located in close proximity to Interstate 94 (I-94). If you are traveling by car from central Fargo, the drive will take only about 5–10 minutes. Follow the signs toward 22nd Ave S in Moorhead, where convenient parking is provided directly within the park grounds.

For those who prefer walking or eco-friendly transport, there is a unique way to enter the park. You can leave your car at Lindenwood Park on the North Dakota side and cross the wooden lift bridge that connects the two cities and their recreation areas. This is an excellent pedestrian or cycling route offering beautiful river views.

Public transportation is also an accessible option. The MATBUS bus network connects various districts of the Twin Cities. You can take routes heading toward the southern part of Moorhead and get off at stops near the park. From the stop, it is just a short walk to the entrance of Gooseberry Mound Park. Alternatively, you can always use local taxi services or ride-sharing apps.

The history of this area dates back to the middle of the last century, although the first documented evidence in the form of aerial photographs appeared as early as 1939. Those old images show that agricultural land once occupied the site of the modern park; however, the tree line along the Red River has remained virtually unchanged to this day, highlighting the natural continuity of the site.

The active development of Gooseberry Mound Park began in the mid-20th century when Moorhead city authorities decided to transform the riverside area into a public recreation space. The main goal was to preserve the natural landscape while creating comfortable infrastructure for residents. Over time, the park became a key link in the riverside recreation system, connecting with parks in the neighboring city.

In recent decades, the park has been continuously updated with modern playgrounds and specialized bike trails. Despite all the changes, Gooseberry Mound retains its original spirit as a peaceful forest corner, serving as a reminder of the importance of preserving nature amidst urban growth.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of this place, a typical visitor will need 1 to 3 hours. If your goal is simply a short walk along the river or a quick look at the surroundings from the bridge, you can manage in an hour. However, the park encourages a more leisurely pace.

Families with children planning to spend time at the large playground and have a picnic should set aside half a day. Active travelers wishing to explore not only the territory of Gooseberry Mound but also the neighboring park connected by the bridge will also appreciate the chance to spend several hours here, alternating walking with relaxing in the shade of ancient trees.

The park is ready to welcome guests daily throughout the year. Official operating hours are set from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Sunday, allowing you to plan everything from morning walks to sunset gatherings.

Despite the fixed schedule, it is recommended to check the city's official website or the parks department page before visiting. Depending on the season or special events, access times to certain areas (such as rentable pavilions) may vary.

A visit to Gooseberry Mound Park can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites in the area. Since the park is located on the border of two states, tourists have many opportunities for cultural and active leisure within a radius of just a few kilometers.

Exploring the historic center and modern art installations will allow you to deeper experience the region's atmosphere and make your trip more rewarding. Below is a list of the most notable attractions located nearby: