Gnome Scavenger Hunt Returns to St. Paul Parks for Winter Enjoyable

Gnomes have as soon as once more taken up residence in St. Paul parks as town launches its annual winter scavenger hunt, inviting residents of all ages to discover native inexperienced areas through the cold-weather season.

The 2025–2026 Gnome Scavenger Hunt challenges members to resolve clues that make them hidden gnomes positioned all through parks throughout town. Organized by St. Paul Parks and Recreation, the occasion encourages outside exercise whereas highlighting scenic areas ultimate for winter walks and hikes.

Participants are requested to seek for the gnomes, snap a selfie as soon as they discover one and share the picture on social media utilizing the hashtag #stpgnometakeover, whereas taking care to not reveal the gnome’s actual location. Organizers emphasize that the hunt is supposed to be enjoyable and accessible, providing a family-friendly solution to keep lively throughout winter.

New this 12 months, eight gnomes are hidden all through the parks, every containing a single letter. When assembled, the letters type an eight-letter password. Participants who efficiently discover all of the gnomes and decode the password can go to Griggs Recreation Center to relay it and declare a prize. Staff can be obtainable on the heart Monday via Friday from 9:30 a.m. to six p.m.

Parks officers notice that, in contrast to earlier years, gnome names will not be clues to their areas and are included strictly for enjoyment. Additional assist is obtainable via town’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, and a printable model of the clues can be launched quickly.

More data is obtainable at stpaul.gov/news/gnome-scavenger-hunt.