Gnome Scavenger Hunt
Another year, another #Gnomevasion!! The Gnomes settled in our park spaces again, but our parks & rec crew have teamed up to help you hone in on their locations.
This popular gnome scavenger hunt has gnome seekers solving clues and exploring Saint Paul parks to find them. Participants share selfies with the Gnome and use hashtag #stpgnometakeover (careful not to give away the location in the photo!)
The Gnomes are hidden in some of Saint Paul's best places to take a winter hike or walk. This is a fun activity for all ages and a great opportunity to get out and about in the beautiful cold-weather season. Can you find the whole Gnome family?
2025-2026 Gnome Clues
- Solve the clues
- Seek out the Gnomes
- Take a selfie and post using #stpgnometakeover
- NEW FOR THIS YEAR! There are 8 Gnomes hiding in our Saint Paul parks. Each Gnome contains one letter of an 8-letter password. Once you've found all the Gnomes and deciphered the password, come to Griggs Recreation Center to relay the password and claim a prize! (Staff will be on-site Monday-Friday from 9:30am-6pm.)
- NOTE: While in previous years, the Gnome names were additional clues to their where-abouts, that is NOT the same this year. Each Gnome's name is just for fun, so enjoy those names as-is with no additional sleuthing needed. :-)
- Need some extra help? Message us on Facebook or Instagram.
Check back for a printable version of the clues coming soon!
| Gnome Name | Park Clue |
|---|---|
TILLY | Grab a companion and hit the course Bring a disc to fling with force. Play some tround or go for a stroll When you're at the end, come to the knoll. Ascend the steps, on the hillcrest you'll see A gnome in their home, on hole number three. |
OLAF | If the weather is cold and you're stuck inside I invite you to my hidey hide hole on the eastside. This is not a con, now come my way Pack a ball and cleats, so we can play. You really can't miss it, my humble home It's got a big, round roof and room to roam. |
BUMBLE | Although my home is split in between In a fort I reside with my family of 15. Cross the bridge to a sea of endless play Just flipping and tumbling to make the day. Right by the biggest tree you will see I am there disco dancing on my knee. |
CHUCK | In 2025 I got myself a new den big, shiny, and to the 10. My friend Carl and I spend our day With our pups as they run and play. Next to the flower bed, you will see All my luggage next to me. |
ROBYN | I reside where textbooks and exams are the final say With the best view I stand still and watch the world play. When the sun starts to say it's goodbye Mrs. Razskazoff whispers to me a gentle "hi". And when the park is finally closed Alan Uhlu and I roam the grounds and chat with our friends before they doze. |
FLINT | You can plant, you can sled, you can bike, walk or run. But while you're here you must say hello to my slimy green friend You may find us tucked in a corner attempting to blend. If you do find us, you must report it to the farm hand Minne Who's always "haha"ing when she tells people the skinny. |
ZIPPY | I guard a classroom with no walls at all Where trees are the teachers and leaves gently fall. Near an old path once traveled by rattling wheels A bridge tells tales that the quiet still feels. Beneath old oaks where tall grasses sway A hideen trail curves just out of the way. Find where the sunlight and shadows meet There a small Gnome waits, quiet and discreet. |
GRIZZLE | Wondering where I can be found? Climb in your car and go downtown. You'll need to go beneath a big bridge Stop the car and walk a smidge. My own little isle right on the river Take in the views, they're sure to deliver. Bring your own snack before you bound Despite the name there's no fruit to be found. |