Marthaler Park

The hill at Marthaler Park is not an official sledding hill. Those using the hill to sled do so at their own risk and are responsible for determining safe conditions. Please be considerate of others. 

About Marthaler Park

Park History

Marthaler Park is named after the Marthaler family, who have a long history in the city. Jacob J. and Regina Marthaler, who came to West St. Paul in 1852. They built a small log cabin near Oakdale and Marie. Jacob was part of the effort to break away from South St. Paul and form West St. Paul. Later, "Jake" Marthaler, grandson of Jacob, would serve the city for over 35 years as a council member and city treasurer.

The park is the site of the former Lothenbach farm and grove, purchased by Balthazar and Frances Lothenbach in 1889. In later years, a dance pavilion was built in the grove and motorcycle races were held on the hill.

In 1971, the city opened a short-lived municipal ski hill at the park, complete with a tow rope and rustic 'chalet'. The ski hill and tow rope were removed in 1980 due to rising costs and liability insurance premiums, but the concrete base of the tow rope remains at the top of the hill. 

Recent Improvements

• 2018-2019: Lower Marthaler (north) improvements, including playground, basketball, volleyball, parking, and stormwater management.
• 2021: Expansion of the River to River Greenway
• 2023-2024: Upper Marthaler (south) improvements, including playground, bathroom, parking, trail, pavilion, and stormwater management.

To learn more, visit Marthaler Park Improvement Project page.

Pavilion Rental

The large pavilion on the park's southern end, between the south parking lot and playground, is available for rental or use on a first-come, first-served basis. Those with rental permits are granted exclusive rights to the facility during their rental period.

• Capacity: Approximately 80 people seated
• Tables: 8 under pavilion, 3 adjacent to the pavilion
• Amenities: Lighting, buffet/serving counter, electrical outlets, grills

The picnic shelter north of Marthaler Pond is not available for rental.

Check out available park reservation opportunities.