The park was planted in 1876-1877 and it lies partly in the steep slope of the country. At the top of the plateau is a pond with ducks and sometimes even swans. The dam is a remnant of the moat around Kärnan.
In 1889, Sweden's only natural salt water source was found in the park and it is still in use. The source was named Sofia source after Queen Sofia.
The vegetation in the park is rich and diverse. When it comes to unusual trees, the park looks almost like a botanical garden and here is a tree trail to follow.
Over the years, many changes have been made to the park, but its present appearance got the park after the 1950s. Then they planted rhododendrons, azaleas, witch hazel and more in connection with the Sofia source. The plantings have been expanded over time and together with other vegetation create a beautiful entrance to the center. A large and beautiful Siberian cork tree is found on the slope just below the Sofia fountain.