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Plan the Perfect Minneapolis Lake Day at the Chain of Lakes
A nature lover’s visit to Minneapolis isn’t complete without enjoying a lake day at one of the five beautiful bodies of water that comprise the Chain of Lakes. While the Chain of Lakes is notably the most popular destination within the Minneapolis park system, the staggering amount of shoreline in the regional park means you’ll always be able to find a spot of waterfront nature to call your own. Use this guide to pick one lake to thoroughly explore for the day, or choose a few destinations to hop around from sunrise to sunset.
What’s So Special about Minneapolis’s Chain of Lakes Regional Park?
The Chain of Lakes—comprised of Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, Brownie Lake, and Cedar Lake—features over 1555 acres of public land within Minneapolis city limits. The story of the Chain of Lakes began in 1911 when Minneapolis parks pioneer Theodore Wirth oversaw the connection of Bde Maka Ska (then known as Lake Calhoun) with Lake of the Isles via a manufactured canal. Cedar Lake was connected to the chain in 1913, sparking a canoeing trend in the Twin Cities. Thanks to the lush parkland surrounding the lakes, the park has been described as “a necklace of diamonds in settings of emerald,” and it remains a jewel of the city today.
General Activities to Enjoy Throughout the Chain of Lakes
Strolling, Rolling, and Biking
With over 13 miles of pedestrian trails and another 15 miles of bike trails, taking in the lakes in the Chain of Lakes on foot or wheels is popular among locals and visitors. Whether you pedal the entire loop to get in your cardio or use the trails to find the ultimate Minneapolis photo op, the pedestrian and biking trails are a fun (and free!) way to take in some of the best views Minneapolis has to offer. (Need some wheels? Plenty of bike rental options are available throughout the city, making it easy to start your two-wheeled adventure.)
Enjoy a Designated Swimming Spot
Several Chain of Lakes beaches provide easy access to the water for wading, swimming, and splashing. Bde Maka Ska features three (32nd Street Beach, North Beach, and Thomas Beach), Lake Harriet offers two (North Beach and Southeast Beach), and Cedar Lake is home to another three (East Beach, Point Beach, and South Beach). Be sure to follow all posted rules and beach advisory notices, which can be found on the Minneapolis Parks website.
Get On the Water
Canoe, kayak, bike, boat, and paddle board rentals are offered through Wheel Fun Rentals. Boat launches are available northeast of Bde Maka Ska and east of the Bandshell at Lake Harriet. Yes, it is possible to kayak between most of the lakes in the Chain of Lakes! The lakes are connected by a series of channels that allow boaters to travel from one lake to the next (Lake Harriet was never officially connected to the chain due to a seven-foot elevation difference that would have required locks). It’s important to note that kayaking between the lakes requires some skill and experience, as there may be some rapids and currents to navigate. Additionally, it’s essential to follow all safety guidelines and wear appropriate safety gear, such as life jackets. Plan ahead and research the route before setting out on your adventure!
Watch the Sunrise or Sunset
Photographers (and all lovers of natural beauty) flock to the shores of the Chain of Lakes for some of the best sunset views in Minneapolis. South Harriet and East Bde Maka Ska are especially notable spots, but you can enjoy the light show from any lake location with a clear view of the sky.
