Lakes in Minneapolis offer a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city in every season of the year.
Although the lakes are more popular in the summer, there are a lot of activities on these lakes during the winter months as well.
With so many lakes to choose from, there is sure to be one that suits your needs. Whether you are looking for a place to relax, paddle around, or fish, Minneapolis has a lake for you.
So, let’s explore more.
Introduction to Lakes in Minneapolis
When the weather warms up, and the snow starts to melt, Minneapolis comes alive with its many lakes. There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the water, from boating and fishing to swimming and sunbathing.
Looking for a summer escape in the city? Minneapolis is home to a number of beautiful lakes, perfect for a day of swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, or just enjoying the scenery.
No matter how you choose to enjoy them, Minneapolis lakes are a great way to beat the heat and enjoy some time outdoors.
As the leaves change color and the temperatures cool down, Minneapolis’s many lakes provide the perfect backdrop for a Fall day.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy at lakes in Minneapolis, from boating and fishing to hiking and picnicking. And, of course, no Fall day is complete without a walk around one of the city’s many scenic lakes.
Looking for winter activity in Minneapolis? Why not check out one of the city’s many lakes!
The lakes transform into beautiful landscapes covered in snow and ice in the winter. The cold weather doesn’t stop Minneapolitans from enjoying the lakes.
Many people think that they’re even more beautiful in the winter! If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Minneapolis in the winter, check out one of the city’s lakes.
Bde Maka Ska Lake
Bde Maka Ska is one of Minneapolis’s most popular lakes, and for a good reason. This beautiful lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, and simply enjoying the stunning scenery.
Bde Maka Ska is also a great place to paddleboard or kayak. There are plenty of rentals available if you don’t have your equipment.
This lake was originally known as Lake Calhoun until the city was renamed Bde Maka Ska in 2018. This name is a Dakota word meaning “white earth lake,” which is appropriate since the shores of this lake are mainly white sand.
Today, the lake is a popular fishing spot. It provides fishes like Eurasian carp, Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Northern pike, and Yellow perch.
With about 401 acres (160 hectares or so), Bde Maka Ska is the largest lake in Minneapolis.
Lake Hiawatha
Minneapolis is home to many beautiful lakes, perfect for a summer day outdoors. One of the most popular lakes in the city is Lake Hiawatha.
Visitors can enjoy various activities at the lake, including swimming, fishing, canoeing, and more.
Several walking and biking trails wind around the lake, making it a great place to get some exercise. And after exploring the lake, be sure to stop by one of the nearby restaurants or cafes for a bite to eat.
When the city purchased the lake in the 1920s, it was known as Rice Lake. The lake’s name celebrates Hiawatha, also known as Ayenwathaaa or Aiionwatha, who was a pre-colonial Native American leader.
Because it bears the name of one of the most famous Native Americans in history, Hiawatha is usually considered the most important lake in town.
Lake Nokomis
One of the most popular lakes in Minneapolis is Lake Nokomis. It is a beautiful lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Many trails around the lake are perfect for walking, running, or biking.
Lake Amelia was its original name. It was to honor Captain George Gooding’s daughter, Amelia. That was in the early 1800s.
About 100 years later, it gained its current name. Nokomis was the name of Hiawatha’s grandmother.
The lake has a depth of 33 ft (10 m) and an area of 204 acres (about 82 hectares).
Lake Harriet
Looking for a serene spot to relax in Minneapolis? Look no further than Lake Harriet!
This beautiful lake is perfect for a peaceful stroll, paddle boarding, or simply taking in the scenic view.
While you’re there, check out the bandstand – it’s a popular spot for concerts and performances in the summer months.
Brownie Lake
If you’re looking for a serene and scenic spot to enjoy the lakes in Minneapolis, look no further than Brownie Lake.
This lake is in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. It is a great place to relax and take in the area’s natural beauty.
There are plenty of benches around the lake to sit and enjoy the view, or you can take a stroll on the walking path that encircles it. Brownie Lake is also a popular spot for fishing, so don’t forget to bring your tackle!
Cedar Lake
Cedar Lake is right next to Brownie.
For sure, it’s one of the most popular lakes in Minneapolis, and for a good reason! This serene lake is perfect for a stroll or a rowdy volleyball game.
You can also take in the stunning views of downtown Minneapolis from the lake’s shoreline.
Lake of the Isles
There’s something special about Lake of the Isles. Maybe it’s how the sun glitters off the water or how the trees reflect on its still surface. Whatever the reason, this lake is one of Minneapolis’ most beloved spots.
Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities on and around Lake of the Isles. In the summer, paddleboarding and kayaking are popular pastimes. At the same time, ice skating and cross-country skiing are the perfect ways to enjoy the lake in the winter.
No matter what time of year it is, there’s always something to do at Lake of the Isles.
Powderhorn Lake
There’s something special about Powderhorn Lake. Maybe it’s how the sun glints off the water or how the trees reflect on its calm surface. Whatever it is, this Minneapolis lake is sure to please.
Powderhorn Lake is located in south Minneapolis and is one of the city’s most popular lakes.
It’s a great place to take a walk, go for a swim, or just relax and enjoy the scenery. There are also plenty of amenities nearby, including a playground, picnic tables, and a fishing pier.
Whether you’re looking for a serene spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city or a place to enjoy some outdoor fun, Powderhorn Lake is sure to please.
Lakes Near Minneapolis
Looking for a place to take a dip near Minneapolis? Check out one of the lakes in this section!
Lake Minnetonka, White Bear Lake, Lower Lake, and more lakes are around Minneapolis.
Because of the proximity to the city limits, Minneapolitans head out to enjoy the nearby lakes, especially the large ones.
So, here are some of the ones that we think you will like.
Lake Minnetonka
Minneapolis area is home to many beautiful lakes, but Lake Minnetonka is one of the most popular.
This lake is perfect for a summer day, with plenty of beaches to relax and activities to keep you busy.
From swimming and boating to fishing and hiking, there’s something for everyone at Lake Minnetonka.
The lake is about 15 miles southwest of the city.
White Bear Lake
If you’re looking for a beautiful lake to visit in the area, look no further than White Bear Lake.
This lake is perfect for any season, with plenty of room to swim, sunbathe, and picnic in the summer. There’s also a playground nearby for the kids, making it a great place to do a family outing.
White Bear Lake is about 20 miles northeast of Minneapolis.
Lake Como
Looking for a breathtaking lake to visit around Minneapolis? Then head over to Lake Como!
This lake is known for its clear water and beautiful scenery. You can spend your day swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying the view.
Lake Como is in Saint Paul, which is practically part of Minneapolis, as they are called Twin Cities.
Just to give you an idea, Lake Como is only about 4 miles away from the Como neighborhood of Minneapolis!
Yeah, right?
Medicine Lake
Medicine Lake is one of the many lakes in the Minneapolis area that offers various activities for residents and visitors alike.
From fishing and swimming to boating and hiking, there is something for everyone at Medicine Lake.
This lake is also a great place to relax and take in the area’s natural beauty. Medicine Lake is the perfect spot to unwind after a long week with its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere.
Although in Hennepin County, the lake is shared by several towns, including the independent municipality of the same name.
It’s about 10 miles west of Minneapolis.
Eagle Lake
Eagle Lake is one of the most popular lakes in Minneapolis. It’s within two parks, and it’s a great place to go for a walk, run, or bike ride.
There are also plenty of places to eat and drink near the lake in the summer season.
If you’re looking for a place to cool off on a hot day, Eagle Lake is the perfect spot.
The water is clean and clear, and there’s a beach area where you can relax in the sun. There are also plenty of options for fishing, boating, and paddleboarding.
Eagle Lake is in Maple Grove. It’s about 15 miles northwest of Minneapolis.
Twin Lake
About 12 miles north of Minneapolis is Twin Lake. Surrounded by independent towns, the lake is a perfect getaway.
There’s something special about swimming in this lake. The water is usually clean and clear, and a sense of tranquility comes from being surrounded by nature.
Minneapolis is lucky to have many beautiful lakes, and Twin Lake is one of the best nearby.
Lake Johanna
If you’re looking for a serene and beautiful lake to relax by in the Minneapolis area, look no further than Lake Johanna.
This lake is perfect for a picnic lunch or a stroll, and its picturesque setting is sure to please.
Lake Johanna is in Arden Hills, which is about 10 miles northeast of Minneapolis.
With Tony Schmidt Regional Park on one side and the lake on the other, you’re bound to enjoy yourself!
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed reading about the lakes in Minneapolis! As you can see, there are many options for recreation and relaxation in this beautiful city.
Minneapolis has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a place to take a scenic stroll or paddle around in a kayak.
So get out there and enjoy all that these lovely lakes offer!
Tom Larson is a traveler in Minnesota. He writes for Caravanzers about Minnesota, fishing, and the outdoors.