The Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a collection of five connected or closely linked lakes surrounded by parks, paved trails, beaches, and green spaces. Located in the city’s southwest area, this popular outdoor destination offers a refreshing escape for walking, biking, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and enjoying the scenery.
The five lakes in the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Regional Park are Bde Maka Ska, Lake of the Isles, Lake Harriet, Cedar Lake, and Brownie Lake. Each has its own character, from the lively waterfront at Bde Maka Ska to the quieter natural surroundings of Brownie Lake. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board manages the regional park and its surrounding recreational spaces.
Whether you’re visiting Minneapolis for the first time or planning a relaxed afternoon outdoors, the Chain of Lakes offers plenty of ways to enjoy the city beyond its downtown streets.
What Is the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes?
The Minneapolis Chain of Lakes is a regional park area that brings together five prominent lakes and the parkland around them. It forms part of the city’s Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway, a broader network of parks, parkways, and trails.
The area is popular with residents and visitors because it combines outdoor recreation with easy access to Minneapolis neighborhoods. You can walk around a lake, cycle between several waterfronts, relax on a beach, or spend time watching sailboats and wildlife.
The five lakes are:
- Bde Maka Ska: The largest of the five and a major destination for boating, swimming, and cycling.
- Lake of the Isles: Known for its landscaped shoreline, walking paths, and off-leash dog park.
- Lake Harriet: A favorite for waterfront walks, beach visits, and summer concerts.
- Cedar Lake: A popular spot for swimming, fishing, picnics, and outdoor recreation.
- Brownie Lake: A smaller lake with a quieter atmosphere near the northern end of the chain.
Although the lakes are grouped into one regional park, they aren’t all directly connected by navigable waterways. Channels link several of them, while Lake Harriet remains separate from the connected canoe and kayak route.
The Five Lakes in the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes
Bde Maka Ska
Bde Maka Ska is the largest lake in the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes and one of the city’s best-known outdoor destinations. Its name comes from the Dakota language and is commonly translated as “White Earth Lake.” The lake was formerly known as Lake Calhoun before its official name changed in 2018.
The surrounding park offers a mix of water activities, sports facilities, and places to relax. Three designated beaches—32nd Street Beach, North Beach, and Thomas Beach—provide swimming opportunities when conditions and seasonal operations allow.
Popular activities include:
- Walking or cycling the approximately three-mile lakeside loop.
- Swimming at designated beaches.
- Renting a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or other watercraft when available.
- Fishing from designated shoreline areas and piers.
- Playing volleyball or enjoying a picnic in the park.
Bde Maka Ska is a great starting point if you want to experience the lively side of Minneapolis’s lake culture.
Lake of the Isles
Lake of the Isles offers a quieter atmosphere than Bde Maka Ska, with landscaped shorelines, residential streets, and attractive views across the water.
Its walking and cycling paths make it a pleasant place for a morning exercise session or an unhurried afternoon stroll. The lake is also known for its islands and the fenced, off-leash dog park on its southern side.
Things to do here include:
- Walk the roughly 2.6-mile lakeside path.
- Enjoy views of the water and surrounding homes.
- Watch birds and other wildlife.
- Paddle a canoe or kayak where permitted.
- Visit the dog park if you’re traveling with a dog and meet its permit requirements.
Lake of the Isles is particularly appealing if you prefer a peaceful setting over a busy beach or large gathering area.
Lake Harriet
Lake Harriet combines outdoor recreation with cultural attractions. The lake is especially known for its Bandshell, a waterfront venue associated with Minneapolis’s summer concert and movie programs.
The surrounding park includes beaches, picnic areas, walking and biking paths, a fishing pier, and a playground. Lyndale Park Gardens and the nearby Roberts Bird Sanctuary provide additional reasons to explore the area.
You can spend your visit:
- Walking the approximately 2.75-mile pedestrian path.
- Relaxing at North Beach or Southeast Beach.
- Attending a scheduled performance at the Bandshell.
- Enjoying a picnic or exploring nearby gardens.
- Fishing from designated shoreline areas.
- Renting a boat or bicycle when seasonal services are operating.
Lake Harriet is an especially good option for a relaxed family outing or an evening walk. Check event schedules separately if attending a concert or movie is part of your plan.
Cedar Lake
Cedar Lake offers a blend of sandy beaches, wooded surroundings, and trails. It is a good choice if you want to spend time near the water without the busier atmosphere associated with some of Minneapolis’s larger recreational areas.
The lake has three designated beaches: East Beach, Point Beach, and South Beach. Its park also includes a fishing pier, picnic areas, walking trails, and a canoe launch.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Swimming at designated beaches when open.
- Walking and cycling around the lake.
- Fishing from permitted shoreline locations.
- Canoeing and kayaking.
- Picnicking among the surrounding trees.
Cedar Lake is also connected to nearby lakes by waterways, making it relevant to paddlers planning a longer outing. Check route conditions and restrictions before attempting to travel between lakes.
Brownie Lake
Brownie Lake is the smallest and northernmost lake in the Chain of Lakes. Its wooded slopes and comparatively quiet setting make it an appealing destination for visitors who want a break from the busier waterfronts.
The lake has walking and cycling paths and a canoe launch. Unlike the larger recreational lakes nearby, motorized watercraft are not permitted on Brownie Lake. Canoes and kayaks are allowed under the park’s rules.
Things to do include:
- Take a quiet walk along the lakeside paths.
- Explore the surrounding wooded scenery.
- Enjoy canoeing or kayaking.
- Observe the natural environment.
- Connect with nearby trails for a longer outdoor excursion.
Brownie Lake is a good option for paddlers and nature enthusiasts who value a less developed setting.
Best Things to Do at the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes
The Chain of Lakes works well for both active adventures and leisurely afternoons. You can concentrate on one lake or combine several activities during a longer visit.
Walk, run, or bike the lakeside trails
The regional park features extensive pedestrian and bicycle trails along its lakes and connecting parkways. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board lists approximately 14.8 miles of pedestrian trails and 15.3 miles of bike trails across the regional park. These totals cover the wider park area rather than a single continuous loop.
The paths are popular with walkers, runners, cyclists, and families. You can complete a loop around one lake or plan a longer ride that connects several waterfronts.
Keep in mind that designated bike paths and pedestrian paths may run separately. Follow posted signs and give other trail users room to pass.
Swim at designated beaches
Swimming is one of the main summer attractions at the Chain of Lakes. Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Cedar Lake have designated beaches, although access and operating schedules vary.
Before swimming, check beach notices and water-quality advisories. Avoid entering the water when a beach is closed or an advisory warns against swimming.
Go kayaking or canoeing
Paddling offers a different perspective on Minneapolis’s lakes. You can explore the shoreline, pass through permitted channels, and enjoy views of the surrounding parkland.
Several lakes are connected by channels, making it possible to paddle between some of them. However, this isn’t a simple route for every visitor. Currents, shallow sections, and other water conditions may require experience and careful planning.
Lake Harriet is not connected to the same navigable chain because of the elevation difference between it and Bde Maka Ska. If you’re new to paddling, start with a shorter outing on one lake rather than attempting a multi-lake journey.
Enjoy a picnic or family outing
The parks around the lakes offer grassy areas, picnic spaces, playgrounds, and places to sit beside the water.
Bde Maka Ska is a useful choice for families who want several recreation options in one area. Lake Harriet is another good option, with its playground, beaches, and Bandshell surroundings.
Bring drinking water, sun protection, and any food or supplies you’ll need. Check posted rules before using grills or reserving a picnic space.
Watch the sunset
The lakes provide attractive views at sunrise and sunset, particularly when the sky reflects across the water.
Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet are popular places to enjoy the evening light. Lake of the Isles is another appealing choice if you’d prefer a quieter walk.
Arrive early enough to find parking or a comfortable spot along the shoreline. Remember that sunset times change throughout the year.
Fish in the city
Fishing is available at several lakes in the chain. Depending on the lake, anglers may catch species such as largemouth bass, northern pike, crappie, bluegill, and walleye.
Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet both have fishing piers, while Cedar Lake and other lakes provide additional shoreline fishing opportunities.
Check Minnesota fishing regulations before you go. License requirements, seasons, and limits depend on the species and the circumstances of your trip.
A Simple One-Day Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Itinerary
If you have one day to explore, you don’t need to visit all five lakes in detail. Choosing two or three stops will leave more time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
| Time | Suggested activity |
| Morning | Walk or cycle around Bde Maka Ska |
| Late morning | Relax at a designated beach or enjoy a lakeside picnic |
| Early afternoon | Visit Lake of the Isles for a quieter walk |
| Midafternoon | Explore Cedar Lake or enjoy a paddling session |
| Evening | Head to Lake Harriet for a sunset walk |
This is a flexible suggestion rather than a fixed route. Adjust it according to your preferred activities, weather, mobility needs, and available facilities.
If you’re visiting during summer, consider checking whether seasonal rentals or scheduled Bandshell events fit your plans.
Best Time to Visit the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes
The Chain of Lakes is a year-round park destination, but the experience changes with the seasons.
- Spring: Enjoy warming weather, budding trees, and quieter walks. Conditions can be muddy in some areas.
- Summer: Swimming, kayaking, cycling, boating, and picnicking are popular. Beaches and rental services may operate seasonally.
- Fall: Cooler temperatures and changing leaves make the lakes attractive for walking, running, and photography.
- Winter: Depending on weather and conditions, visitors may enjoy walking, cross-country skiing, ice skating, or other seasonal recreation.
Summer is usually the best choice for visitors who want to swim or rent watercraft. Spring and fall can be more comfortable for longer walks and cycling.
Winter activities depend on ice and weather conditions. Never assume lake ice is safe to walk or skate on simply because the surface appears frozen.
Practical Tips for Visiting the Chain of Lakes
A little planning can make your visit easier, especially during busy summer weekends.
- Choose your starting lake. Bde Maka Ska is a practical option for visitors seeking several recreational amenities.
- Plan your transportation. You can reach the park by walking, cycling, driving, or using public transportation, depending on your starting point.
- Allow time for parking. Popular lakeside areas can be busy during warm weather.
- Check seasonal services. Watercraft rentals, concessions, beaches, and restrooms may have seasonal schedules.
- Follow trail signs. Keep to the appropriate path for walking, running, or cycling.
- Check water quality. Review beach advisories before swimming.
- Prepare for the weather. Bring suitable clothing, drinking water, and sun protection.
- Respect wildlife. Keep your distance from birds and other animals, and dispose of waste properly.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board lists developed park areas as generally open from 6 a.m. to midnight and undeveloped areas from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., subject to applicable rules and restrictions. Check the relevant park information before planning an early-morning or late-evening visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lakes are in the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes?
The Minneapolis Chain of Lakes has five main lakes: Bde Maka Ska, Lake of the Isles, Lake Harriet, Cedar Lake, and Brownie Lake.
Where is the Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis?
The Chain of Lakes is in southwest Minneapolis, Minnesota. Its lakes and surrounding parks form part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway.
Can you walk between the lakes?
Yes. Walking paths and connecting parkways allow visitors to explore multiple lakes on foot. Some sections pass through nearby streets or parkland, so plan your route according to the distance you want to cover.
Can you kayak between the Minneapolis lakes?
You can kayak between several of the lakes through connecting channels, subject to local rules and water conditions. Lake Harriet is not part of the same navigable chain. Paddlers should research the route, wear life jackets, and consider currents and their experience level before attempting a longer trip.
Which lake is best for swimming?
Bde Maka Ska and Cedar Lake are good options for designated beach recreation. Lake Harriet also has designated beaches. Check current beach operations and water-quality advisories before swimming.
Is the Chain of Lakes free to visit?
Access to the parkland generally does not require an entrance ticket. However, some services, parking arrangements, rentals, permits, and activities may involve fees.
Which lake is best for families?
Bde Maka Ska is a strong option because it offers beaches, playground facilities, picnic areas, and several recreational activities. Lake Harriet is another family-friendly choice, with beaches, a playground, and its Bandshell area.
Can you visit the Chain of Lakes in winter?
Yes. The parks and trails can be enjoyed in winter, depending on weather and conditions. Some activities and facilities operate seasonally, and lake ice should never be assumed safe without appropriate confirmation.
Conclusion
The Chain of Lakes Minneapolis is one of the city’s defining outdoor destinations, combining five distinctive lakes with extensive trails, beaches, parkland, and opportunities for recreation throughout the year.
Visit Bde Maka Ska for an active waterfront day, Lake Harriet for its Bandshell and family-friendly setting, Cedar Lake for beaches and wooded surroundings, Lake of the Isles for a peaceful walk, or Brownie Lake for quieter paddling.
Whichever lake you choose, plan around the activities you enjoy most and check local conditions before heading out.
Hello, I’m Oliver Whitmore, and I’ve spent years exploring Britain’s beautiful lakes as well as freshwater landscapes across Europe and beyond. I enjoy researching the history, geography, wildlife, and cultural significance of lakes, then turning that knowledge into practical, easy-to-understand articles.
I believe every lake tells a story, whether it’s shaped by ancient glaciers, surrounded by legends, or home to remarkable wildlife. Through my writing, I hope to help readers discover the beauty and importance of these natural wonders.
Books I’ve Written:
- Britain’s Hidden Lakes
- The Freshwater Explorer’s Handbook