The Chain of Lakes is the heart of outdoor Minneapolis. Brownie Lake, Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet sit in a connected necklace in the southwest of the city, circled by paths for walkers and bikers and linked by parkways that are part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board lists roughly fifteen miles each of pedestrian and bike trails, five beaches, gardens including Lyndale Park Gardens and the Roberts Bird Sanctuary, a bandshell on Lake Harriet that hosts the Music and Movies in the Parks series, and canoe, kayak, bike and paddleboard rentals in season. In winter the lakes become skating rinks and cross-country ski trails, and the park remains one of the best free things to do year-round. Developed areas are open from 6am to midnight. It suits runners, cyclists, families, couples and photographers, and it is a good reminder that Minneapolis is a lake city as much as a river one. Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska are the busiest, while Cedar Lake and Brownie Lake feel quieter and more wooded.
How to visit
The park covers more than 1,500 acres, so choose a lake rather than trying to see everything. Lake Harriet is the best first choice for a classic loop, with its bandshell, gardens and marina. Lake of the Isles has a quieter, residential feel, with grand houses along the shore. Bde Maka Ska is the largest and the most active, with beaches and watersports in summer.
Cedar Lake and Brownie Lake are more wooded and secluded. Paths are mostly flat and paved, so the lakes suit walkers of all ages. A pay parking lot and street parking are available, and the lakes are a short drive or bike ride from downtown.
Seasons
Summer brings swimmers, paddlers, sailors and concertgoers; autumn brings colour; winter brings skating, hockey and skiing. In the colder months restrooms at the regional parks are closed for the season, so plan for that. Several improvement projects, including work on the Lake Harriet bandshell and pavilion, the Lyndale Park rose garden and parkway resurfacing, may affect parts of the park, so watch for signs and detours.
Weather matters
November winds off an open lake are sharp, so a walk here in late autumn needs a hat and gloves, but the reward is quiet paths and low light.
Making the most of it
Rent bikes to circle several lakes in an afternoon, or choose a single lake and a coffee stop. Wheel Fun Rentals offers canoes, kayaks, bikes and paddleboards in season, and Bread and Pickle is listed on the park’s facilities. Combine the lakes with an art stop at the Sculpture Garden, a short distance away, or with Minnehaha Falls on the Grand Rounds. Early morning and sunset are the best times for photographs, and the lakes are a good choice for a free, flexible day when the weather is kind.
If you are staying downtown without a car, a rideshare or a bike hire gets you to the lakes quickly, and the paths are well signed. Remember that the lakes are a living neighbourhood as much as a visitor attraction, so keep to the paths, share them politely with cyclists and joggers, and take your rubbish with you.
What to expect
The experience
Five connected lakes with paved walking and bike paths, beaches, gardens and seasonal rentals, free to enjoy.
Best time
Early morning or sunset, and any season for a different experience: paddling in summer, skating in winter.
How long
One to three hours depending on how many lakes you cover.
Tips
Pick one lake, dress for wind off the water, and check for detours caused by park improvement projects.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Walkers, cyclists, runners and anyone who wants Minneapolis outdoors.
- Families
- Flat paved paths, beaches and playgrounds make it a good family choice in warm weather.
- Couples
- A lakeside walk at sunset is one of the most pleasant free things to do in the city.
- Pair with
- The Sculpture Garden, Minnehaha Falls or a lakeside cafe.
- Time needed
- One to three hours.
Good questions
What are the five lakes?+
Brownie Lake, Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet.
Is the Chain of Lakes free?+
Yes. The park is free to enter, with pay parking in some lots and rentals available in season.
What are the park hours?+
Developed areas are open from 6am to midnight.
Can I rent a bike or a boat?+
Yes. Canoes, kayaks, bikes and paddleboards are available from a rental operator in season.
What is there to do in winter?+
Skating, hockey and cross-country skiing, plus quiet walks, though regional park restrooms close for the season.
