Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Lake Nokomis
Cycling
5.0
(40)
Lake Nokomis is a prominent and beloved lake located in southeastern Minneapolis, Minnesota, forming a key part of the city's renowned Chain of Lakes. This oval-shaped lake, spanning approximately 204 acres, offers a refreshing natural escape within the urban landscape, positioned west of the Mississippi River and south of Lake Hiawatha. It is a central hub for recreation and community life, known for its accessible parkland and diverse activities.
Visitors consistently praise Lake Nokomis for its relaxed and inviting atmosphere, making it a favorite for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The scenic paved trails encircling the lake are particularly popular, offering beautiful routes for walking, jogging, and cycling. Many appreciate the variety of water activities available, from sailing and paddleboarding to fishing, all contributing to a vibrant yet peaceful setting.
Before your visit, it's helpful to know that Lake Nokomis is well-equipped for a comfortable experience. The area features wheelchair-accessible paved paths, ensuring everyone can enjoy the lakeside. There are two main beaches: the lively Main Beach with amenities like a playground and restaurant, and the quieter 50th Street Beach. Parking is available at various points around the lake and for the larger regional trails it connects to, such as at Taft Park and the Cedar Nichols Trailhead.
Lake Nokomis offers a wide array of activities throughout the year. During warmer months, it's ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing, with rentals available for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. The surrounding Nokomis Community Park provides extensive facilities for sports like baseball, tennis, and pickleball. In winter, the frozen lake transforms into a venue for ice skating and hosts events like the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships, making it a year-round destination.
For those looking to explore, two distinct pathways circle the lake: a 2.7-mile pedestrian trail and a 2.8-mile bicycle trail. These loops provide excellent opportunities for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating ride, allowing you to fully appreciate the lake's natural beauty and the surrounding parkland. Additionally, the Lake Nokomis Trail extends further, offering a longer 7.3-mile paved route that connects Minneapolis with Richfield and Bloomington.
Many visitors highlight the joy of spending a day by the water, whether it's enjoying a picnic by the shore, watching sailboats glide across the lake, or simply relaxing on one of the sandy beaches. The presence of a large playground at Main Beach makes it a fantastic spot for families, while the designated fishing piers offer easy access for anglers hoping to catch bluegill or largemouth bass. The lake's connection to the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway also provides opportunities for extended exploration.
With numerous trails and activities, Lake Nokomis invites you to discover its charm. Whether you're interested in a peaceful walk, an energetic bike ride, or a day of water sports, you can find routes and plan your visit using komoot. The area's accessibility and diverse offerings ensure there's something for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
Tips
September 13, 2024
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lake Nokomis
4.9
(50)
303
riders
42.9km
02:30
170m
170m
The Lake Nokomis – Martin Olav Sabo Bridge loop from West Bank offers a fantastic touring cycling experience, blending urban views with natural serenity. You'll cruise along the shores of Lake Nokomis, enjoying continuous lake views and tree-lined paths, before winding through the dense woods of the Minnehaha Creek trail. The route's highlight is the Martin Olav Sabo Bridge, a striking piece of bike architecture that provides glorious views of the downtown Minneapolis skyline, especially as the sun sets.
This moderate 26.6 miles (42.9 km) loop, with a gentle 558 feet (170 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 29 minutes to complete. The trails are well-maintained and mostly flat, making it an easy ride for most cyclists. The Martin Olav Sabo Bridge was specifically built to improve safety and navigation, routing you away from busy roads, so you can focus on the scenery.
This route is a prime example of Minneapolis's commitment to barrier-free bicycling infrastructure, connecting seamlessly to the Midtown Greenway and the broader Grand Rounds Scenic Byway. Lake Nokomis itself is a popular spot, but dedicated paths ensure cyclists have plenty of space. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed, scenic ride through diverse city landscapes.
4.9
(55)
255
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(10)
116
riders
23.0km
01:21
70m
70m
This easy bike loop is one of the most popular cycling trails in Minneapolis's Chain of Lakes, offering a delightful journey through diverse urban landscapes. You'll cruise along paved paths, enjoying lush greenery and blooming flowers in spring and summer, with picturesque views of Minnehaha Creek, Lake Nokomis, and Lake Harriet. The 14.3-mile (23.0 km) route, with a gentle 242 feet (74 metres) of elevation gain, is an easy ride that takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it perfect for a leisurely outing.
When planning your visit, be aware that while the Lake Nokomis Lake Harriet bike trail difficulty is easy, some sections along Minnehaha Creek involve crossing busy streets, though underpasses help. The trails can get quite busy, especially on nice days, so be prepared to share the path with other cyclists and pedestrians. Starting from 46th Street provides convenient access to this well-maintained park system.
This iconic route is part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway and even features in the Twin Cities Marathon, highlighting its significance. Along the way, you'll encounter landmarks like the historic Lake Harriet bandshell, the Lyndale Park Rose Garden, and the Nokomis Naturescape, offering plenty of opportunities for scenic stops and exploration.
Details
Informations
Distance 89 m
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Today
Tuesday 23 June
25°C
15°C
97 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails and in the park areas around Lake Nokomis?
Yes, Lake Nokomis is generally dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome on the paved pedestrian and bicycle trails that encircle the lake, as well as in the surrounding park areas. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
What are the specific distances for the trails around Lake Nokomis?
Lake Nokomis features two distinct pathways circling the lake: a 2.7-mile (4.3 km) pedestrian trail and a slightly longer 2.8-mile (4.5 km) bicycle trail. Additionally, the broader Lake Nokomis Trail extends for 7.3 miles, connecting Minneapolis with Richfield and Bloomington, and is popular for biking, walking, jogging, and inline skating.
Is Lake Nokomis wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the park system around Lake Nokomis is designed to be wheelchair accessible. It features paved paths that are 10-foot-wide, ensuring that visitors using wheelchairs can comfortably enjoy the scenic routes and accessible shoreline.
What activities are available at Lake Nokomis during the winter months?
Lake Nokomis remains a vibrant destination in winter. When the lake freezes, it becomes a popular spot for ice skating and hosts events like the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships. The surrounding trails are also suitable for winter walks and jogs, offering a different perspective of the lake's beauty.
How crowded does Lake Nokomis typically get, especially on weekends?
Lake Nokomis is a popular destination, particularly on warm weekends and during community events. Parking can fill up quickly, especially in summer. Arriving before mid-morning is strongly recommended to secure a spot and enjoy a less crowded experience. Weekdays generally offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
Are there any cafes or restaurants directly on Lake Nokomis or nearby?
Yes, the Main Beach at Lake Nokomis features a lakeside restaurant called The Painted Turtle, offering convenient dining options. There are also various cafes and eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods of Minneapolis, just a short drive or walk from the lake.
Is Lake Nokomis suitable for beginner paddleboarders?
Yes, Lake Nokomis is an excellent spot for beginner paddleboarders. Its relatively calm waters, especially on less windy days, provide a safe and enjoyable environment to learn and practice. Rentals for paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks are available from Wheel Fun Rentals at the lake.
Are there designated swimming areas or wild swimming spots at Lake Nokomis?
Lake Nokomis has two popular designated swimming beaches: the Main Beach, which is well-equipped with lifeguards, and the 50th Street Beach, also known as 'Little Beach,' which offers a quieter experience. These are the recommended and safest spots for swimming.
What kind of wildlife can be spotted around Lake Nokomis?
Lake Nokomis is home to various fish species, including bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, walleye, and yellow perch, making it a popular fishing spot. Birdwatchers can also spot a variety of waterfowl and other bird species that frequent the lake and its surrounding parkland.
What is the history behind the name 'Lake Nokomis'?
Originally named Lake Amelia in 1819, the lake was renamed Lake Nokomis in 1910. This new name honors Nokomis, the fictional grandmother of Hiawatha in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's epic poem, with 'Nokomis' deriving from Ojibwe origins meaning 'my grandmother'.
Are there public transport options to reach Lake Nokomis?
Yes, Lake Nokomis is accessible via public transport. Several Metro Transit bus routes serve the area around the lake, connecting it to other parts of Minneapolis. Checking the Metro Transit website for current routes and schedules is recommended for planning your visit.
What types of fish can be caught in Lake Nokomis?
Lake Nokomis is a popular fishing destination, offering a variety of fish species. Anglers can expect to catch bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, walleye, and yellow perch. Designated fishing piers are available for easy access.