Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Cycling
5.0
(39)
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,…
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September 13, 2024
Cycling
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4.5
(11)
109
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(51)
245
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(46)
278
riders
40.1km
02:23
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 89 m
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Tuesday 31 March
12°C
1°C
17 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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'.
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.
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.