Welcome to the land of lakes! Minnesota, known as the ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes’, is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a staggering 11,842 lakes and over 6,500 natural rivers, Minnesota boasts some of the most picturesque and serene bodies of water in the United States.
If you’re looking to explore the best lakes that Minnesota has to offer, you’re in luck! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the 15 best lakes in Minnesota, from the tranquil Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis to the expansive Lake Superior in Saint Louis County. So grab your sunscreen, pack your fishing gear, and get ready to dive into the beauty of Minnesota’s lakes.
1. Lake of the Isles, Minneapolis
Highlights:
– Quiet and beautiful city lake
– Perfect for walking, cycling, and scenic drives
– Ice skating in winter
– Protected wildlife refuges
Lake of the Isles is a hidden gem in Minneapolis, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by a picturesque path, this serene lake is ideal for leisurely strolls or invigorating bike rides. In the winter, the frozen lake transforms into a magical ice skating rink. Don’t miss the two wooded islands in the center, home to protected wildlife refuges that add to the lake’s charm.
2. Lake Vermilion, Saint Louis County
Highlights:
– Fifth largest lake in Minnesota
– Excellent fishing for muskie and walleye
– National Geographic-rated scenic lake
– Breathtaking sunrises
Located in northeastern Minnesota, Lake Vermilion is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. As the fifth largest lake in the state, it offers ample opportunities to reel in trophy catches of muskie and walleye. With its stunning natural beauty and jaw-dropping sunrises, it’s no wonder Lake Vermilion was once rated as one of the most scenic lakes in the country by the National Geographic Society.
3. Lake Harriet, Minneapolis
Highlights:
– Popular for special events and recreational activities
– Walking and cycling trails
– Sailing and swimming beaches
– Live entertainment at the band shell
Situated in the southwest part of Minneapolis, Lake Harriet is a vibrant hub of activity year-round. From special events to leisurely walks along the shoreline, this lake offers something for everyone. Enjoy a day of sailing, swimming, or relaxing on the sandy beaches. Don’t miss the live entertainment at the band shell, where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the lake.
4. Lake Pepin, Goodhue & Wabasha County
Highlights:
– Largest part of the Mississippi River
– Scenic marinas and lighthouse
– Frontenac State Park for bird watching and camping
– Excellent fishing for walleye, crappie, and more
Lake Pepin, a natural gem shared with Wisconsin, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Explore the scenic marinas, visit the historic lighthouse, or embark on a bird-watching adventure at Frontenac State Park. Whether you’re fishing for walleye or simply admiring the breathtaking views, Lake Pepin has something for everyone.
Join us in the next section as we continue our journey through the best lakes in Minnesota!
5. Lake Calhoun, Minneapolis
Highlights:
– Largest lake in Minneapolis
– Part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway
– Three beaches for swimming
– Windsurfing, canoeing, and sailing
As the largest lake in Minneapolis, Lake Calhoun offers a wealth of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Explore the park’s three beaches, perfect for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. Whether you’re into windsurfing, canoeing, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, Lake Calhoun has something for everyone to enjoy.
6. Mille Lacs Lake, Mille Lacs, Aitkin & Crow Wing Counties
Highlights:
– Second largest lake in Minnesota
– Shallow lake with diverse wildlife
– Mille Lacs National Wildlife Refuge
– Popular summer destination for fishing and watersports
Meaning ‘thousand lakes’ in French, Mille Lacs Lake is a hidden gem located north of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. Despite its shallow waters, this lake is teeming with diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re kayaking, canoeing, or fishing for walleye and muskie, Mille Lacs Lake has something for everyone to enjoy.
7. Lake Superior, Saint Louis County
Highlights:
– Stunning North Shore with rocky cliffs and forested hills
– Superior National Forest for camping and outdoor activities
– Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities
– Winter activities like ice fishing and skating
Discover the rugged beauty of Lake Superior’s North Shore in Minnesota, home to rocky cliffs, dense forests, and pristine beaches. Whether you’re exploring the coastline by kayak, fishing for trophy catches, or enjoying winter activities like ice fishing, Lake Superior offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Stay tuned for more exciting lakes and hidden gems in Minnesota!
8. Rainy Lake, Koochiching County
Highlights:
– Part of Voyageurs National Park
– Prime spot for recreational fishing
– Ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in winter
– Fishing cabins and boat-in camping sites
Escape to the tranquil shores of Rainy Lake, nestled within the pristine landscapes of Voyageurs National Park. With its abundant fishing opportunities and scenic beauty, this lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re casting a line from a fishing cabin or exploring the winter wonderland through snowshoeing, Rainy Lake offers a true escape into nature.
9. Gull Lake, Cass & Crow Wing Counties
Highlights:
– Massive lake with developed shoreline
– Variety of aquatic life for fishing
– Water sports, golfing, and horseback riding
– Cabins, resorts, and homes for a relaxing getaway
Take a break from the hustle and bustle at Gull Lake, a sprawling body of water teeming with aquatic life and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re waterskiing, golfing, or simply unwinding in a lakeside cabin, Gull Lake offers the perfect retreat for those seeking serenity and relaxation.
10. Leech Lake, Cass County
Highlights:
– Surrounded by Chippewa National Forest
– Prime fishing destination for walleye and perch
– Diverse activities like swimming, hiking, and snowmobiling
– Scenic islands and bays for exploration
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Leech Lake, surrounded by the serene landscapes of Chippewa National Forest. With its diverse fishing opportunities, scenic islands, and tranquil bays, Leech Lake offers a unique blend of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts of all kinds.
Discover more hidden gems and picturesque lakes in the next section of our guide!
11. Lake Itasca, Clearwater County
Highlights:
– Glacial lake at the edge of Itasca State Park
– Excellent fishing for northern pike and bass
– Bird watching opportunities
– Boating, kayaking, and hiking options
Explore the tranquil waters of Lake Itasca, nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Itasca State Park. Whether you’re fishing for northern pike or bass, bird watching along the shores, or enjoying a leisurely paddle, Lake Itasca offers a peaceful escape into nature.
12. Lake Bemidji, Beltrami County
Highlights:
– Glacially-formed lake within Lake Bemidji State Park
– Recreational activities like boating and fishing
– Extensive network of cycling and hiking trails
– Winter activities including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
Venture to the serene shores of Lake Bemidji, a glacial lake surrounded by the pristine landscapes of Lake Bemidji State Park. Whether you’re boating on the crystal-clear waters, hiking along scenic trails, or enjoying winter activities like cross-country skiing, Lake Bemidji offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
13. Lake Nokomis, Minneapolis
Highlights:
– City lake with sandy beaches for swimming
– Winter ice skating rink
– U.S. pond hockey championships
– Scenic walking trails and amenities
Discover the urban oasis of Lake Nokomis, located in the heart of Minneapolis. With its sandy beaches, scenic walking trails, and winter ice skating rink, Lake Nokomis offers a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and natural beauty for visitors of all ages.
14. Burntside Lake, Saint Louis County
Highlights:
– Scenic lake with over 100 islands
– Boundless fishing opportunities
– Proximity to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
– Abundant wildlife and stunning views
Embark on a journey to the serene shores of Burntside Lake, a hidden gem with over 100 islands waiting to be explored. Whether you’re casting a line for trophy fish, paddling through tranquil waters, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, Burntside Lake offers a true escape into nature.
15. Lake Phalen, Saint Paul
Highlights:
– Urban lake with surrounding park
– Popular fishing spot for walleyes and northern pike
– Sailing, boating, and swimming opportunities
– Golf course and Chinese garden along the shoreline
Experience the beauty of Lake Phalen, nestled within the charming suburb of Maplewood in Saint Paul. From fishing for walleyes to sailing on the crystal-clear waters, Lake Phalen offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and natural beauty for visitors to enjoy.
In conclusion, Minnesota’s vast array of lakes offers something for everyone, from scenic beauty to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re exploring the tranquil shores of Lake of the Isles or embarking on a fishing excursion at Lake Vermilion, Minnesota’s lakes are sure to captivate and inspire. So pack your bags, gather your friends and family, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes’.
With this in-depth guide, you now have the tools and knowledge to explore the best lakes in Minnesota. From serene city lakes to vast, scenic bodies of water, Minnesota offers a diverse range of experiences for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Whether you’re casting a line for trophy fish or paddling through tranquil waters, Minnesota’s lakes are waiting to be explored and enjoyed. So grab your sunscreen, pack your fishing gear, and get ready to embark on a memorable lakeside adventure in the beautiful state of Minnesota.
Start planning your next lakeside getaway today and discover the magic of Minnesota’s ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes’!