
Brownie Lake
A serene, secluded gem among Minneapolis's Chain of Lakes, perfect for quiet walks and peaceful paddling adventures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter paddling, fewer people

Brownie Lake
Best Time
Quieter paddling, fewer people

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, secluded gem among Minneapolis's Chain of Lakes, perfect for quiet walks and peaceful paddling adventures.
"A cute little lake in the city, off the more beaten paths of bigger lakes, peaceful. "

Kayak Access Tip
Enter via Cedar Lake tunnel for easier kayak access if not living nearby. 🛶
Parking is Scarce
Consider biking or walking your watercraft if you live close; parking is very limited. 🚗

Quick Facts
Rating
3.9 · 10 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Secluded Paddleboarding
Brownie Lake
Enjoy a peaceful paddleboard or kayak trip on this smaller, less crowded lake. Perfect for quiet contemplation.

Scenic City Walk
Brownie Lake Trail
A lovely, off-the-beaten-path walk offering beautiful lake views and a sense of tranquility within the city.

Connected Chain of Lakes Access
Via Cedar Lake Tunnel
Easily connect to the larger Chain of Lakes for extended paddling adventures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Brownie Lake
Best Use: Quiet Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak Access Tip
Enter via Cedar Lake tunnel for easier kayak access if not living nearby. 🛶
Parking is Scarce
Consider biking or walking your watercraft if you live close; parking is very limited. 🚗
Kayaking Minneapolis?
What are some good routes to kayak in the area? We love nature views, but aren't opposed to some city. Easy trails would be nice, we haven't kayaked in over a year and I had a baby since ☺
Peaceful Walks
Great spot for a quiet walk, but be aware of potential bike trail construction. 🚶
Fishing Not Recommended
Many visitors report low fishing success here. :fishingpoleand_வத:
Approximately how long does it take to kayak between the chain of lakes in Minneapolis?
So I was really hoping to rent a kayak at Bde Maka Ska this long weekend and go from there to Brownie and back. I've never kayaked there before and it will only be my second time kayaking in my entire life. So I was just wondering how much time I should set aside to do this. I…
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak Access Tip
Enter via Cedar Lake tunnel for easier kayak access if not living nearby. 🛶
Parking is Scarce
Consider biking or walking your watercraft if you live close; parking is very limited. 🚗
Peaceful Walks
Great spot for a quiet walk, but be aware of potential bike trail construction. 🚶
Fishing Not Recommended
Many visitors report low fishing success here. :fishingpoleand_வத:
Dog-Friendly Hikes
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, perfect for a scenic hike with your furry friend. 🐕
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Brownie Lake is cherished for its peaceful, secluded atmosphere, offering a tranquil escape within the city. While parking is a challenge and fishing is not recommended, visitors appreciate its beauty for quiet walks and paddling, especially its connectivity to the larger Chain of Lakes.
"Brownie lake is a hidden lake and seems to be the smallest of the chain of lakes. If you live close to the lake it will be easy to start your paddle board or kayak trip so you can travel into cedar lake and explore the other chain of lakes. I would only recommend starting your trip from this lake if you can walk or bike your kayak and live really close as there is no parking lot. If you do not live walking distance to the lake it would be easier to enter under the tunnel from cedar lake with a kayak. The lake is small but it is beautiful. I have not had much luck fishing and all the other fishermen seem not to have much luck there either. If you are looking to be secluded in a small lake with your kayak or paddle board it would be worth it to at least check it out. You can take beautiful pictures of the lake, you can see the view of a large building and it is very quiet. The lake is also near a bike trail, at the moment there is construction on the bike travel, I would recommend checking any detours before your trip if you are trying to get to the lake via a bike or walking. If you are entering through the cedar lake tunnel on a kayak you should not have any problems."
Armando Mejia
"I almost caught a 45" muskie here couple years ago. Will be redeeming myself this year."
Carlos
"Cute little lake in the city. A lot of trash and really needs to be cleaned up though."
Nicki B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parking at Brownie Lake is very limited. If driving, be prepared for minimal parking options. Many visitors recommend biking or walking your kayak/paddleboard if you live nearby.
Yes, it's a great spot for paddling. For easier access, especially if you're not local, consider entering via the Cedar Lake tunnel.
Yes, Brownie Lake is part of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes trail system. However, be aware that there can be construction on the bike trails, so check for detours before your trip.
While specific bus routes vary, the Chain of Lakes is generally accessible via public transport within Minneapolis. Check local transit maps for routes serving the Bde Maka Ska or Cedar Lake areas.
No, there is no dedicated parking lot for Brownie Lake. Access is primarily for those living nearby or using the surrounding trail system.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Brownie Lake is a public park and part of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, so there are no admission fees or tickets required to enter.
As a public park, Brownie Lake is generally accessible from early morning until late evening, following Minneapolis park hours. Specific hours can be found on the Minneapolis Parks Foundation website.
There are no specific fees for launching personal kayaks or paddleboards at Brownie Lake. If you are renting, rental fees will apply.
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required for anyone fishing in Brownie Lake. However, many visitors report low success rates for fishing here.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the trails around Brownie Lake. It's a great spot for a hike with your canine companion.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Brownie Lake is known for being the smallest and often most secluded of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, offering a peaceful escape for walks and paddling.
While technically part of the Chain of Lakes, Brownie Lake is not typically designated as a swimming beach. It's more suited for paddling and enjoying the scenery.
You might spot various bird species, turtles, and other small urban wildlife. It's a natural habitat within the city.
Restroom facilities are not typically located directly at Brownie Lake itself. You may find them at larger nearby lakes like Cedar Lake or Bde Maka Ska.
The lake offers beautiful reflections, especially during golden hour, and views of the city skyline in the distance. It's a picturesque spot for nature photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining establishments directly at Brownie Lake. You'll find options near the larger lakes in the Chain of Lakes, such as Bde Maka Ska or Lake Harriet.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can bring your own food and find a quiet spot along the shore or on the trails for a picnic. Remember to pack out all trash.
The closest dining options are typically found around Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet, offering a range of casual to more upscale choices.
Alcohol consumption is generally permitted in Minneapolis parks, but it's important to follow park rules and regulations regarding public consumption and responsible behavior. Check the Minneapolis Parks Foundation for specific guidelines.
Food trucks are not a permanent fixture at Brownie Lake, but they may occasionally be present at larger events or in nearby park areas. It's best to check local event listings.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. The calm waters can create stunning reflections.
The shoreline, the tunnel entrance from Cedar Lake, and any vantage points offering views of the city skyline in the distance are excellent for photos.
Drone usage in Minneapolis parks is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check the Minneapolis Parks Foundation website for current drone policies and obtain any necessary permits before flying.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors' privacy.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lake and surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance reflections and sky colors.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit