Nokomis-Hiawatha Regional Park
A vibrant urban oasis offering scenic trails, water sports, and family fun around Lake Nokomis.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for activities
Nokomis-Hiawatha Regional Park
Best Time
Pleasant weather for activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant urban oasis offering scenic trails, water sports, and family fun around Lake Nokomis.
"The pathways are always well-kept and easy to navigate, making the whole experience more enjoyable and safe."
🚶♀️🚶♂️ Separate Paths
Enjoy dedicated walking and biking trails for a safer, more pleasant experience.
🛶 Paddle Minnehaha Creek
Check the official website for creek conditions before you float or paddle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Nokomis Trails
Around Lake Nokomis
Enjoy scenic, well-maintained paths with separate lanes for walkers and bikers.

Water Sports Hub
Lake Nokomis
Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards for a refreshing day on the water.

Minnehaha Creek Paddling
Minnehaha Creek
Float down the creek for a unique outdoor adventure, checking conditions online.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Trails and Waterways
Seasonal Charm and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️🚶♂️ Separate Paths
Enjoy dedicated walking and biking trails for a safer, more pleasant experience.
🛶 Paddle Minnehaha Creek
Check the official website for creek conditions before you float or paddle.
☀️ Beach & Playground Fun
Great spot for families with open spaces, beaches, and a playground.
🚗 Parking Options
Paid and free parking available; plan accordingly based on your visit time.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️🚶♂️ Separate Paths
Enjoy dedicated walking and biking trails for a safer, more pleasant experience.
🛶 Paddle Minnehaha Creek
Check the official website for creek conditions before you float or paddle.
☀️ Beach & Playground Fun
Great spot for families with open spaces, beaches, and a playground.
🚗 Parking Options
Paid and free parking available; plan accordingly based on your visit time.
🎣 Fishing Pier Access
Convenient and accessible pier for anglers of all skill levels.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Nokomis-Hiawatha Regional Park for its beautiful scenery, well-maintained trails with separate paths for walkers and bikers, and family-friendly atmosphere. The variety of activities, from water sports to picnicking, makes it a versatile destination. Some minor drawbacks include basic locker room facilities.
"I love going for rides around Lake Nokomis—it’s one of my favorite spots in the city. The pathways are always well-kept and easy to navigate, and I really appreciate the thoughtful design of having one path for walkers and another for bikers and scooters. It makes the whole experience more enjoyable and safe for everyone, whether you’re moving at a fast pace or just out for a stroll.
The scenery around the lake is beautiful, and depending on the season, you get to enjoy so many different views—lush greenery in the summer, colorful trees in the fall, and even a peaceful, quiet setting in the winter. It’s also a great place for families, since there are open spaces, beaches, and plenty of areas to just relax.
We especially enjoy coming here to watch our son play ultimate frisbee on the fields next to the lake. There’s always such great energy with people gathering to play or cheer each other on, and it makes the whole area feel lively and welcoming. Between the trails, the fields, and the natural beauty, Lake Nokomis really has something for everyone."
Edward Hegemann
"Lake Nokomis is a nice lake located in the heart of the city that offers a relaxing, family-friendly enviroment. They offer many activities such as swimming, Fishing, canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding. You can also enjoy a walk, run, jog or biking the trails. They offer paid and free parking depending on time. They have a playground with a swingset near the beach area. They also have lots of areas you can have a picnic. I personally enjoyed having BBQ's, fishing, and getting some cardio with my family. Police Park patrol as well for an extra layer of safety and security."
Tam Huynh
"Lake Harriet: A Minneapolis Gem for Recreation and Relaxation
Lake Harriet is truly one of Minneapolis's crown jewels, offering a fantastic array of activities and a beautiful natural setting right within the city. Our recent visit only reinforced its reputation as a wonderful place to spend time outdoors.
We had a fantastic time fishing off the public fishing pier, which proved to be a convenient and accessible spot for anglers of all ages. It's always great when a lake provides dedicated facilities like this, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the sport. The excitement was palpable when one person in our group managed to catch a sunfish! Even a smaller catch like that adds to the fun and creates a memorable experience, especially for those new to fishing or just enjoying a leisurely afternoon.
Beyond the excellent fishing opportunities, Lake Harriet boasts so much more. The paved paths around the lake are perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, offering picturesque views at every turn. In the warmer months, you'll find people enjoying the beaches, paddleboarding, or kayaking. The iconic Lake Harriet Bandshell hosts free concerts and events throughout the summer, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Whether you're looking to cast a line, take a leisurely stroll, enjoy some live music, or simply relax by the water, Lake Harriet delivers a quintessential Minneapolis experience. It's a truly great place to connect with nature and enjoy some recreational fun right in the heart of the city."
Michelle Lea B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible by car, with both paid and free parking options available. Public transportation routes also serve the area, making it convenient for visitors without a vehicle.
Yes, there are parking lots available. Some are paid, while others are free, depending on the specific location and time of your visit.
Absolutely! The park features well-maintained pathways, including dedicated bike lanes, making it a great destination for cyclists.
Information on specific bus routes can be found on local transit authority websites. The park's location within Minneapolis makes it generally accessible via public transit.
The Minnehaha Creek website provides a map and current conditions for paddling access points along the creek.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Nokomis-Hiawatha Regional Park is generally free to enter. There may be fees associated with specific activities or rentals.
Park hours typically align with daylight hours, but it's always best to check the official Minneapolis Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
While not always required, booking water sport rentals in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to ensure availability.
The park, particularly areas like Lake Harriet nearby, often hosts free concerts and events during the summer at its bandshell. Check local listings for schedules.
Access to the playground and beaches is typically free. Lifeguards may be present at designated swimming areas during specific hours in the summer.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy biking, walking, running, swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, picnicking, and playing at the playground.
Yes, the park has thoughtfully designed pathways with separate lanes for walkers and bikers, enhancing safety and enjoyment.
Capture stunning shots along the lake shores, especially during sunrise or sunset, and don't miss the scenic views from the trestle bridges if you venture to nearby Hiawatha trails.
It's an excellent family-friendly destination with open spaces, beaches, a playground, and various recreational activities suitable for all ages.
The park is home to various bird species, and you might spot other local wildlife, especially around the lake and creek areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are concessions and a mini food spot where you can grab snacks and drinks. Many visitors also enjoy picnicking or having BBQs in designated areas.
Yes, the park offers many areas suitable for picnics and BBQs, making it a great spot for a family outing or gathering.
Concessions typically offer casual fare like snacks, drinks, and light meals. It's advisable to bring your own food for more extensive dining.
Yes, the park is located in Minneapolis, offering a wide range of dining options in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is a popular option, especially for picnics and BBQs.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour lighting over the lake. Fall foliage also provides stunning photographic opportunities.
The pathways around Lake Nokomis, the lake itself, and any new bridges or trail features offer great photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically regulated in city parks. It's essential to check the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board's specific drone policy before flying.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and general shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive lake views.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing along water toys for the lake or planning a gentle paddle on Minnehaha Creek if your children are old enough and you've checked the conditions. The separate walking and biking paths also make it safer for families to explore together without worrying about fast-moving cyclists.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Runners
These paths offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding parkland, making your workout both enjoyable and visually stimulating. Whether you're training for an event or just out for a recreational ride, the park provides an excellent urban trail experience.
🎣 Anglers and Paddlers
Paddlers will find opportunities on both Lake Nokomis and the nearby Minnehaha Creek. While rentals are available for kayaks and canoes on the lake, exploring the creek requires checking conditions and access points via its official website for a unique floating or paddling adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Nokomis-Hiawatha
The trails provide beautiful views throughout the year, from lush greenery in the summer to vibrant fall colors and serene winter landscapes. These paths are not just for exercise; they are integral to the park's appeal, connecting various amenities and natural areas. Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk, a challenging bike ride, or simply a place to enjoy the outdoors, the trail system at Nokomis-Hiawatha offers a diverse and accessible experience.
For those interested in exploring beyond the immediate park area, the Minnehaha Creek offers opportunities for paddling. While not directly part of the park's paved trails, it's a nearby natural waterway that can be accessed for a different kind of outdoor adventure. Checking the official Minnehaha Creek website for current conditions and access points is crucial before embarking on such an activity.
Water Activities and Recreation
The park also provides facilities for fishing, including a public fishing pier that is noted for its convenience and accessibility. This makes it a great spot for anglers of all ages and experience levels to try their luck. The presence of police patrols also adds an extra layer of safety and security for all park-goers, including those enjoying activities on the water.
Beyond the lake, Minnehaha Creek offers a unique opportunity for those who enjoy floating or paddling down a natural waterway. The official Minnehaha Creek website is an invaluable resource for planning such an excursion, providing essential information on maps, current conditions, and safe access points. This ensures that visitors can have a well-informed and enjoyable experience on the creek.
Community and Family Appeal
The park's lively energy is often amplified by community events and recreational sports, such as ultimate frisbee games played on the fields adjacent to the lake. This creates a dynamic environment where people come together to play, cheer, and socialize. The combination of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and community engagement makes Nokomis-Hiawatha a cherished destination for a wide range of visitors.
While the park offers many amenities, some reviews mention that locker and changing room facilities can be basic. However, this minor point does not detract from the overall positive experience that families and individuals have when visiting the park for its numerous outdoor activities and scenic beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit