Lake of the Isles

This is probably one of my favorites, If not my all time favorite place to chill during hot summer days. Yes, it might get a tad crowded on weekends in the summer but once you make it past the Wheel Fun Rentals and larger pedestrian bridge, you can’t really hear the hustle and bustle of the city any more and are one with nature in your kayak. As far as kayaking around the lake, the water is very calm, and there aren’t many boaters around so you don’t have to been like your life is going to be a risk if you’re a first timer. It’s a very nice lake to paddleboard on because there is not too much water traffic. Running… let’s be honest. walking around the lake doesn’t take too long either and it’s a nice combination of nature, nice houses, and different kinds of people to watch. The lake is clean, the general vicinity around the lake is nice, and it offers the perfect little escape right in the middle of the city.
If you decide to rent a kayak, I’d suggest getting a Wheel Fun Rentals groupon, those are always available online. They have plastic bags available so you can put your phone and keys in them for safety. unless you are trying to snapchat your entire experience, then I recommend getting a waterproof, submersible phone case. I’ve seen so many people fall out of their kayaks or off their paddleboards.

Such a peaceful lake. It’s not a perfect circle, so there’s small coves that are swimmable which makes it one of my favorite lakes in the Twin Cities. It’s great for runs/​walks and walking dogs, The houses that border the lake are beautiful and fun to look at because they’re so expansive. Summer or a sunny winter day, this lake is gorgeous and connects to Lake Calhoun as well. They have awesome paddle boarding and kayak rentals at Lake Calhoun that you can bring onto Isles as well, so fun!

I moved to MN last summer and kayaking in summer or just taking a walk around lake of isles is really nice.
Even in Winters, its beautiful. First of all you can walk on frozen lake, how amazing is that (well as I am non-​minnesotan). You can also skate or play ice hockey here (neither of which i know how to), there is a room if you want to get warm before/​after skate.
Part which i know how to, is running. This is really nice place to run. There are always fellow runners on this. Its a 3 mile circle or whatever shape this has.
Another great thing is, its in uptown so after your walk/​run/​kayak/​skate/​ice hockey/​or any weird shit you are into; you can eat and drink in so many restaurants and bars.

We live very close to Lake of the Isles and love to go there in all seasons. It’s about 3 miles if you walk around the whole perimeter. Separate walking and biking paths making it pleasant for bikers and walkers.
You can cross country ski, ice skate or walk across it in the winter.
Lake Calhoun has places you can rent canoes, stand up paddle boards, etc, and then paddle over to Lake of the Isles.

Less crowded than its sibling Lake Calhoun, it’s a perfect place for a picnic or a chat with a friend without feeling like you’re in the middle of a crowd. The funny shape also makes for a far more entertaining bike. Or you could just pick up a coffee at a nearby shop and go people watching: cyclists, runners, dog walkers, and even some aquatic sport aficionados. Factor in the acoustic isolation and the nice (and expensive) real estate in the area, and you get a pretty amazing place. Oh and also, lots of ducks.
PS: Don’t miss out the public ice skating rink in the winter! There’s a shelter at 25^th and Parkway with free gear.

Beautiful running spot that showcases MN’s gorgeous lakes. One loop will get you about 2.6m, so you can extend a little bit for a great 5k. There are also paths that can let you extend into a 6 – 8 miler.

Around the Lake of the Isles I go,
About three miles in total or so,
Beautiful homes, joggers out even when it’s cold,
Minnesotans are tough and loving, «Don’t cha know?»
Winter brings lake hockey, summer canoeing,
Spring time causes people to hold hands, love starts brewing,
The lake is a great place to hang when you plan,
Take note that you can see the city’s skyline from 28^th and Pkwy, understand?

Loveliest urban lake ever! Would live here in a heartbeat.
Quiet neighborhood with the most beautiful, big houses to look at as you walk, jog or bike around.
There are two paths separating people by activity. I was running while my kids were biking, so I broke the rules to be next to them (and run a little further than the shorter walking trail on the inside. :) Yes, you know people like me… squeezing out those extra steps.) FYI: The bike trail is a one way going clockwise around the lake. Same for Lake Calhoun across the street, which was perfect for my figure eight, running them both, idea.
Loved the way the lake and trails curve and bend so you really have no idea how far you’ve gone or how much further to go. So pretty and serene!

My favorite lake in Minneapolis, and I’m not just saying that because I live near it. It is 2.6 miles on the jogging path so perfect for a short run. There is always something interesting to look at — and on a cool Saturday summer morning very beautiful as the sun comes up. Plenty of green space to throw down a blanket and do nothing. One of the best dog parks is at the south end.
If I have one complaint (and this applies to all the lakes in the chain) is the occasional lack of PATH ETIQUETTE. 1. Pick up after your dog. 2. Keep your dog under control on a 6 foot leash (I’ve been bitten and my dog attacked). 3. If you don’t have wheels, be on the inner path and if you do, stay on the outer.

The quiet lake. Surrounded by sturdy, old school mansions. Couples picknicking with a bottle of Chardonnay and duck pâté. Gay guys scouting out the bridge for a potential wedding photo op… hoping someday the government will come to their senses.
The quiet lake. A place for a peaceful, non bicycle-​roller blade-​skate boarding kinda place. To walk. Zen out.
Maybe spot a duck or two that’s not in the pâté you’re eating. With that oaky Chardonnay.
The quiet lake. Smaller in size. But don’t be fooled. Size doesn’t always matter.
«He chuckles as he types.»
The quiet lake. A place to reflect on how awesome Minneapolis is. And, sometimes, because of those damn sturdy mansion, a place to realize, you have THINGS TO DO. Places to go. Dreams to realize.
Lake of the Isles. It’s as Minneapolis as the Guthrie Theatre. The good olé Mississippi. And me. Returning to my homeland. Returning to a great place.
That’s not always quite energizing as rowdy Calhoun and yuppy as Uptown Harriet. But will always have a serene spot.
Lake of the Isles, to get away from it all.
Five Big Stars. To memories made. And memories to be made.

This is by far my favorite lake to jog around in Uptown (I go about everyday). It is a little off the beaten track and so It is not usually crawling with people like Lake Calhoun. The walking/​jogging trail is about 2.6 miles and it is kind of leaf shaped. Lake of the Isles connects to Lake Calhoun and Cedar Lake, so you can paddle board and kayak to them all.
The homes surrounding Lake of the Isles are beautiful! When I go walking I tend to dream about what all the homes look like inside. I usually see people fishing, but I am not sure what they are catching. There are plenty of geese and turtles that hangout here as well. I have seen the turtles walking on all 4 legs back to the lake. I have also seen beavers or something swimming in the lake on some of my morning runs.

As the Middle Lake in the Chain of lakes (I’m only counting those with shared waterways) Lake of the Isles boasts a unique ambiance that really sets it apart.
First of all, this is a much quieter lake in terms of traffic and sunbathers. You are definitely sure to find a great parking spot (for free!) and a quiet secluded spot to stake your claim and just soak up the rays.
Additionally, if you want to see some wildlife, this is your best chance! From the duck families floating around the edges, to geese hanging out in a lagoon, and even a lake monster if the timing is right (might want to follow her on facebook to be sure!), Lake of the Isles is alive with critters. The best part are the 2 wildlife refugee islands in the middle that is home to many of said critters you will see.
But my favorite part about this lake is it is my favorite for paddleboarding! Sure, you start in Calhoun if you are renting some watercrafts, but if you are on a paddleboard, it will be far more enjoyable in Lake of the Isles.
So why is it the best for paddleboarding? The water is almost always still — or at least more calm than in Calhoun. Also, the island provide for this create figure 8 pattern that can keep you busy for quite awhile. The wildlife sightings get even better when you are on the water — jumping muskie fly out of the water randomly and little sea turtles paddle alongside of you. As you pass between the islands, a whooping crane watches lazily in between pecks at lily pads and lake moss. Oh, and the views of downtown are spectacular from this lake too.
While most people head straight through Lake of the Isles to Cedar Lake, they are missing some of the best part of paddle boarding. If you happen to have your own board, there are still great entry points along the lake, including the dock. But even at an hourly rate, spending a little time exploring this lake is definitely work it!

**Review #500**
I like to save the special reviews for special places. ahhh! Doesn’t that melt your heart?
But really, as a new Minneapolitan I absolutely LOVE living by this gorgeous body of water. My dogs LOVE living by this gorgeous body of water… if only their little chicken-​wing legs were longer so they wouldn’t get so tired they could walk the whole thing. (They’re dachshunds…)
But I would absolutely recommend this lake to anyone and everyone. It’s peaceful, it’s serene, you can bring a blanket and picnic basket for a romantic date…
you could invite friends and run or bike.
you could bring your dog (s) on a walk. (they’ll LOVE you… so many other dogs here too!)
i’ve even witnessed a couple that tied up a hammock between two trees and lounged/​snuggled
You could watch the sunset…
I’ve seen paddleboarders, kayakers, canoeists, and fisherman
And also a bunch of canadian geese too…
There is a separate walking/​running path and an outer bike path. It’s usually pretty busy with people — for sure now while the weather is great.
If you can’t tell, clearly i love this lake. It might even be in the top 3 in the state for me. :)

Lake of the isles in two words: veritable oasis
LOTI is not too crowded like Lake Calhoun or too serene like Lake Harriet but seems to always have the perfect amount of people no matter what time of the day/​week it is. I’ve reignited my love/​hate relationship with running and have to say that while the path around the lake has many twists and turns it still is way more relaxing than having to deal with the overabundance of über-​athletes («show-​offs») that frequent Lake Calhoun.
It’s crazy to think that a place like this can exist right next to the hustle and bustle of Uptown/​Downtown. Even if you’re not looking to exercise LOTI is still a great place to meet up with friends to go kayaking, lay out and read a book or bring your pup to their dog park.

MOOOOVE!
Love this place, especially on the weekends for an AM jog. The trail is easy and always a joy to run around in.
Only problem I’ve encountered is that there tends to be an older/​retired crowd early on and they go to walk — slowly. This becomes a problem if there is more than 3 gray or shiny bald heads walking in unison like penguins because they will most likely block your path which will cause you to pause your Pandora and yell, «Excuuuuse Meee!» «Left, Riiiight»
With that said though, this lake is much more enjoyable than Lake Calhoun — half the people there just go to be perverts anyway — even the ladies. I see you. don’t front. yea your blushing ’cause you know it’s true. YOU got GOT!
All in all, Lake of the Isles is a great place but meant more for the serious jogger/​runner just make sure and be prepared to keep on yelling at people to move outta the way.

This is probably my least favorite lake in the Chain of Lakes*, though that is a little like saying Malbec is my least favorite red wine. Even though it’s my least favorite I still enjoy it.
It lacks the energy of Lake Calhoun while also lacking the greenery of Lake Harriet which is why it lands in last place. That said, it is still a great place to go jogging, biking, walking the dog, or sunbathing.
*Unless Cedar Lake is part of the Chain of Lakes. In that case, Cedar Lake comes in last and LOTI is 3^rd.

After a nice lunch at Victor’s 1959 Café, we drove up Lyndale, over towards the Walker Museum and onward to Lake of the Isles. The first marker to that journey was St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, which considering the fancy nature of the homes here, might be considered to be High Anglican. Yet at the same time, we counted no less than 14 homes that were for sale before we completed our loop around this part of Minneapolis’ Chain of Lakes. Now if Gayle and I could just find new jobs and afford this part of town…
Both the walking paths and roads curve around and there’s a new pretty view around every corner. This is one of the places that you would never get tired of looking out the first thing in the morning, at sunset, or during any of the 4 seasons. And although this is a very moneyed neighbourhood, it’s low key, quiet, and welcoming. It’s also a place that I could do some serious contemplation and put situational parts of my life within proper perspective.

Coming through here is certainly a breath of fresh air. Had time to kill before a good friend’s (whom I met while living in Portland) nuptials. At my age, it certainly is a rarity to attend a wedding– for me, attendance is both bittersweet as well as a small injection of hope.
I realize that it will be impossible to do the beauty of this find any justice in attempting a description, but for any folks headed this way, I’d hate for you to miss it. I found this neighborhood beyond subdued, beyond sublime, beyond stunning…
Walking this lake, even in wedding attendance attire, made me feel so elated! The sun on the lake, the # of sunbathers, the joggers, lovely biking couples and serious road bikers… for me, this is the perfect way to spend a day. Everything was so very peaceful.
Not to mention the gorgeous and unique mansions dotting the periphery of this shimmery wonder. There was a nice breeze as I was lost inside my head, thinking of memories locked away and wrestling with thoughts that are always there for me.
Walkers and runners run close-​in to the shore, while bikers have a nicely widened path for riding side-​by-​side, if desired. The path only runs clockwise (aka ONE WAY!).
The lake is large enough so that in strolling it, one would have to give himself at least 1 hour+ to walk the entire circumference (I only got past the ‘knurl’ of it, personally). Given the unfortunate weather that has been plaguing MNans this month, I definitely counted myself extra lucky for the propitious sunny days I experienced on my first-​time visit.
Awe-inspiring…if he were alive, Monet and Manet would be here with their palettes.

Kayaking review — this was the maiden voyage of my new kayak and immediately I wanted to try out this lake. There are two entry spots, but one seems to be geared more towards the residents that keep their boats there, as parking for that spot (west side of lake) is not conductive to hauling a kayak. Where as the entry near the dog park is close, you will be hauling up/​down the hill. After a good lake workout it is a bit trying.
the views are great, the water has quite a bit of weeds and the animals are definitely use to people. I have a beaver/​otter try to dump me out of my kayak — I would like to think it was on accident and that he wasn’t gunning for me.
Lots of areas to explore and great links to the other lakes. I went into each link, but did not go to the other lakes, saving that for another adventure.
Why not 5 stars? I was petrified to fall in, have you read the reviews about the huge monster fish living in there?

I always see people fishing in Lake of the Isles and wonder what the hell kind of lake monsters they are catching… I found out. I figured they would be little guppies, but last fall this guy caught the biggest, beastly looking fish right in front of me. We saw him struggling with his fishing rod and stopped out of curiosity. By the time he finally reeled in his catch, a crowd had gathered with us, we all said, «WTF!» in unison and then we applauded him!
I don’t fish in Lake of the Isles, but I do jog here a lot. Including the distance from my house, it’s my perfect everyday jog (2.8 miles around the lake). I totally agree with everyone (especially Nick L.‘s well-​written review) that it’s a less in-​your-​face lake when compared to Lake Calhoun. The only downside is that less congestion means I have less of an excuse to slow down and be my lazy self.
In contrast, the tennis courts on the north end of the lake are very, very busy. They are great courts, but from about 4:00 p.m. until dark, they are swarming with people. Last summer I went almost every afternoon and our wait times varied from 30 seconds to 40 minutes (even with an ice cold stare down). They are also reserved for lessons one or two days per week, and the instructors will boot you… sometimes after you’ve waited 40 minutes for a court. It’s all very frustrating, but I keep coming back for more because I’m addicted to the racket.