Top 10 Lakes around Mendota
Best lakes around Mendota refers to the lakes in the vicinity of Mendota, Minnesota, a region characterized by its natural waterways and park systems. This area is known for its diverse aquatic environments, including natural lakes, oxbow lakes, and those integrated into urban park systems. The landscape offers opportunities for various outdoor activities, with many trails and viewpoints. The region's geography is shaped by its proximity to major rivers, contributing to its ecological and historical significance.
Best lakes around Mendota
- The most popular lakes is Lake Nokomis, a lake that features a 7.3-mile paved path. This trail is popular for biking, walking, jogging, and inline skating, and is wheelchair accessible.
- Another must-see spot is St. Paul Grand Round, a cycle way that was envisioned as a continuous loop around the city. It links features like Lake Phalen and Lake Como with the Mississippi River.
- Visitors also love Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park, a lake within a park offering many miles of trails. This park is geographically and historically significant, located at the confluence of major rivers.
- Mendota is known for natural lakes, oxbow lakes, and lakes integrated into extensive trail networks. The area offers a variety of aquatic environments for recreation and exploration.
- The lakes around Mendota are appreciated by the komoot community, with 39 upvotes and 2 photos shared by users.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Lake Nokomis
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St. Paul Grand Round
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Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park
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Upper Lake, Crosby Farm Regional Park
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Pickerel Lake
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Tips from the Community
The Lake Nokomis Trail in Minnesota is a 7.3-mile paved path that stretches from Minneapolis to Burnsville, connecting three communities: Minneapolis, Richfield, and Bloomington. This 10-foot-wide trail is popular for biking, walking, jogging, and inline skating, while also being wheelchair accessible. Along its route, the trail passes through parks, residential areas, and near popular attractions like the Mall of America and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. It links to other regional trails, such as the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Minnesota River Greenway, with parking available at various points, including Taft Park and the Cedar Nichols Trailhead. Lake Nokomis spans 204 acres and is a true natural highlight of the trail.
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There are many miles of trails here, some paved and some doubletrack. This park is extremely geographically and historically significant, for it lies along the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. As you explore the forests, lakes, and beaches, know that you are traversing the ancient natural highways of America.
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Upper Lake, the smaller of two lakes in Crosby Farm Regional Park, is surrounded by scenic hiking trails, making it ideal for exploring on foot or mountain biking. Nestled in a serene setting, it provides a peaceful escape for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility amidst nature's beauty.
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Pickerel Lake sits a short distance from the Mississippi River. Which makes sense, because the lake is an "oxbow lake", meaning it was left behind when the river shifted course. These days is a popular spot for fishing, and a number of running and cycling routes.
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St. Paul's Grand Round was envisioned in the late 19th century as a continuous loop around the city of "parked" areas. Landscape architect H.W. S. Cleveland saw the potential of linking Lake Phalen and Lake Como with the Mississippi River, though his plan didn't come to exact fruition, you can still follow the path around the city and visit some of its best features.
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Upper Lake is the smaller one of two lakes in the Crosby Farm Regional Park. It is encircled by nice hiking trails and offers a tranquil setting.
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Well-developed paths for running and cycling.
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Fun ride to Alloy Brewing Co and back
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes near Mendota?
Yes, Lake Nokomis offers a 7.3-mile paved path that is wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for visitors with mobility needs.
Which lakes near Mendota are suitable for families?
Several lakes around Mendota are family-friendly. St. Paul Grand Round, Pickerel Lake, and Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park all offer amenities and environments suitable for family outings, including trails and recreational opportunities.
What kind of trails and outdoor activities can I find around the lakes near Mendota?
The lakes region offers a variety of trails for different activities. You can find paved paths for biking, walking, jogging, and inline skating at Lake Nokomis. St. Paul Grand Round is a cycle way linking several lakes, and Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park has many miles of both paved and doubletrack trails. For more specific routes, explore the easy hikes, running trails, and cycling routes available in the area.
Are there historical sites or significant natural features near the lakes?
Yes, Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park is located at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, making it extremely geographically and historically significant. You can explore forests, lakes, and beaches while traversing ancient natural highways. Additionally, Pickerel Lake is an oxbow lake, formed when the Mississippi River shifted course, offering a unique natural history.
What are some popular cycling routes that connect the lakes?
The St. Paul Grand Round is a notable cycle way that was envisioned as a continuous loop around the city, linking features like Lake Phalen and Lake Como with the Mississippi River. This route allows cyclists to experience several of the region's best features. You can also find more cycling options in the cycling guide for Mendota.
Can I go fishing at the lakes near Mendota?
Yes, Pickerel Lake is known as a popular spot for fishing. Its origin as an oxbow lake of the Mississippi River contributes to its aquatic environment.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Mendota?
Visitors appreciate the diverse aquatic environments and extensive trail networks. Highlights like Lake Nokomis are loved for their paved paths perfect for various activities, while Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park is valued for its historical significance and numerous trails through forests and along beaches. The scenic views, especially from places like the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge, are also highly regarded.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching near the lakes?
Yes, the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge, which offers wide views of the Minnesota River, is a popular spot for birdwatching. Herons, egrets, and other wildlife are frequently seen here, and the bridge connects to trails in the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
What types of lakes are found in the Mendota area?
The Mendota area is characterized by a variety of aquatic environments, including natural lakes, oxbow lakes (like Pickerel Lake), and lakes that are integrated into urban park systems and extensive trail networks.
Can I find easy walking trails around the lakes?
Absolutely. The 7.3-mile paved path at Lake Nokomis is excellent for easy walking. Additionally, easy hiking guides for the Mendota area feature routes like the Pike Island Trail and Crosby Farm Regional Park loop, many of which are suitable for leisurely strolls.
Are there any lakes that are part of a larger park system?
Yes, Snelling Lake is located within Fort Snelling State Park, which offers many miles of trails and is a significant natural and historical area. The St. Paul Grand Round also links several lakes within the city's park system.
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