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Lake Nokomis Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 3,022 Google reviews · Running trail in Minneapolis, Minnesota · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Lake Nokomis Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Popular park providing sailing, paddlesport rentals, concessions, a community center & playground.
What runners say about Lake Nokomis Park
“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.”
“What a beautiful day for a walk and what a beautiful path around the lake!”
“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.”
“Beautifully quiet for any recreational activity in the early morning.”
“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.”
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.
The best part of this park is the diversity of people that come here. It is so amazing. Such a friendly place to visit. A friendly park and so very enjoyable to see and talk to people or to walk quietly with your headset on. Plenty of parking both paid and free.
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.
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.
Trail conditions & character
“There is food available to purchase, big place to sit and eat and enjoy the view of the lake.”
“The other beach is much smaller, very family friendly and has porta potties.”
“nicely laid out, lots of parking and clearly marked signage everywhere.”
“Beautifully quiet for any recreational activity in the early morning.”
“The paved paths around the lake are perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, offering picturesque views at every turn.”
“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.”
Plan your run at Lake Nokomis Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteminneapolisparks.org
- Phone+1 612-370-4923
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 5 am–10 pm |
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