Bde Maka Ska

The biggest lake in Minneapolis and the beating heart of the Chain of Lakes — a roughly 3-mile paved loop for walking, running, and biking, plus beaches, sailboats, and downtown skyline views from the northeast shore. Free, gorgeous, and exactly how locals spend summer evenings. Weekend paths get genuinely busy; go early or on foot.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is Bde Maka Ska good in winter?

Different but great — locals walk the plowed paths, ice-fish, and cross-country ski. Dress like you mean it and you'll have skyline views nearly to yourself.

How long is the loop around Bde Maka Ska?

About 3.2 miles on paved paths, with separate lanes for pedestrians and bikes (bikes go one-way, counterclockwise). Flat, scenic, and doable for pretty much anyone.

Why did Lake Calhoun change its name?

Bde Maka Ska — Dakota for 'White Earth Lake' — is the lake's original name, officially restored in 2018 to replace the name honoring John C. Calhoun, a defender of slavery. You'll still hear old-timers say Calhoun, but the signs and locals have largely moved on.

Does the lake connect to other lakes?

Yes — it's the anchor of the Chain of Lakes, linked by paths and channels to Lake of the Isles and Cedar Lake, with Lake Harriet just south. You can walk, bike, or even canoe between them.

Can I rent a kayak or paddleboard on Bde Maka Ska?

Yes, seasonal rentals (kayaks, SUPs, pedal boats) operate from the lake's shore in summer, and there's an active sailing scene too. Being on the water with the skyline behind you is the money view.

Where do I park at Bde Maka Ska?

Pay lots dot the parkway plus free neighborhood street parking if you hunt. Summer weekends fill by late morning — biking in on the Midtown Greenway is the pro move.

Can I swim in Bde Maka Ska?

Yes — Thomas Beach on the south shore is the main lifeguarded beach in summer, and the water quality is generally good for an urban lake. Beaches occasionally close briefly after heavy rain; check the Park Board's status page.

Is there food at Bde Maka Ska?

There's a seasonal pavilion restaurant on the northeast shore plus easy access to Uptown's restaurants a few blocks away. Grabbing takeout and a lakeside bench is standard local procedure.

Nearby in Ask Minneapolis

• Chain of Lakes (Lake Calhoun / Bde Maka Ska & Lake Harriet)Attraction0.29 km · 4 min walk
• Thomas Beach at Bde Maka SkaBeach0.5 km · 6 min walk
• Bakken MuseumMuseum0.93 km · 12 min walk
• UptownNeighborhood1.23 km · 15 min walk
• Lake Harriet North BeachBeach1.67 km · 21 min walk