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Parks #20 in Minneapolis

Cedar Lake Point Beach

4.6 · 1,251 reviews
A quiet, residential-adjacent local retreat.
Cedar Lake Point Beach, Cedar Lake Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55416, United States
Interesting facts
1

Cedar Lake is the deepest of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, reaching depths of approximately 51 feet.

2

The beach is one of three designated swimming beaches on Cedar Lake, often considered the quietest compared to East Cedar Beach.

3

The surrounding park trails are part of the 55-mile Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway, one of the longest continuous parkway systems in the U.S.

4

Cedar Lake is connected to Lake of the Isles via a bridge and channel system accessible to paddlers.

5

The lake hosts a unique 'floating bog' area in the northern section that provides specialized habitat for local bird species.

Overview

Cedar Lake Point Beach is a secluded swimming spot situated on the eastern shore of Cedar Lake within the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Regional Park system. The site features a sandy beach area characterized by its calm waters, surrounded by dense residential tree lines that provide a buffer from urban noise. It serves as a primary access point for the interconnected trails of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway. The beach is maintained by the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board and is part of a larger aquatic network including Brownie and Isles lakes. Water quality monitoring is conducted regularly throughout the summer season to ensure recreational safety. The site provides minimal infrastructure, focusing on natural access rather than developed facilities.

Photo spot

The wooden footbridge nearby offering a panoramic view of the lake shoreline and the city skyline in the distance.

Insider tips

Bring portable shade, as the beach area has limited natural tree cover directly on the sand.

Check the Minneapolis Park Board website for real-time water quality status and potential swimming closures before arrival.

Utilize the nearby Cedar Lake trail loops to combine swimming with a longer hike or bike ride.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to park on local residential streets near the lake as enforcement is strict; use designated park parking lots.

Good to know

Lifeguards are generally not on duty at this location; swimming is restricted to the summer season when water quality permits.

Etiquette

Carry-in, carry-out trash policy applies; glass containers are prohibited on the beach.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in mid-summer to avoid peak crowds and ensure easier access to the limited shore space.
Address
Cedar Lake Point Beach, Cedar Lake Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55416, United States
44.960, -93.323
Get directions
Details
Shade & rest areasLimited sandy beach area with adjacent wooded trails and park benches.
Water accessDirect access to Cedar Lake for swimming and small watercraft.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in mid-summer to avoid peak crowds and ensure easier access to the limited shore space..

The wooden footbridge nearby offering a panoramic view of the lake shoreline and the city skyline in the distance.

Close by you'll find Bde Maka Ska, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, Minneapolis Institute of Art.