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Beaches and ponds

Cedar Lake East Beach

4.6 · 380 reviews
Local, recreational, and neighborhood-focused.
Cedar Lake East Beach, 2000 S Upton Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55405, 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 part of a larger interconnected park system that allows for continuous cycling and walking paths throughout the city's southwest quadrant.

3

Cedar Lake features a designated off-leash dog area nearby, though it is physically separated from the main swimming beach zones.

4

The lake serves as a significant stopover for migratory waterfowl due to its proximity to established regional wetlands.

5

Water quality is monitored regularly by the Minneapolis Park Board throughout the summer months to ensure safe swimming conditions.

Overview

Cedar Lake East Beach is one of three swimming beaches located on the eastern shore of Cedar Lake in Minneapolis. The site provides a sandy shoreline for public swimming and fishing access within the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Regional Park system. It is connected to a network of paved trails that encircle the lake, facilitating movement between Cedar, Lake of the Isles, and Bde Maka Ska. The beach area features water access points, natural surroundings, and views of the Minneapolis skyline from the water. It operates as part of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board managed municipal facilities.

Photo spot

The shoreline edge looking toward the water at sunset for the silhouette of the city skyline.

Insider tips

Bring a portable chair, as the sand area can be limited during peak capacity days.

Utilize the connecting Cedar Lake Trail for bike access, but ensure you have a cable lock as the bike racks fill up quickly.

Carry out all trash to help maintain the water quality, as high traffic levels can strain local disposal infrastructure.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to swim outside of the buoy-marked areas, as drop-offs in the lake bed can be sudden and significant.

Good to know

Lifeguards are only present during the summer season; swimming is unsupervised outside of these periods.

Etiquette

Alcohol, glass containers, and amplified music are prohibited on park property; pets are not allowed on the designated beach sand.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in mid-summer for the clearest water and fewest crowds.
Address
Cedar Lake East Beach, 2000 S Upton Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55405, United States
44.961, -93.318
Get directions
Details
Swimming & RecreationPublic beach with buoy-marked swimming zones
FacilitiesFishing access and proximity to regional bike trails

Frequently asked

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

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in mid-summer for the clearest water and fewest crowds..

The shoreline edge looking toward the water at sunset for the silhouette of the city skyline.

Close by you'll find Bde Maka Ska, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, Cedar Lake Point Beach.