As Minnesotans, our relationship with water runs deep – it’s part of our heritage, our recreation, and our landscape. The state boasts over 11,800 lakes—more shorelines than California, Florida, and Hawaii combined. From the largest, Lake Superior, to the smallest unnamed pond, each body of water provides unique opportunities to appreciate nature, get some exercise, and have some fun. Among these numerous options, there are five lake activities that stand out as iconic, and that everyone, from lifelong residents to weekend visitors, should make a point to try.
1. Canoeing & Kayaking
Canoeing and kayaking are two of the most intrinsic activities that one can enjoy on Minnesota’s lakes. There’s something primal about navigating water in a mode of transportation that humans have used for thousands of years. These crafts offer a close connection to the water, a sense of tranquility, and a means of exploration that’s both peaceful and exhilarating.
The Boundary Waters Canoeing Area Wilderness (BWCAW) in northeastern Minnesota is a canoeist’s paradise. A protected area of over a million acres, the BWCAW has over 1,000 lakes and 1200 miles of canoe routes. No motors are allowed—only the paddle’s splash disturbs the stillness of the crystal waters. With over 2,000 ruggedly beautiful backcountry campsites, you can enjoy an extended canoe-camping trip in solitude, paddling and portaging from one lake to the next.
However, you don’t have to go deep into the wilderness to enjoy canoeing or kayaking. Metropolitan areas like Minneapolis and St. Paul offer surprising paddling opportunities on lakes and rivers within city limits. Chain of Lakes, specifically within the Minneapolis Park, has multiple starting points for a pleasant afternoon glide through calm, connected waters.
2. Fishing
Fishing is a classic Minnesota lake activity. Each season and each type of lake offer different opportunities to cast a line, whether you’re out for trophy fish or a peaceful day of leisure activity.
Rainbow trout await in the cold, deep Blue Lake in North Chisago, perfect for on-the-ice winter fishing while Lake Mille Lacs, one of the state’s largest, is renowned for its walleye fishing. For the uninitiated, many Minnesota resorts offer guided fishing excursions, helping newcomers navigate the state’s varied fishing seasons and regulations.
Social bonds often form around fishing—families, friends, and even communities come together to share stories and tactics. Whether you are practicing catch and release type fishing or you’re aiming for a freshly grilled lakeside dinner, there’s a pleasure to be gained from the simplicity and peacefulness of this activity.
3. Water-Skiing & Wakeboarding
For a more adrenaline-fueled lake experience, there’s water-skiing and wakeboarding. This activity combines physical skill, balance, speed, and an exciting interaction with water and waves. Many Minnesotans learn to ski young, practicing on the smooth surfaces of enclosed bays and small lakes, whereas competitive skiers seek out larger, open waters.
Minnesota’s Lake City claims to be the birthplace of water-skiing, and the sport remains a popular pastime across the state. While motor-free zones are increasing in numbers, there are still scores of lakes where skiing is popular. Lake Minnetonka and Detroit Lakes are two key waterways for skilled skiers and wake-boarders.
4. Sailing & Windsurfing
Harness the power of the wind to traverse Minnesota’s lakes by sailing or windsurfing. With the right wind conditions, these activities can offer some of the most tantalizing blend of leisure and excitement. You’ll experience the thrill of speed, the challenge of maneuvering, and the calming rhythm of the winds and waves.
Lake Pepin—a naturally occurring lake along the course of the Mississippi River—has a reputation for perfect sailing conditions. The lake’s width and geographical orientation capture wind currents, creating a consistent stretch of wind that’s ideal for strapping on a sail. It’s also home to the oldest yacht club in Minnesota, the Lake City Yacht Club, embodying the state’s deep-rooted sailing tradition.
Meanwhile, Mille Lacs is a hotspot for windsurfers, known for its strong gusty winds and large waves. The vast, open expanse of water provides a playground for thrill-seekers dancing with the wind.
5. Swimming & Beach Fun
Lastly, no summer is complete without a day at the beach. From leisurely swimming in calm, clear waters to building sandcastles on the shore, there’s an innate joy in simple beach activities. Minnesota’s many lakes offer pristine patches of sand and inviting waters for everyone to enjoy the sun-soaked days.
The sandy beaches of Park Point on Lake Superior, Izatys Beach on Mille Lacs Lake, or Main Beach on Excelsior Commons on Minnetonka Lake, provide a wonderful backdrop for summer fun. Some of our state’s beaches even offer additional amenities such as volleyball nets, picnic tables, and grills for a complete family day out.
In conclusion, Minnesota’s thousands of lakes are integral to the state’s identity, casting a spell that draws us to their shores year-round. Whether you’re into peaceful canoe trips, adrenaline-pumping water-ski or mesmerizing fishing sessions, there’s something for everyone. Experiencing these five iconic lake activities will not only give you a sensational connection to nature, but also an authentic taste of why Minnesota is genuinely the ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes.’ The lakes are waiting—are you ready to dive in?
