Top 18 Lakes around Falcon Heights
Best lakes around Falcon Heights are easily accessible, despite the city not having major lakes directly within its municipal boundaries. Falcon Heights is a smaller city situated between Minneapolis and Saint Paul, offering residents and visitors access to several notable lakes in the surrounding metropolitan area. These lakes provide a variety of recreational opportunities and natural landscapes.
Best lakes around Falcon Heights
- The most popular lakes is Lake Nokomis, a lake known for its 7.3-mile paved trail system, popular for biking, walking, and inline skating, and is wheelchair accessible. It spans 204 acres and offers beaches, fishing, and boating opportunities within an urban setting.
- Another must-see spot is Como Lake, a lake that was originally a wetland and is now part of Como Park. Recent efforts to improve water quality have reduced algae blooms. Visitors can enjoy a paved path encircling the lake, paddleboat rentals, and family-friendly attractions nearby.
- Visitors also love Lake Phalen, a lake that is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. It is popular with water sports enthusiasts and hosts the annual Dragon Boat Festival each July. The lake offers amenities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Falcon Heights is known for urban lakes, lakes with extensive trail systems, and lakes suitable for water sports. These lakes offer diverse recreational activities, from active recreation like biking and paddling to serene environments for strolls and picnics.
- The lakes around Falcon Heights are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 10 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
Lake Nokomis
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Lake Phalen
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Como Lake
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St. Paul Grand Round
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Saint Paul-Changsha China Friendship Garden
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Tips from the Community
Saint Paul–Changsha China Friendship Garden is a beautiful scape with it's Chinese-style pavilions, koi pond, and lush plantings provide a calm, meditative backdrop. A perfect spot to pause, stretch, and take in the carefully designed landscape before continuing your journey.
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The Lake Nokomis Trail in Minnesota is a 7.3-mile paved path that stretches from Minneapolis to Burnsville, connecting three communities: Minneapolis, Richfield, and Bloomington. This 10-foot-wide trail is popular for biking, walking, jogging, and inline skating, while also being wheelchair accessible. Along its route, the trail passes through parks, residential areas, and near popular attractions like the Mall of America and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. It links to other regional trails, such as the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Minnesota River Greenway, with parking available at various points, including Taft Park and the Cedar Nichols Trailhead. Lake Nokomis spans 204 acres and is a true natural highlight of the trail.
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Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek, and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which takes place each July.
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St. Paul's Grand Round was envisioned in the late 19th century as a continuous loop around the city of "parked" areas. Landscape architect H.W. S. Cleveland saw the potential of linking Lake Phalen and Lake Como with the Mississippi River, though his plan didn't come to exact fruition, you can still follow the path around the city and visit some of its best features.
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This lake was originally a wetland that was expanded when the surrounding park was developed. It is fed by storm sewer water run off, which for years resulted in algae blooms in the summer which produced a not-so-pleasant smell. However, recent efforts to improve the water quality, such as replacing invasive species with native plants and other filtration systems have greatly reduced the amount of algae blooms.
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Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which take place each July.
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Nice location for a picnic. The pagoda adds extra interest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Falcon Heights offer wheelchair-accessible paths?
For those seeking wheelchair-accessible options, Lake Nokomis is an excellent choice. It features a 7.3-mile paved trail system that is specifically noted as wheelchair accessible, making it ideal for enjoying the outdoors.
Are there family-friendly lakes with walking trails near Falcon Heights?
Yes, several lakes offer great options for families. Como Lake has a paved path encircling it, perfect for leisurely family strolls, and is part of Como Park which includes a zoo and conservatory. Lake Phalen also offers family-friendly amenities, including beaches and opportunities for swimming.
What kind of water sports can I do at the lakes near Falcon Heights?
The lakes around Falcon Heights are great for water sports. Lake Phalen is particularly popular for various water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming, and even hosts the annual Dragon Boat Festival. At Como Lake, you can often find paddleboat and canoe rentals available.
Where can I find easy hiking trails near the lakes?
You can find easy hiking trails near the lakes, such as the Como Lake Trail, which is an easy 2.9 km loop. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Falcon Heights guide, which includes routes like the Reservoir Woods Loop and Mississippi Gorge Trail loop.
Are there opportunities for cycling or biking around the lakes?
Absolutely. Lake Nokomis features a 7.3-mile paved trail system that is very popular for biking. Additionally, the St. Paul Grand Round connects Como Lake and Lake Phalen with the Mississippi River, offering extensive cycling opportunities.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Falcon Heights?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for water sports, swimming, and events like the Dragon Boat Festival at Lake Phalen. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for walking, jogging, and biking around the lake paths. While not explicitly mentioned for ice skating, winter can transform the lakes into scenic, tranquil landscapes.
Can I go fishing at the lakes near Falcon Heights?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at several lakes. Both Lake Phalen and Lake Nokomis offer opportunities for fishing, providing a relaxing way to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Are there any unique cultural or historical sites near the lakes?
While the lakes themselves are natural features, the Saint Paul-Changsha China Friendship Garden is a notable cultural site located near a lake. It offers a calm, meditative backdrop with Chinese-style pavilions, a koi pond, and lush plantings, perfect for a peaceful pause.
What are some options for running trails near the lakes?
Many lakes offer excellent running trails. The Como Park loop is a moderate 5.1 km run, and the Central Park loop is a moderate 5.8 km run. You can find more detailed running routes in the Running Trails around Falcon Heights guide.
What makes Como Lake a popular spot for visitors?
Como Lake is popular due to its picturesque setting within Como Park, which also includes the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Its accessibility, serene environment for leisurely strolls on the paved path, and family-friendly attractions make it a favorite.
What kind of natural beauty can I expect to see around Lake Nokomis?
Lake Nokomis is considered a significant natural highlight within Minneapolis's park system. Spanning 204 acres, it offers beautiful lake views, beaches, and is part of an extensive trail system that connects to other regional trails like the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, providing a blend of urban nature and active recreation.
Are there any events or festivals held at the lakes?
Yes, Lake Phalen is well-known for its vibrant atmosphere and hosts the annual Dragon Boat Festival every July, making it a lively spot for visitors during that time.
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