Brownie Lake Park

A Natural Oasis

Brownie Lake Park is a 27.66-acre urban park located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Situated in the Bryn-Mawr neighborhood, it is part of the larger Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Regional Park system.

The park is centered around Brownie Lake, the smallest and northernmost link in the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Brownie Lake itself is a unique body of water, classified as a meromictic lake, which means it has two distinct layers of water that do not intermix during spring and fall, unlike most lakes in the northern temperate zone.

Scenic Landscape

The lake is surrounded by steep, wooded slopes, providing a scenic and somewhat secluded environment within the city. This natural setting creates a peaceful retreat from urban life.

Recreational Activities

A packed dirt walking path encircles the lake, allowing for peaceful strolls through nature. For more adventurous visitors, a 1.4-mile single track mountain biking trail, known as the first "Black Diamond" trail in Minneapolis, loops along the western slope of the Brownie Lake basin.

This trail, built in 2016, connects to other biking routes in the area. Water activities are also popular at Brownie Lake Park.

Water Activities

While motorized boats are not permitted, the lake is available for canoeing and kayaking. A canoe launch and storage rack are located on the north side of the lake.

Fishing is another common activity, with the lake home to various fish species.

Winter Recreation

In winter, the park transforms for cold-weather activities. The Chain of Lakes Ski Trail extends across the lake and up its western side, connecting to the Theodore Wirth Park trails.

These winter trails are maintained through a partnership between the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and the Loppet Foundation.