Recall those summer days. The sun warms your skin as you stand here at Bde Maka Ska North Beach. Bde Maka Ska is more than just a lake. It is a place rich in history and outdoor fun. Let’s dive into the story of this Minneapolis gem.
Bde Maka Ska is the largest lake in Minneapolis. It is part of the Chain of Lakes. This chain includes Lake of the Isles and Cedar Lake. Theodore Wirth connected Bde Maka Ska to Lake of the Isles via a canal in 1911. Cedar Lake joined in 1913. This sparked a canoeing trend.
The Dakota people first called it Bdé Makhá Ska. This means White Earth Lake. Settlers later renamed it Lake Calhoun. This honored John C. Calhoun a U.S. Secretary of War.
However Calhoun’s legacy is complex. He was a slave owner. This led to a push to restore the original Dakota name. In 2018 the name officially became Bde Maka Ska again. This honors the lake’s indigenous roots.
Bde Maka Ska is surrounded by parkland. Trails loop around the lake for bikers and walkers. The bike trail is 3.4 miles. The walking path is 3.2 miles. These trails connect to Lake of the Isles and Lake Harriet.
Bde Maka Ska North Beach is just one of three beaches on Bde Maka Ska. Thirty-second Street Beach and Thomas Beach are the others. Here you can swim and enjoy the water.
You can rent canoes and kayaks. You can explore the Chain of Lakes by water. You can paddle from one lake to another. Lake Harriet is not connected because of an elevation difference.
Bde Maka Ska is a fishing hot spot too. You can catch walleye northern pike and crappies. In 1991 a record tiger muskie was caught here. It weighed over 33 pounds.
There are some restrictions for eating fish. This is due to mercury levels. Be sure to check guidelines.
This area is great for picnics and volleyball. Athletic fields offer space to play. You can relax and watch the sunset. South Harriet and East Bde Maka Ska are especially good for sunsets.
Remember to respect the lake. It is a special place. Bde Maka Ska combines natural beauty with a rich past. Enjoy your time here.