Bet you didn’t know that Lake Nokomis was once just a shallow marsh. But now, it is a vibrant hub for recreation. Today, we will discover the hidden gems and fascinating history of Lake Nokomis.
Originally named Lake Amelia, it honored Captain George Gooding’s daughter in 1819. But in 1910, it was renamed Lake Nokomis. This was to honor Nokomis, the grandmother of Hiawatha. Lake Nokomis is part of Minneapolis’ Chain of Lakes. It sits west of the Mississippi River and south of Lake Hiawatha. The lake’s oval shape stretches from southwest to northeast.
In 1907, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board bought Lake Nokomis. At that time, the lake was only five feet deep. Much of it was marshland. The board dredged the area to create the lake we see today. By 1924, Lake Nokomis became the most popular swimming beach. It even beat Bde Maka Ska in attendance.
Interestingly, Lake Nokomis played a role in scuba diving history. In 1940, Dr. Chris Lambertsen tested his Lambertsen Amphibious Respiratory Unit here. This was the first rebreather designed in the United States. These dives marked the first closed-circuit oxygen dives in U.S. history. During one dive, Lambertsen experienced oxygen toxicity but surfaced safely.
Today, Lake Nokomis offers many activities. Locals enjoy fishing and sailing. Two sandy beaches provide swimming areas. The park around the lake has paths for walking, running, and cycling. You can also play softball and other sports. The main beach on the northwest side features a restaurant, concessions, and restrooms. Rental equipment and a playground are also available. The smaller beach on the northeast side has portable toilets.
Also consider that the lakebed drops off quickly beyond the swimming areas. This can be dangerous for those swimming outside the ropes. This was a factor in a drowning in 2006. From 1983 to 2000, Lake Nokomis hosted the “Milk Carton Boat Race”. This was part of the Minneapolis Aquatennial celebration. The Life Time Fitness triathlon also takes place here each July.
Up until 1998, large old trees lined the east shore. A severe storm uprooted them. Lake Nokomis is home to various fish species. These include black bullhead, largemouth bass, and walleye. Due to mercury contamination, there are some fish consumption advisories for walleye and white sucker.
Less crowded than other Twin Cities parks, Lake Nokomis Park has many offerings. You can rent canoes, kayaks, boats, and paddle boards. Paddlesculpt offers stand-up paddle board yoga classes on the lake. The 4-acre Lake Nokomis Naturescape Garden features native flowers and plants. It is a certified monarch butterfly waystation. The Minneapolis Monarch Festival occurs here every September. Sandcastle restaurant serves food right on the shore. It is a great place to enjoy American eats.
Before we conclude our walk today, remember that Lake Nokomis is more than just a lake. It is a place of recreation, history, and natural beauty. Next time you are here, take a moment to appreciate the rich story of this Minneapolis gem.