Prior Lake

What secrets do the blue banks hold? Prior Lake shimmers before us, a sprawling body of water reflecting the Minnesota sky. It’s a beautiful sight, tranquil and inviting. But beneath its placid surface lies a rich tapestry of history, whispering tales of the Dakota people who first called this place home. They named it Bdė Mayá Thó, “Lake of the Blue Banks,” a name that evokes a sense of mystery and reverence. Prior Lake, as it’s now known, still echoes with the spirit of those early inhabitants. The lake stretches across over 1100 acres, divided into Upper and Lower Prior Lake, connected by a channel flowing under Eagle Creek Avenue. The lake’s modern name honors Charles Prior of the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad. But the spirit of Bdė Mayá Thó persists. Imagine the Dakota people traversing these waters, their canoes slicing through the clear surface. They fished these waters and celebrated their connection to this life-giving source. Today, Prior Lake continues to draw people to its shores. It’s a haven for fishing enthusiasts, a playground for water sports lovers, and in winter, a thrilling course for snowmobilers speeding along the Scott County Snowmobile Trail. But the lake also harbors a less welcome guest. In 2009, the invasive zebra mussel was discovered, a stark reminder of the delicate balance of this ecosystem. Prior Lake is more than just a body of water. It’s the heart of a thriving community, a city of over 27,000 people. This city, established in 1891, is one of the oldest in the south metro area. Its growth is fueled in part by its convenient location, offering easy access to Minneapolis via the upgraded State Highway 13. As you gaze across Prior Lake, remember the stories it holds. From the ancient whispers of Bdė Mayá Thó to the modern hum of a growing city, Prior Lake remains a place of connection, recreation, and a testament to the enduring power of nature.