How to Hike Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails

The Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails represent one of Minneapolis’s most cherished urban greenway networks, weaving together a series of lakes, parks, and scenic pathways that connect the neighborhoods of Calhoun and Isles. Spanning over 10 miles of interconnected trails, this route offers hikers a seamless blend of natural beauty, urban charm, and recreational accessibility. Unlike traditional wilderness hikes, the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails are designed for everyday exploration—perfect for casual walkers, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape without leaving the city. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor discovering Minneapolis for the first time, understanding how to navigate these trails efficiently and safely enhances your experience and deepens your connection to the city’s ecological and cultural landscape.

What makes the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails unique is their integration of three major lakes—Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun), Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles—along with smaller water bodies, wooded corridors, and historic landmarks. The trails are maintained by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and are part of the larger Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway system. This means they’re not only well-marked and frequently patrolled but also rich in interpretive signage, public art, and community events that enrich the journey. Hiking these trails isn’t just about physical movement; it’s about engaging with the rhythm of the city through its green spaces.

Learning how to hike the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails properly ensures you maximize enjoyment while minimizing disruption to wildlife, fellow trail users, and the environment. It also helps you avoid common pitfalls such as getting lost on poorly marked connectors, underestimating terrain changes, or missing key access points. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to planning, preparing for, and completing your hike with confidence, whether you’re tackling the full loop or a shorter segment. By the end, you’ll know not only the route but also the culture, etiquette, and resources that make this trail system a model of urban trail design.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Trail Network Layout

Before setting foot on the trail, take time to mentally map the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails. The system consists of four primary segments: the Bde Maka Ska Loop, the Lake Harriet Loop, the Lake of the Isles Connector, and the Chain of Lakes Parkway. These are not isolated paths but a continuous network with multiple entry and exit points. The full loop—starting at the southeast corner of Bde Maka Ska, circling the lake, crossing the bridge to Lake Harriet, proceeding to Lake of the Isles, and returning via the north shore—measures approximately 10.5 miles. Most hikers complete it in 3.5 to 5 hours at a moderate pace.

Key landmarks to note include the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion, the Lake Harriet Bandshell, the Pillsbury Point Bridge, and the 36th Street Pedestrian Bridge. These serve as natural waypoints and rest stops. Use a digital map app like AllTrails or Google Maps (with offline download) to visualize the route. Pay special attention to the connectors: the trail between Lake Harriet and Lake of the Isles runs along the south shore of Lake of the Isles and crosses under the 36th Street Bridge via a dedicated pedestrian tunnel. This section is often missed by newcomers, so mark it clearly on your mental map.

Step 2: Choose Your Starting Point and Direction

There is no single “correct” starting point, but your choice affects your experience. Most hikers begin at the southeast corner of Bde Maka Ska near the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion, due to ample parking and public transit access. Starting here allows you to hike clockwise, which is the most intuitive direction—most signage and trail markers follow this flow. Clockwise hiking also keeps you on the right side of the path, aligning with local trail etiquette where faster users (cyclists, runners) pass on the left.

Alternatively, beginning at Lake Harriet’s west end near the Bandshell offers a gentler initial climb and immediate access to amenities like restrooms and water fountains. If you’re short on time, consider starting at the 36th Street Bridge and hiking only the Lake of the Isles to Lake Harriet segment—a 2.5-mile out-and-back that captures the essence of the chain with minimal commitment.

Step 3: Prepare Your Gear Appropriately

While the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails are urban and well-maintained, proper gear ensures comfort and safety. Wear moisture-wicking, breathable clothing suitable for the season. In summer, opt for lightweight shorts and a sun hat; in winter, layer with thermal base layers and insulated waterproof boots. Always carry a small daypack with essentials: water (at least 16 oz per person), a light snack (nuts, energy bars), sunscreen, and insect repellent. Even on overcast days, UV exposure is significant near reflective water surfaces.

Footwear is critical. Trail runners or sturdy walking shoes with good grip are ideal. The trails are mostly paved or compacted gravel, but sections near water edges can be muddy after rain. Avoid sandals or dress shoes. A lightweight walking stick is optional but helpful for stability on uneven patches or when navigating stairs near the Pillsbury Point Bridge.

Step 4: Check Weather and Trail Conditions

Minneapolis weather can shift rapidly. Before heading out, consult the National Weather Service for current conditions and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s official trail status page. In spring, snowmelt can flood low-lying sections near the lakeshore. In fall, leaves may obscure trail markers, especially on the wooded stretches between Lake Harriet and Lake of the Isles. Winter hiking is possible with proper gear—many locals enjoy the trails when snow-covered, but ice cleats are strongly recommended from December through February.

Check for closures due to events such as the Lake Harriet Concert Series or the Bde Maka Ska Winter Festival. These typically occur on weekends and may temporarily close specific trail segments. The Park Board’s website and Twitter account (@MinneapolisParks) provide real-time updates.

Step 5: Begin Your Hike with Proper Etiquette

As you start your hike, observe trail signs indicating right-of-way rules. Pedestrians have priority over cyclists, but cyclists have priority over joggers. Announce your presence politely when passing—“On your left!” is the standard phrase. Keep noise levels low, especially near bird habitats and quiet zones marked by signage. Avoid feeding wildlife; ducks and geese are common, but human food harms their health and encourages dependency.

Stay on designated paths. Cutting across grassy areas to shorten distance damages native plantings and contributes to erosion. Use designated access points for entering or exiting the trail. If you’re hiking with a dog, keep it leashed at all times—this is enforced by city ordinance. Pick up after your pet using biodegradable bags available at kiosks near major trailheads.

Step 6: Navigate Key Intersections and Transitions

The most confusing junctions occur at the convergence of the Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet trails. After circling Bde Maka Ska, follow signs for “Lake Harriet via Pillsbury Point Bridge.” This bridge is wide and elevated, offering panoramic views. Once across, continue straight on the paved path that hugs the northern shore of Lake Harriet. Do not turn left toward the beach—this leads to a picnic area, not the main trail.

At the west end of Lake Harriet, the trail narrows slightly as it enters a tree-lined corridor. Follow the yellow trail markers on utility poles and fence posts. After approximately 0.6 miles, you’ll reach the 36th Street Pedestrian Bridge. The trail dips underground here—follow the concrete ramp down into the tunnel. Emerging on the other side, you’ll be on the southern edge of Lake of the Isles. Look for the sign “Lake of the Isles Trail” and turn right to continue the loop.

On the return leg, follow the north shore of Lake of the Isles back toward Bde Maka Ska. The final stretch along the east shore of Bde Maka Ska is the most scenic, with open water views and benches every 200 yards. Take your time here—many hikers choose to end their journey with a quiet moment at the pavilion, watching the sunset.

Step 7: Complete Your Hike and Reflect

When you return to your starting point, take a moment to reflect. Note what you enjoyed, what felt challenging, and what you’d change next time. Did you miss a viewpoint? Was the trail too crowded? Did you forget to bring a camera? Jotting down these observations helps refine future hikes.

Consider logging your hike on a platform like AllTrails or Strava. Sharing your experience helps others and contributes to community knowledge. Many local hiking groups use these platforms to organize group walks—this is a great way to meet fellow enthusiasts and learn new routes.

Best Practices

Timing Your Hike for Optimal Experience

One of the most overlooked aspects of hiking the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails is timing. Early mornings—between 6:00 and 8:30 a.m.—offer the quietest conditions. You’ll encounter fewer cyclists and joggers, and the light over the lakes is soft and golden, ideal for photography. Midday hikes (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) are best avoided in summer due to intense sun exposure and higher foot traffic. Late afternoons (4–6 p.m.) are popular with commuters and families, so expect moderate congestion.

Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends. If you’re seeking solitude, aim for Tuesday through Thursday. Saturday mornings see the highest volume, especially during peak seasons (May–October). For a truly immersive experience, consider hiking during twilight hours in late spring or early fall, when the air is cool and the sky glows with pastel hues.

Respecting Wildlife and Natural Habitats

The lakes and surrounding woodlands support a rich ecosystem. Great blue herons, red-winged blackbirds, beavers, and even the occasional fox inhabit the area. Maintain a distance of at least 20 feet from wildlife. Do not attempt to feed or approach them. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements near nesting areas, especially between April and July. Stick to the trail to prevent trampling native wildflowers such as blue flag iris and prairie smoke.

Be mindful of invasive species. Some plants, like purple loosestrife and buckthorn, are marked with signage. Do not pick or transport plant material. If you spot an invasive plant in bloom, report it to the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s invasive species hotline via their website.

Hydration and Nutrition on the Trail

Even short hikes can dehydrate you, especially in humid summer months or during brisk winter walks. Carry water regardless of the distance. Many trailheads have water fountains, but they are not always operational in colder months. Bring electrolyte tablets or a sports drink if you plan to hike longer than 3 miles.

Snacks should be lightweight and non-perishable. Trail mix, dried fruit, granola bars, and whole-grain crackers are ideal. Avoid messy foods like sandwiches or chips—they attract pests and are difficult to clean up. If you plan to eat on a bench, pack out all trash. Use designated waste bins, and never leave food wrappers or napkins behind.

Trail Etiquette for Shared Spaces

The Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails are shared by pedestrians, cyclists, joggers, and in-line skaters. Everyone has the right to use the trail, but mutual respect ensures safety and enjoyment. Always yield to those moving faster. When stopping to rest or take photos, move to the side of the trail. Avoid blocking the path with backpacks or strollers.

Use headphones at low volume if listening to music. Be aware of your surroundings—trail users often call out to warn of approaching cyclists. Children should be supervised closely, especially near water. If you’re walking with a group, stay single-file to allow others to pass easily.

Seasonal Adjustments for Comfort and Safety

Each season brings unique challenges and opportunities. In spring, expect wet, muddy trails and lingering ice patches. Wear waterproof footwear and carry a small towel to wipe off mud before re-entering your vehicle. In summer, apply sunscreen every two hours and wear UV-blocking sunglasses. Carry a reusable water bottle to refill at fountains—plastic waste is a growing concern.

Autumn offers crisp air and stunning foliage, but fallen leaves can hide trip hazards. Watch your step, especially on gravel paths. In winter, the trails are often snowplowed and salted, but icy patches remain. Invest in traction cleats (like Yaktrax) for your boots. Dress in layers that you can remove as you warm up. Never hike alone in winter unless you’re experienced—inform someone of your route and expected return time.

Tools and Resources

Digital Mapping and Navigation Apps

Technology enhances your hiking experience. Download the AllTrails app and search for “Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails.” The app provides user-submitted photos, recent trail condition reports, elevation profiles, and estimated completion times. The GPS tracking feature helps you stay on course and return to your starting point if you get disoriented.

Google Maps also offers an excellent offline mode. Download the entire Chain of Lakes area before you leave home. The “Bike” layer shows bike lanes and shared paths, which helps you distinguish between pedestrian-only zones and mixed-use corridors. For those who prefer paper, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board offers a free printed map at visitor centers near Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet.

Official Trail Resources

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) website (minneapolisparks.org) is the most authoritative source for trail updates, event calendars, and maintenance schedules. Their “Trails and Paths” section includes downloadable PDF maps, accessibility information, and safety advisories. The MPRB also maintains a trail hotline: call (612) 230-6400 for recorded updates on conditions.

The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway website (grandrounds.org) provides historical context, including the origins of the trail system designed by landscape architect Horace Cleveland in the 1880s. This background enriches your hike with cultural significance.

Community and Volunteer Opportunities

Joining a local hiking or conservation group deepens your connection to the trails. Organizations like Friends of the Chain of Lakes and Minneapolis Hiking Club organize monthly guided walks, trail cleanups, and educational workshops. These are open to all skill levels and often include free gear lending (e.g., walking poles, binoculars).

Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back. The MPRB recruits trail stewards to monitor conditions, report hazards, and assist visitors. Training is provided, and shifts are flexible. Many volunteers report that their understanding of the trails—and their appreciation for the city’s green infrastructure—grows exponentially through hands-on involvement.

Accessibility and Inclusive Resources

The Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails are among the most accessible urban trail systems in the U.S. Most segments are paved and ADA-compliant. Wheelchair users and families with strollers can navigate the entire loop with minimal difficulty. The MPRB provides free mobility device rentals (e.g., all-terrain wheelchairs) at select locations—call ahead to reserve.

For visually impaired hikers, tactile paving is installed at major intersections. Audio descriptions of the trail are available via the MPRB’s mobile app, which includes narration of key landmarks and ecological features. Service animals are welcome on all trails.

Photography and Journaling Tools

The trails offer endless photographic opportunities—from sunrise reflections on Bde Maka Ska to the golden light filtering through autumn maples. A lightweight tripod or phone mount enhances low-light shots. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on water surfaces.

Keep a journal to record your observations. Note the birds you see, the flowers in bloom, the weather patterns, and your emotional response to each segment. Many hikers find that journaling transforms a physical activity into a meditative practice. Consider using a waterproof notebook or a digital app like Day One for easy archiving.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Weekend Family Hike

Every Saturday morning, the Rivera family from South Minneapolis hikes a 3-mile segment of the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails with their two children, ages 6 and 9. They start at the Lake Harriet Bandshell at 8 a.m., walk the trail to the 36th Street Bridge, and return via the same path. They bring granola bars, water bottles, and a small binoculars set for birdwatching. The children keep a “trail journal,” drawing pictures of ducks, squirrels, and bridges they see. On Sundays, they research the animals they spotted. This routine has become a cherished family tradition, blending physical activity with nature education. “It’s our way of unplugging,” says mother Maria Rivera. “We don’t check our phones. We just walk and talk.”

Example 2: The Solo Morning Ritual

James Chen, a retired engineer, hikes the full Calhoun-Isles Chain Loop every weekday at 5:30 a.m. He began after recovering from heart surgery and found the trails’ consistent rhythm therapeutic. He carries a small notebook and writes one sentence about his mood each day. Over two years, he’s documented how the changing seasons affect his energy and mindset. “In winter, the silence is profound,” he writes. “In summer, the water sounds like a lullaby.” James now mentors new hikers through a local wellness group, sharing how the trail helped him rebuild his life.

Example 3: The Photography Project

Photographer Lena Torres embarked on a 12-month project capturing the same viewpoint on the Pillsbury Point Bridge at sunrise, every single day. Her series, “Light on the Lakes,” reveals subtle shifts in color, cloud patterns, and human activity. She documented everything from snow-covered bridges to summer festivals filling the park with music. Her work was later exhibited at the Minneapolis Institute of Art and inspired a citywide campaign to preserve urban green spaces. “The trail taught me patience,” Lena says. “You don’t control the light. You wait for it. And when it comes, you’re ready.”

Example 4: The Community Cleanup Initiative

In 2023, a group of local college students organized a monthly trail cleanup under the banner “Keep the Chain Clean.” Each first Saturday, they meet at the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion with gloves and bags. In six months, they collected over 1,200 pounds of litter—mostly plastic bottles, cigarette butts, and food wrappers. Their efforts led to the installation of 12 new trash and recycling bins and a partnership with the city to place educational signs at key trailheads. “We didn’t think we could make a difference,” says student leader Amir Patel. “But seeing the trail transform—cleaner, quieter, more beautiful—made us realize how much we all share this space.”

FAQs

Can I bring my dog on the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails?

Yes, dogs are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Leashes must not exceed six feet in length. Dog waste must be collected and disposed of in designated bins. Some sections near nesting birds have seasonal restrictions—check signage or the MPRB website for updates.

Are there restrooms along the trail?

Yes. Restrooms are available at the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion, Lake Harriet Bandshell, and the 36th Street Bridge entrance. Most are open from dawn to dusk, April through October. In winter, only the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion restroom remains accessible.

Is the trail suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?

Yes. The majority of the trail is paved and flat, making it accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and mobility scooters. Some sections near the Pillsbury Point Bridge have gentle slopes, but no stairs are encountered on the main loop. Accessible parking is available at all major trailheads.

How long does it take to hike the full Calhoun-Isles Chain?

Most hikers complete the full 10.5-mile loop in 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on pace and stops. A brisk walker can finish in under 3 hours. Allow extra time for photos, rest, or exploring side paths.

Can I bike the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails?

Yes. The trails are shared-use paths, and cycling is permitted. However, cyclists must yield to pedestrians and announce their presence when passing. Bike racks are available at major trailheads.

Is there cell service along the trail?

Cell service is generally reliable throughout the entire route, thanks to Minneapolis’s dense urban infrastructure. However, signal strength may dip slightly in wooded sections near Lake of the Isles. Download offline maps and emergency contacts beforehand.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board offers free guided nature walks every Saturday morning in summer. Local organizations like the Audubon Society also lead birding tours. Check their websites for schedules.

What’s the best time of year to hike?

May through September offers the most pleasant weather and full trail accessibility. Spring (April–May) brings wildflowers and migrating birds. Fall (September–October) offers vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures. Winter hiking is possible with proper gear and is especially serene.

Is there parking near the trail?

Yes. Paid parking is available at the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion lot, Lake Harriet Beach, and the 36th Street Bridge parking area. Street parking is also permitted on surrounding roads, but observe posted time limits. Public transit (Metro Transit buses 2, 10, and 18) serves all major trailheads.

Can I swim in the lakes while hiking?

No. Swimming is not permitted on the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails. While Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet have designated swimming beaches, these are separate from the trail system. Do not enter the water unless you are at an official beach area during open hours.

Conclusion

Hiking the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails is more than a physical journey—it’s a ritual of mindfulness, connection, and discovery. These trails offer a rare blend of accessibility and natural beauty, allowing city dwellers to experience the rhythm of seasons, the quietude of water, and the vibrancy of community—all within the boundaries of a single urban loop. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll not only navigate the trails with confidence but also engage with them in a way that honors their ecological and cultural significance.

Whether you’re hiking for fitness, solitude, photography, or simply to breathe deeply in the midst of a bustling city, the Calhoun-Isles Chain Trails welcome you. They ask for little: respect, awareness, and presence. In return, they offer clarity, calm, and a deeper appreciation for the green spaces that make Minneapolis not just livable, but truly alive.

Start small. Walk a single segment. Return again. Let the trail become part of your story. And when you do, you’ll understand why so many call these paths not just a route—but a refuge.