Discover the stunning Pickerel Lake in Lilydale Regional Park, where paddling offers serene water views and wildlife encounters. Perfect for all skill levels, this spot combines natural beauty with accessible recreation.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic swimming skills recommended
Wildlife
History
Pickerel Lake has been a vital part of the local Indigenous communities and was historically used for fishing and transportation.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve water quality and habitat diversity make Pickerel Lake a model for sustainable recreation and ecological stewardship.
Mississippi River Paddle Share
Discover the stunning Pickerel Lake in Lilydale Regional Park, where paddling offers serene water views and wildlife encounters. Perfect for all skill levels, this spot combines natural beauty with accessible recreation.
Mississippi River Paddle Share connects Minneapolis residents and visitors to paddling opportunities on the Mississippi River and nearby lakes. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the program provides shared paddle and kayak access and organizes community events. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Mississippi River Paddle Share offers guided opportunities and independent paddle access through its Paddle Share program, including trips like "Paddle Share: Pickerel" at Pickerel Lake in Lilydale Regional Park and the community Float Fest scheduled for August 9, 2025, at Graco Park.
The organization focuses on increasing equitable river access by placing paddle resources and programming where neighbors can reach them. Trips highlight local natural assets, such as lily pad beds, floodplain forests, bluffs, and wildlife sightings including bald eagles and river otters. Paddle Share: Pickerel emphasizes fishing and scenic paddling in mid-summer; Float Fest 2025 combines paddling with live music, food trucks, and public programming to build community around the river.
Operations prioritize safety, local stewardship, and accessible programming, collaborating with park sites like Lilydale Regional Park and Graco Park for events and launch access. The program's public scheduling and community events create straightforward opportunities for single outings, group paddles, and festival participation. Information and event dates are published for public planning; Float Fest is set for August 9, 2025.
Mississippi River Paddle Share serves as a practical resource for anyone seeking paddle or kayak access in Minneapolis, promoting recreational use, wildlife appreciation, and equitable access to the Mississippi River for residents and visitors alike, and river stewardship.
Location
Minneapolis, MN
On the Mississippi River
Events
Float Fest — Aug 9, 2025
Graco Park community festival
Wildlife
Eagles & otters
Lily pads and shoreline sightings
Trips Offered
2 trips
Paddle Share and community festival
Find launch sites, trip details, and Float Fest information to get on the water in Minneapolis.
Wear sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to stay comfortable during midday paddling.
Watch for wildlife
Keep an eye out for eagles and otters that frequent the shoreline.
Bring water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized during your paddle adventure.
Check weather conditions
Ensure good weather forecast before heading out to avoid sudden storms.
Life jacket
A properly fitted life jacket ensures safety during paddling.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from sun exposure while on the water.
summer
Waterproof camera or phone case
Capture scenic moments without worry of water damage.
summer|fall
Hat and sunglasses
Provide shade and reduce glare while paddling.
summer