The Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis is one of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byways, and represents just over 13 miles of its total 50-mile length.& The Grand Rounds were designated over 120 years ago by Horace W. S. Cleveland in an attempt to conserve the natural and cultural heritage of the lakes. The Chain of Lakes comprise five of the twenty-two lakes around Minneapolis.
The lakes have their own individual character and surroundings, they are all linked by trails for walking, jogging and cycling, and some sections are used by cyclists and skaters commuting to downtown Minneapolis. Information centers, fishing docks and picnic areas with grills can be found along the lake shores.
Lake Calhoun has many restaurants, and outdoor sports including soccer, softball and volleyball fields. Kayaks and canoes can also be rented and there is over two miles of continuous canoing, plus three shore beaches. Lake Harriet is a great place to learn to sail, and there are also two beaches for swimmers and sun-worshippers. The Lake Harriet bandstand features music events during the summer, and the Rose Garden and Rock Garden are popular attractions. There are also a couple of beaches around Cedar Lake.
The Isles Lake is used for skating and hockey in the winter, and festive New Year's Eve celebrations. The Kenwood neighborhood with fine houses is located along its shore, and the two islands in the lake, Mike's and Raspberry Islands, are protected habitats for birds and other wildlife including great blue and black-crowned night herons.
