Best lakes around Sunfish Lake are found in a region characterized by a mix of natural woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands, offering diverse outdoor experiences. This area, located south of St. Paul, Minnesota, features several lakes within regional parks and state parks. The landscape provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, and enjoying natural settings close to urban areas. Many lakes here are known for their tranquil environments and recreational activities.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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This is a pretty big park that has lots of features, mountain bike trails, paved trails, ballfields, playgrounds, goes for blocks.
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There are many miles of trails here, some paved and some doubletrack. This park is extremely geographically and historically significant, for it lies along the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. As you explore the forests, lakes, and beaches, know that you are traversing the ancient natural highways of America.
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Upper Lake, the smaller of two lakes in Crosby Farm Regional Park, is surrounded by scenic hiking trails, making it ideal for exploring on foot or mountain biking. Nestled in a serene setting, it provides a peaceful escape for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility amidst nature's beauty.
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St. Paul's Grand Round was envisioned in the late 19th century as a continuous loop around the city of "parked" areas. Landscape architect H.W. S. Cleveland saw the potential of linking Lake Phalen and Lake Como with the Mississippi River, though his plan didn't come to exact fruition, you can still follow the path around the city and visit some of its best features.
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Upper Lake is the smaller one of two lakes in the Crosby Farm Regional Park. It is encircled by nice hiking trails and offers a tranquil setting.
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Battle Creek Regional Park is over 1,800 acres of natural woodlands, grasslands, & wetlands. The miles and miles of trails are perfect for hikers, cyclists, and runners to escape the city and enjoy immersion in nature without needing to travel far from home.
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Holland Lake, within Lebanon Hills Regional Park Reserve, has a fishing pier and is known as a spot to catch northern pike, bluegill, and various trout species. Boating is not allowed on this lake, but it is open for shoreline fishing.
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Fun ride to Alloy Brewing Co and back
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The region around Sunfish Lake is characterized by a mix of natural woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands. You can find diverse environments, from the extensive natural areas of Battle Creek Regional Park to the tranquil settings of lakes like Upper Lake in Crosby Farm Regional Park. Some lakes, such as Pickerel Lake, are oxbow lakes, formed when a river shifts its course, adding a unique geological element to the landscape.
The lakes and surrounding parks offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and running on miles of trails. For instance, Battle Creek Regional Park provides extensive trails for immersion in nature, while Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park has both paved and doubletrack trails. Fishing is also popular, especially at lakes like Pickerel Lake.
Yes, there are many excellent hiking opportunities. Battle Creek Regional Park offers miles of trails through woodlands and wetlands. Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park features numerous trails, including paved and doubletrack options. For more detailed hiking routes, you can explore the Hiking around Sunfish Lake guide, which includes easy routes like the River to River Greenway from Simon's Ravine to Thompson Lake loop.
Absolutely. The area is well-suited for cycling. The St. Paul Grand Round is a continuous loop of 'parked' areas around the city, connecting various features including lakes and the Mississippi River. Pickerel Lake also has well-developed paths for cycling. For more cycling routes, check out the Cycling around Sunfish Lake guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Sunfish Lake guide.
Many lakes and parks in the region are considered family-friendly. For example, Battle Creek Regional Park and Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park are highlighted as suitable for families, offering trails and natural spaces for all ages to enjoy.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in several lakes. Pickerel Lake is known as a popular spot for fishing. Additionally, Sunfish Lake in Le Sueur County, Minnesota, which has a public boat launch, is noted for fishing a variety of species including Black Crappie, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, and Yellow Perch.
Yes, Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park is located in an extremely geographically and historically significant area, at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. Exploring this park allows you to traverse ancient natural highways of America.
Visitors appreciate the tranquil environments and recreational opportunities. The area offers a blend of natural woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands, providing diverse outdoor experiences close to urban areas. The komoot community has highlighted the appeal of these lakes with numerous photos and upvotes, praising their natural beauty and extensive trail systems.
While specific wild swimming spots are not detailed, Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park does feature beaches, offering opportunities for water-based recreation.
The region offers diverse experiences throughout the year. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking and cycling due to pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is perfect for water activities like swimming and fishing. In winter, if conditions allow, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing can be popular, especially around lakes like Sunfish Lake in Ontario (though the guide focuses on Minnesota, the principle of winter activities applies to frozen lakes).
While specific accessibility details for all lakes are not provided, many regional parks and state parks in the area, such as those featuring the St. Paul Grand Round, often include paved trails that can accommodate various mobility needs. It's advisable to check specific park websites for detailed accessibility information.
The diverse habitats of woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands around the lakes support various wildlife. While not explicitly detailed for every lake, areas like Upper Lake in Crosby Farm Regional Park are noted for their wildlife, suggesting opportunities for birdwatching and observing other local fauna in their natural settings.


Still not found your perfect lake around Sunfish Lake? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.