Hike to and around Cedar Lake's Hidden Beach

Most Twin Citizens are very familiar with their beautiful Chain of Lakes Loop (Calhoun, Lake of the Isles, Cedar, and Brownie). On any beautiful weekend or after work on a weekday, the lakes, especially Calhoun, are bustling with running groups, cyclists, and contemplative walkers.

For a more relaxing and secluded saunter, consider getting off the beaten track and exploring Cedar Lake's eastern shore. Hidden away along the Kenilworth Bicycle Trail is Hidden Beach, a beautiful beach with an infamous history. In the seventies, this beach was a hangout spot for people living an alternative lifestyle, such as hippies and nudists. Though those happy days are long gone, there are still many more happy days to come (they just happen to be a bit more clothed).

Now the beach has been developed into the well-maintained Cedar Lake East Beach city park, which offers swimming, fishing, and boating. There are dirts trails that start from the beach, both going north and south. Many loop with one another and offer secluded hiking opportunities. If you would prefer a longer hike, then the dirt trails connect with the North Cedar Lake Regional Trail. This 3-mile trail loops all around the lake, connecting back with the Kenilworth Trail.

The easiest way to get to the beach is either by driving and parking at Kenilworth Place and then walking on the Kenilworth Trail till you see the sign for the Cedar Lake East Beach. Biking is the best way to get around Minneapolis, and biking to Hidden Beach is easy as pie. Either take the Greenway to the Kenilworth Trail exit and follow it till you see the beach exit, or take the North Cedar Lake Regional Trail from Downtown Minneapolis till you see the Kenilworth Trail exit.