While it’s still pretty chilly outside, the worst of winter has passed, and now we’re seeing longer days and the first peek of crocuses and daffodils. We’re definitely ready to get back outside, and fortunately, living in Uptown and near the Chain of Lakes means there’s plenty to do. To give you a bit of inspiration, we wanted to share our top 5 outdoor activities for Uptown residents during early spring.
Ice Skate at Lake of the Isles Park
While it’s not as bitterly cold as it was, it’s still cold enough for some end-of-the-season ice skating at Lake of the Isles Skating Rink. Located at 2500 Lake Isles Parkway at the end of West 25th Street, the rink is open until 9:00 p.m. each night. While they don’t have rentals, they do have skates available to borrow for free, though they may be limited on sizes.
When you’ve finished skating, be sure to walk a few blocks to The Cafe Meow and warm up with a latte!
Take Up Archery at Bde Maka Ska
If you’ve been wanting to take up archery or want to brush up on your skills, there’s a free archery range at Bde Maka Ska. Called Calhoun Outdoor Public Archery Range, you’ll find it at the corner of Richfield Foad and William Berry Parkway, on the southern side of the lake. located at the southern part of the park, near Richfield Road
rental equipment, there are plenty of hay bales available for target practice. Make sure you aim a bit low or risk losing your arrows in Jo Pond just over the hill behind the range.
Train for Your Next Race Around the Chain of Lakes
Whether you’re an experienced runner who wants to make this the year of your first marathon or you just downloaded the Couch to 5K app on your phone, the Chain of Lakes provides the perfect setting to start training. Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Harriet are all circled in well-maintained walking and jogging paths measuring between 2.5 and 3 miles long, allowing you to take in the beautiful scenery along the way. Even better, all the paths around the lakes are connected, allowing you to run from Cedar Lake, around each lake, all the way to Lake Harriet.
If you want to bring your four-legged friend so you can both get some exercise, dogs are welcome on the trail. They just need to be kept on a leash.
Go Hiking in Burnham Woods
Even though most people think of hiking as a summer activity, early spring is actually a great time. Not only is it not hot or humid, but you don’t have to worry about mosquitoes, ticks, and other critters.
Burnham Woods is a great spot for beginning hikers to get some fresh air and spend time in nature. With clear trails and lovely views of Cedar Lake, you can spend a lovely afternoon getting away from it all (without going very far at all).
Schedule a Tour of Uptown Apartments for Rent Today
Uptown puts you close to all the outdoor recreation the Chain of Lakes has to offer, and early spring is just the beginning of the fun that awaits. If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Uptown, we have spacious one and two-bedroom units available in historic buildings with great locations. Schedule a tour or learn more about our apartments by calling 952-927-4144 or filling out the form below to get started.
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