Twin Cities water trail
How to Paddle Minnehaha Creek
Minnehaha Creek runs from Gray’s Bay on Lake Minnetonka through west metro communities to Longfellow Lagoon in Minneapolis. The watershed district divides it into three practical stretches and bases its paddling guidance on the Hiawatha Avenue flow gauge.
Open MCWD’s paddling map and landing descriptionsAll Paddle Today guides
Before choosing a stretch
Use Minnehaha Creek’s own flow range
The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) recommends checking the Hiawatha Avenue gauge because the creek’s flow can shift quickly with rain and stormwater runoff.
Below 75 cfs
MCWD labels this range poor for paddling. Shallow sections may require scraping or portaging; its upper stretch is the section most likely to retain enough water in low conditions.
75 to 150 cfs
MCWD’s preferred paddling window at the Hiawatha Avenue gauge. The number is a creek-specific planning range, not a promise that every landing or feature is suitable.
Above 150 cfs
MCWD labels this range dangerous and does not recommend paddling. Recheck the gauge and weather close to launch, especially after rainfall.
See MCWD’s current water-level page and its Minnehaha Creek paddling guidance for the current reading and source details.
Choose a manageable reach
Three stretches from Gray’s Bay to Longfellow Lagoon
MCWD’s time estimates are rough and vary with conditions and paddling pace. Use its map and route description to choose designated put-ins and take-outs.
Upper · about 2–3 hours
Gray’s Bay to Target–Knollwood
This reach passes through mostly undeveloped wetlands and natural areas. MCWD describes it as the stretch most likely to have enough water during low conditions, while its overall gauge table still classifies flows below 75 cfs as poor.
Middle · about 2–3 hours
Target–Knollwood to Pamela Park
The creek becomes more urban as it passes Hopkins and St. Louis Park. MCWD highlights the restored Minnehaha Creek Preserve and its connection to the Minnehaha Creek Greenway.
Lower · about 2–3 hours
Pamela Park to Longfellow Lagoon
This Minneapolis stretch follows trails and parkways. MCWD identifies Longfellow Lagoon as the final landing before Minnehaha Falls; plan to take out there rather than paddle toward the falls.
Access and hazards
Use designated landings and scout ahead
Confirm each landing
MCWD asks paddlers to land only at the designated sites in its route description. Its mileage runs upstream from Longfellow Lagoon. Check its current paddling map before selecting a put-in or take-out, and respect private property along the creek.
Expect urban obstacles
MCWD tells paddlers to watch for overhanging trees, rocks, low bridges, and rapids, and to portage around challenging sections. Conditions and downed trees can change; the district says it cannot inspect and clear obstacles daily.
Carry a properly fitted life jacket
MCWD’s safety guidance says to wear a life jacket and notes the requirement for one per person on board. Check the forecast, tell someone your plan, and carry water, a phone, and basic first aid supplies.
This page is a planning overview, not a substitute for MCWD’s landing map, latest flow reading, or on-water hazard assessment. For broader Minnesota route ideas, see Best Minnesota Paddle Trips and the Minnesota route directory.
Primary sources
Check the latest guidance before you go
- MCWD: Paddle Minnehaha Creek — route sections, flow bands, time estimates, designated landings, and safety notes.
- MCWD: Water Levels — current watershed readings and paddling flow guidance.
- Minnesota DNR: Paddling Safety — statewide paddling safety guidance.