Lake Minnewashta is located in Chanhassen, Minnesota and is near Lake Minnetonka and the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. It also encompasses the popular Lake Minnewashta Regional Park. The lake is 680 acres in size (less than 5% the size of its neighbor, Lake Minnetonka). Average depth of the lake is 15 feet and 70 feet at its’ deepest.
The name “Minnewashta” derives from two words in the Dakota language: “minne” meaning water and “washta” meaning good. To learn more about the origin of recognizable local names click here.
Minnewashta has a great water quality and holds a variety of fish. Popular fish that can be found in the lake include Black Bullhead, Bluegill, Brown Bullhead, Green Sunfish, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Pumpkinseed, Rock Bass, Walleye, Yellow Bullhead, and Yellow Perch. The lake also holds the infamous invasive weed species zebra mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil. Having trouble with invasive species? Click here.
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park
One of the most recognized attraction on Lake Minnewashta is the Lake Minnewashta Regional Park. This park includes one of the most famous dog parks in Hennepin county (known for its size and wild-like appearance). Swimming beaches, fishing accesses, a playground, and many trails around the lake, are also some of the other attractions found on the lake. To access the park, all vehicles must purchase a daily or annual parking permit.
This year, Minnewashta Regional Park hosted the 2019 Tonka Mud Run on July 13th. This event included a 3.5 mile mud run with fun obstacles, face painting, and a dance party. The Chanhassen Fire Department even made an appearance as they hosed off contestants after they finished the race.
Lake Minnewashta also neighbors the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, ranked as the Top Botanical Garden by USA Today Readers Choice. It is open year-round and includes beautiful gardens, tree collections, and trails for walking and cross-country skiing. Admission if $15 for those ages 16 and over.
