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Hidden Cedar Tour

Hidden Cedar Logo
Rainbow over Cedar Lake, Minneapolis
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Cedar ~ Distinct & Different 

With twenty two lakes, it's no wonder Minneapolis is nicknamed "The City of Lakes."  On the West edge of the city, only 5 minutes from downtown is Cedar Lake. Due to its location, history, and accessibility, Cedar Lake has always felt "hidden," especially compared to its more well known neighbors on the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes.

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We are the only guided tour of Minneapolis' most hidden, natural, and mysterious lake. Our expert guide Tim Sheridan takes you into a world of nature, intrigue, history, and beauty that most locals don't even know.

 

From its famous, or infamous, "Hidden Beach," to the secluded footpaths in the Burnham woods, Cedar Lake is clearly unique. With close to three-miles of shoreline, Cedar combines, historic homes and architecture, three public swimming beaches, parks, and secluded woodlands totaling nearly 300 acres.

 

The Minneapolis Park Board recently approved a long-term vision for the future of Cedar Lake. When implemented in the coming years, this plan will change the complexion of the area and lake greatly. Take the opportunity to see this amazing area in it's raw, beautiful, and current natural state before it changes and becomes a trendy hot spot.

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Summer and Fall 2024 is your time to see and enjoy the "Hidden Cedar" while it's still hidden, with your insider guide Tim Sheridan! 

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Create The Tour You Want

Let us know what areas you might like to have us focus on during your 2.5 hour tour of Cedar Lake. Are you most interested in the history of the area and lake, the architecture, or nature? How to take better photos on your cell phone? Would you like to hear stories from Tim's life in baseball? Or just let Tour Guide Tim combine it all, in his own fun and interesting way? We are here for you and want to make your Hidden Cedar tour an experience you will never forget! 

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What to Know

The Hidden Cedar Tour is a walking tour of about 3 miles (about 4.8 km). The walk is mostly level, with some small hills. It has occasional rough terrain with tree roots, rocks, and uneven paths. As such, this tour is not advisable for young children, or those who are mobility challenged. You will be on your feet for much of the tour, but will have the occasional break to sit. Please wear good solid walking/hiking shoes, preferably closed toe. Bringing a bottle of water for hydration is advisable, especially on warmer days. Light snacks will be provided about half way through the tour. If you have any health issues or questions, please let us know ahead of time.

 

*All Hidden Cedar tours begin at South Beach at Cedar Lake: 3500 Cedar Lake Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55416

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Some of what you can see and hear on your Hidden Cedar Tour: 

  • Wildlife, some of which may be Horned Owls, Deer, Rabbits, Frogs, Woodpeckers, and Muskrats

  • A home once owned by the Queen of England

  • Three unique beaches, including the famous Hidden Beach, along with Point Beach, and South Beach

  • Secluded coves, points, and stretches of undeveloped shoreline

  • Micro climates around the lake

  • One of the best sunset spots in all of the Twin Cities

  • A home designed by celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright 

  • The famed Burnham Woods

  • Floating Fishing Pier 

  • The Cedar winter polar plunging site 

  • Historic sites of the former Cedar Lake Station, Cedar Lake Ice Company, Cycle Rest, and Oak Grove Hotel

  • Mural designed by famed local artist 

  • Areas used for hunting and fishing by the indigenous Dakota and Ojibwe

  • History of the Railroads that shaped the lake (literally)

  • Private benches and sitting areas overlooking the lake

  • Gorgeous views of the Minneapolis skyline

  • Stories, photos, and lore of the early settlement of Cedar Lake and surrounding area

  • Historic WPA projects

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