Top 4 Lakes around Crown College
Best lakes around Crown College are a defining feature of the region. Crown College, located in St. Bonifacius, Minnesota, is situated directly next to Parley Lake, which is integrated into the campus experience. The surrounding area, part of "The Land of 10,000 Lakes," offers diverse natural landscapes and water bodies for exploration. This region provides opportunities for recreation and relaxation near various lakes.
Best lakes around Crown College
- The most popular lakes is Carver Park Reserve Trail, a trail…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
Carver Park Reserve Trail
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Dakota Rail Regional Trail
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View of Lake Waconia from the Dakota Trail
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Lake Auburn
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Sunny Lake
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Tips from the Community
Lake Waconia is beautiful and huge, lots of good views as you go around.
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Carver Park is the perfect spot for river recreation on the Clackamas River. It sits where Clear Creek meets the Clackamas, just off Springwater Road in Carver. This expansive park is home to the Lowry Nature Center, Grimm Farm Historic Site, and King Waterbird Sanctuary, with opportunities to spot wildlife like trumpeter swans, osprey, and white-tailed deer. Open from 5 AM to 10 PM daily, the park's highlights are winding trails, interconnected lakes, and marshes, as well as a campground, picnic areas with barbecue grills, and a dog park, making it great for visiting year-round. Check out Monarch Singletrack Trail, which has over 14 miles of trails for all skill levels of off pavement riding.
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This highlight is located on the north side of Lake Auburn, where there is a public boat landing, fishing pier, and bathroom facilities.
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Sunny Lake, nestled within Carver Park Reserve, offers a picturesque hiking experience. Conveniently positioned along the Baker Carver Regional Trail, you can enjoy a pleasant loop around the lake's tranquil shores. Adjacent to the trail, an observation deck provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for the occasional turtle sighting, adding a touch of wildlife charm to your hike.
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Sunny Lake, nestled within Carver Park Reserve, offers a picturesque biking experience. Conveniently positioned along the Baker Carver Regional Trail, you can enjoy a pleasant loop around the lake's tranquil shores. Adjacent to the trail, an observation deck provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for the occasional turtle sighting, adding a touch of wildlife charm to your cycling adventure.
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Lake Auburn, with a 4-mile shoreline, is a favorable location for fishing for minnow, sunfish, and white sucker fish. Swimming is prohibited, and domestic animals are not allowed to wade in the lake. This lake, like several others in the area, tends to freeze over in winter, but ice fishing is not allowed.
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The Dakota Rail Regional Trail is a 13.5-mile paved trail that offers views of the Lake Minnetonka area and follows what was once the route of the Dakota Rail Corridor.
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This is an ideal place to take a break and enjoy a view of Lake Waconia from a comfortable bench.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around the lakes near Crown College?
The region offers diverse natural landscapes. Carver Park Reserve Trail features winding trails, interconnected lakes, and marshes, providing opportunities to spot wildlife like trumpeter swans and white-tailed deer. Sunny Lake, also within Carver Park Reserve, has tranquil shores and an observation deck where you might see turtles. Crown College itself is situated next to Parley Lake, offering a serene setting for relaxation and canoeing.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes near Crown College?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly options. Carver Park Reserve Trail is ideal with picnic areas, barbecue grills, and a dog park. Lake Auburn has a public boat landing and fishing pier. Parley Lake on the Crown College campus provides a beach, fire pit, grill station, and canoes, perfect for family gatherings.
Are there easy hiking trails near the lakes around Crown College?
Absolutely. You can find several easy hiking options. The Sunny Lake loop within Carver Park Reserve offers a picturesque experience. Other easy trails include the Lake 2 Paved Loop and Gale Woods Farm Loop. For more details and routes, check out the Easy hikes around Crown College guide.
Can I go cycling around the lakes in this area?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Dakota Rail Regional Trail is a paved path offering views of the Lake Minnetonka area. You can also enjoy a pleasant loop around Sunny Lake along the Baker Carver Regional Trail. The View of Lake Waconia from the Dakota Trail also provides great cycling opportunities with scenic views.
What kind of water activities are available on the lakes?
Parley Lake, adjacent to Crown College, offers canoeing from its campus beach. Lake Auburn is favorable for fishing, with species like minnow, sunfish, and white sucker fish. Swimming is prohibited in Lake Auburn, and ice fishing is not allowed when it freezes over in winter.
Are there any scenic viewpoints around the lakes?
Yes, there are several spots for scenic views. The View of Lake Waconia from the Dakota Trail provides an ideal place to take a break and enjoy the expansive lake. Sunny Lake features an observation deck along its trail, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Lake Auburn also has a viewpoint on its north side.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Crown College?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Carver Park Reserve, which encompasses Carver Park Reserve Trail and Sunny Lake, is open from 5 AM to 10 PM daily, making it great for visiting in any season. While some lakes like Lake Auburn freeze over in winter, they still offer a peaceful, natural atmosphere.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking near the lakes?
Yes, there are mountain biking trails in the vicinity. Carver Park Reserve offers the Monarch Singletrack Trail, with over 14 miles of trails for various skill levels. You can find more routes and information in the MTB Trails around Crown College guide.
What facilities are available at the lakes?
Lake Auburn provides a public boat landing, fishing pier, and bathroom facilities on its north side. Carver Park Reserve Trail includes a campground, picnic areas with barbecue grills, and a dog park. Parley Lake on the Crown College campus has a beach, fire pit, grill station, and a dock with canoes.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes?
Yes, Carver Park Reserve Trail features a dog park, making it a great option for visitors with pets. However, it's important to note that domestic animals are not allowed to wade in Lake Auburn.
What makes Parley Lake special for visitors?
Parley Lake, located directly next to Crown College, offers a serene and quiet lake setting. It's valued for both recreation and relaxation, providing an ideal environment for activities like canoeing, studying, or simply unwinding. The lakeside area includes a campus beach with a fire pit, a grill station, and a dock, making it perfect for evening gatherings and enjoying the peaceful, natural atmosphere.
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Still not found your perfect lake around Crown College? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
