I love love LOVE this dog park- it's beautiful spacious and you meet wonderful people been coming here for 20 years- this is my third dog. However, you need to be an experienced dog owner and your dog needs to be well trained to keep your dog safe. Be aware- the Mississippi River can be very dangerous for dogs in winter if they are likely to go on the ice. Sadly, today someone's dog ran on the ice at the point- ice broke and dog went under and disappeared! So devastating for the person and the dog. Please if you come here- stay away from the river in the winter if there is a chance your dog will go on ice whether it is chasing after something or just running with another dog. Better yet- even if you think your dog won't run on ice- why risk it. Dogs need to be in perfect recall to come here- Minnehaha Park is too big to find a dog that has run off. Sadly again- a dog got out of the park and ran onto Hiawatha and killed Nov. 1st 2023. In the fall of 2023 (no ice) a 6 month old Vizsla was swimming or drifting down the middle of the river and would not come back to shore. Finally the owner swam out once- couldn't get the dog- then she risked her life and swam toward dog again and brought dog to shore. Person was crying, cold and shaking as well as the dog- it was her first time at Minnehaha Dog Park- she said it will be the last. Great park, but you need to keep a constant eye on where you dog is at all times and have a well trained dog to keep them safe. read more

My dogs love this park! It's seriously one of the best parks we've been too in the twin cities. My rat terrier hates being on a leash so being able to roam freely is a huge plus for him and me. This park is huge. The park feels endless. I'm definitely coming back in the summer to explore the whole entire park with my fur babies. We had a first good experience here this past weekend. All the dogs were friendly and obedient. It's clean for the most part. Everyone is friendly. There's a lot of shade and the park is right down by the river. read more

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Love! Love! Love! Get ready to wear out the pup, the kids, and yourself! It's a great hike that can be as little or as much as you want. I've clocked 3 miles depending on the routes we've taken. You can travel along the river, the wooded trails, climb hills that take you to some fun stuff like small waterfalls or stairs that lead to other trails and a peninsula where the pups can get muddy and chase ducks. I've not seen ducks harmed, so it's all good. People are pretty friendly, and for the most part, the pups are well behaved. As the weather gets nicer, first time owners are coming out so be prepared for varying levels of discipline (pup and owner). Will include more pictures next time we are out. You will have to pay for parking FYI, or park across the street and walk across the intersection of highway 55 & E 54th St. read more

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area - Dog Parks Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Excellent place to walk our girls. They loved the freedom and we loved the safety of the fences. Fantastic resource for dog owners.

This was a fun, beautiful dog park. It is very big with multiple walking trails through the woods and along the river. If the water isn't high, you can walk right along it on the sandy shore. Otherwise there are a couple beach spots to stop at and meet all the pups. It's very pretty all year round. Your dog will get wet and very muddy. You might even too, so come prepared with appropriate attire. There is only metered parking and it can fill up at the busy times. This is my favorite park to go to and have fun with the pups and being outside. read more

Dayumn! Were some scenes from Lord Of The Rings shot at this off-leash park? The only things missing from this majestic dog sanctuary were walking trees and journeying hobbits. Ooh, and Legolas, cause he's kind of cool. ***** I feel bad for my girlfriend last weekend. I was probably the grumpiest I've ever been this year, and the peak of my jerk-ness occurred sometime around Saturday afternoon. Throughout the day, she insisted that we visit Minnehaha's breathtaking dog park, so we could bask in the glory of this immaculate Minnesota fall. After several debates/ fights, I finally caved and decided to go with her. I'm an asshole. This. Place. Is. Heaven. All 6.58 acres of it. Finding a parking spot near the entrance is nearly impossible, so consider coming on a weekday or early on the weekend to help ease the search-pain. After you do, though, it's mostly smooth sailing. *Note: Parking is $1.50 for two hours! You can find the entrance on 54th avenue/ Minnehaha Avenue. Once you enter, let your four-legged friend off his or her leash and follow the trail down to pure awesomeness. Also, be careful of the wooden steps that will come up during the first five minutes of your walk, and bring some comfortable walking shoes! Luckily, during my first visit, most of the trees had already turned red, orange, or yellow. With a slight breeze, the leaves slowly fell to the ground all around us, like if we were in some Disney movie. (It's sort of like this, but not as corny: http://bit.ly/ZLWb5i) I've lived in Minnesota for most of my life, and this amazing walk definitely ranks in my "Top 5 Minnesota Nature Thingamabugs." If you stay on the path, you'll travel through the forest. If your pup enjoys the water, try walking along the river's shoreline. We took the main path, and it ended at the river's bend. At the bend, you can witness tons of doggies go crazy for one another. #lotsofbuttsniffing Other things to love: -Never saw a piece of trash on the ground. Super clean park! -There are trash cans scattered throughout and free doggy/ plastic bags. -Did I mention that the river is included? -Free.99. I can't wait to come back! My dog never loved a place so much. read more

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Best dog park ever! Seriously. We've been coming here in the winter and summer for the last two years and it is wonderful! You can walk along the river or in the woods! Tips: wear shoes you don't mind wrecking. I usually wear old tennis shoes because my dog gets wet and sandy and shakes all over me and we usually leave pretty dirty. In the winter they take away the garbage cans so be prepared to have a poo bag under your windshield wiper (I think the parking lot still has trash cans year round, too). For some reason the parking lot pay machine won't take my credit card, so either bring quarters or park at the meters (or across Hiawatha for free!). This dog park doesn't get as congested as smaller dog parks so (generally) it seems like dogs are enjoying themselves more and can get some space if they need it. This dog park is our absolute favorite way to spend the day. read more

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area - Minnehaha falls dog park - Dog Parks Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Anywhere I can let our 4 legged ball of thunder off leash works for me. I don't want to pay for parking, but I do. Is it me or are the woods by the river almost in technicolor? I want to climb every tree in that forest and claim myself as the queen. ....or something.....Good times! read more

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Have to pay for parking, but so worth it! Little walk to the river and so much room for the pups to swim and play! I will be going here as much as I can! read more

Just moved to MN from Vegas and been looking for an off leash park for my little girls to run free - this place was perfect! read more

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area - Contemplating goin in the water... - Dog Parks Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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If my dog cirque could talk she would say, "I'm a big fan" ! Walk for days, swimming in the river, pretty much a dog party all the time read more

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area - Dog Parks Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

This park can, at times, be problematic simply because people who are not familiar with dog park etiquette insist on bringing in children, more so than some of the more "out of the way" parks that require a longer car ride. It seems, mostly, true "Dog People" are willing to head out to some of the more rural parks where the experience is worth the gas money. Being in the cities this park has more newbies and, generally, clueless first timers. The sign on the gate clearly discourages (the word discouraged IS used) children in the DOG Park. Children run....herding dogs chase them. They are fearful......dogs get weird. The dogs they are with become needlessly protective around their small bodies when other dogs and people are just passing and ....chaos. People who are disrespectful of the signage and bring in kiddos seem to be the quickest to emotionally amp up concerning their dog's aggression towards other dogs because "My kids are here!" To these people I say "Your kids can go to 99% of the parks designed for them. This is a dog park. Leave the tots at home. It isn't other people's responsibility to put your kid's well being in front of their dog's when you are ignoring the word "Discouraged" on the gates.Your children are compromising your ability to give your dog 100% of your attention." Some dogs are great at the park with adults and other dogs but not so good with kids and this park 's attraction for rude people with children can be a big wet blanket on an, otherwise, beautiful daily routine. read more

Beautiful place quick little walk to be by the river. The volunteers keep it up well. Definitely worth checking it out. Bring poop bags and clean up after your critter!!! It's not the volunteers jobs to do it. Thanks!! read more

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area - Blu is a puppy checking out the (chilly) water and sand for the first time. - Dog Parks Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

If you have a dog, you've found Dog Heaven. If you're a curious, able person, you'll also wag your tail. It's a beautiful area to get into Nature and the Mighty Mississippi is right there with you! Such a great spot. Make sure to bring good shoes if you're gaming for some off-road. When wet, it can be muddy and slick. Lot's of undulation, loads of trails and tons of animal life rooting around. read more

I can't believe how big this park is!!! Jack pot of all dog parks. We got our boy licensed to roam free and we met so many other well behaved roaming dogs and their humans. It really takes a good community of people to make a good environment for everyone. One thing I will say is the number of times I saw poo bags hanging on the fences not 100 ft from a trash can. That is damn ridiculous. Those people are not welcome back in my mind. In soon if that, we will be back for sure!!! read more

A dog's paradise awaits at Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area. Several acres of lovely landscape with mature trees, trails, and water--all pluses for dogs and their human companions who enjoy nature and leisurely hiking. The dogs were nice and friendly and the dog handlers were respectful. My dog was happily exhausted after playing with his newfound friends. Tips: Obtain an annual dog permit prior to visiting. It may be used at several dog parks in the Twin Cities as well. Website for details: https://www.minneapolisparks.org/parks__destinations/dog_parks/ Trail conditions may be muddy or icy depending on the time of year so plan accordingly. FYI: There is a parking fee. Bottom line: Spacious retreat for your doggie companion that is far from the ordinary, congested, fenced in 'large box' park. You and your dog will leave content. read more

This is hands-down, the best dog park I have ever been to. I get here, pay $1.50 for 2 hours of parking in the lot across the street, and basically get dragged by my dogs to the gate of the park. Once beyond the gate, we're off to a 1/2 mile hike through the woods. The dogs get to swim in the Mississippi, chase squirrels (that haven't yet learned that this off leash area is NOT the place to hang out), climb on fallen tree trunks, dig in the mud. Depending on the weather the beach can be big and sandy with slow moving water, or pretty much non-existant (water all the way up to the trees, sometimes beyond). This place is the most magical (and messy) after heavy rains, when the flooding turns the lower paths into large streams and the walk is more wading than hiking. This is where my now 1 year old puppy Nori learned how to play fetch, where she learned to swim, and to socialize with other dogs. It's where I've learned to trust them (when they're swimming in fast currents, running off into the woods, greeting other dogs). It's where Tofu (my other rescue dog) showed me what kind of dog he was: scared and submissive at home, yet barking and warning off another dog that was bullying Nori at this park. I love this place. After you've explored the beachfront, don't forget that there are also trails through the woods inland (with small bluffs and hills for hiking along). bring: towels (to wipe your dogs down before they get in the car) water (for you, there's no fountains near the park) bug spray ball (if your dogs need one, you won't find them laying around here like you would at lake of the isles park) it would be even better if: there were a beach-style faucet to rinse yourself and your dogs off before getting in the car read more

It is a dog's heaven, if my dog was to write this review it would get about 512 stars!!! From the paranoid doggy mom perspective though, it needs a very important caveat. If you dog does not have *perfect* recall (not ok, not sometimes, perfect!), you need to use a leash or treats galore until you both are comfortable. There are many areas where a dog could get lost, hurt, or in a dangerous part of the river here. My dog has good recall, not perfect, so we will be extra super careful until we both are comfortable. That said, it is a beautiful park with trails, trees, water access (dirty water, but water none the less), and a bunch of wagging tails!! read more

This place is seriously great. There's a ton of space for dogs to run and it's also just a good place to walk around. I take my dog down here quite a bit, but I've also gone there just to hike around off the main paths. The only thing I don't like about this park is a lot of people bring their little kids down there. I have a boxer who has a ton of energy so it's really cool that he can run around and burn some of that off, but when your kid who can barely walk is wobbling around carrying a stick my dog thinks it's play time. My dog is super friendly and wouldn't hurt any people or dogs, but he will knock a kid over, so if parents are of the sort that they get in a panic every time their kid falls down, maybe take them and the dogs on a leash down to the Falls. Oh, and I forgot you had to pay for parking there. If you turn west on Hiawatha and 54th instead of east into the park there's always free parking. read more

I have pugs that are super active and love to swim. I know, I know, this sounds just silly and most people who meet them think the same thing. Here you have these 2 wrinkle-covered dogs who look like their faces are melting who run around at top speed (they hunch up their little backs and look like pigs) and people always laugh at them. I've learned to accept the laughter and just go with it and I think Carl and Ruby have, too. Anyway, this park is PERFECT if you need to tire your dogs out. You do need an off leash permit, but when Carl was little and didn't have one I just walked him on his leash through the park. I have no idea how far it is to the end but it's enough to make me need a nap when I get home. A lot of the walking is done in sand since it's runs along the river, so flip flops aren't the greatest idea (although I see a lot of people wearing them there.) I always walk the whole way because it ends at the river and the dogs LOVE to swim in it while I sit down for awhile. Most of the walk is in the shade because of all of the trees and there are multiple points where you can let your dogs into the river to swim. You do have to pay for parking now (I could have sworn it was free last summer) so bring some quarters, but these aren't the 10 minutes for 25 cents kind of meters. I've never met a mean/scared/nervous dog here. I love off leash dog parks because the dogs aren't confined to the length of a leash and, because of that, they are stress free and happy. If you have a dog that you aren't 100% certain will come when called or stay near you, I suggest not coming here. You have the river on one side and the woods on another (not to mention Hiawatha Avenue) so it probably wouldn't be the best idea. I really can't think of a place my dogs love more. Honest. read more

There's a reason this place is name "Recreation Area". I came here expecting your average joe dog park... the ones with fences and benches and dogs run around in a fenced area. To get to the lake, you walk through about .5 mile of woods. Make sure your dog listens and can come back on command or they will get lost in the woods. I'm glad crazy Mochi at least learned that much. She absolutely LOOOOVED this place, it was heaven for her as she could run and sniff to her hearts content. The day we went, there was a ton of labs and Mochi loves it. She thinks she's a big dog on the inside and loves to rough-house with bigger dogs. I've been trying to get her to go into the water and she leaped in with the labs. We lost a ball in the process but it was an acceptable casualty to see her leap into the water. Bring quarters for the parking. Make sure to bring a towel because you would think you have a pig not a dog after all this is over. read more

This place is a dog and dog lovers' fantasy come true. My fiance and I make a date of it, first having beer and seafood sandwiches at Sea Salt, and then burning it all off at the park. It's like a rediscovery of my childhood and a vacation all at once. Climbing trees, playing hide and seek, hiking up mini bluffs, feeling the sand between your toes, wading in the water... My pug goes into total spaz mode (tail unraveling into a crooked limb, bright buggy eyes, wrinkly, smily tongue-face, huff-huff-huff) chasing the wake from passing boats. She tentatively retrieves a branch from the water, and subsequently has to spin in circles and do figure eight loops at the excitement of it all. ADVICE: You and your pet will both need a clean up when you get home, as you will have that summer mix of sunscreen, sand, and sweat. DO NOT SHOWER WITH YOUR PUG!!! Exhausted and impatient to take a nap, I thought I would simply "take a quick rinse" with my pug. Imagine-Spaz pug paws and naked lady torso flesh. No good. I am just over sharing so that you may be spared this lesson. DO Enjoy this dog park. read more

Things to consider: - Ample opportunity for all to get wet and muddy/sand covered. It's great! Keep a towel in the vehicle for a quick cleaning if sand in your car bothers you. - Small adorable grey pit bull mix, thick leash owned by younger male with dreadlocks. Dog became aggressive twice while I was there. Owner became verbally aggressive and really loud when I offered his dog my leg as an alternative to my dogs bleeding body. My 9 month hound (only interest was in fleeing) received two puncture wounds. Bled a little for an hour or so, but is fine. Pit bull mix owner insisted they were playing. There's play, aggressive play, and attack mode. This dog went from simply standing to attack very quickly. Such an adorable Pitt bull mix, right up until it started sinking teeth into flesh. Precious. If the very rare occasion of aggressive young males and pit bull mixes don't bother you, this is dog paradise. One might consider attending this park with friends. A small group might be fun (or more safe) Can't imagine a better dog park on the planet. For future reference, when your dog is being attacked, you have the lawful right to protect your property from damage (I know, I was sad to learn dogs are merely property, under the law). The Park Police are very helpful. -The park could use a couple more trash cans for the dogs. read more

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area - I know, not a gushing wound, but still not a result of "play". - Dog Parks Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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My dogs love this park more than anything. Lots of new dogs to meet and play with. A beachy walk and several forest trails. It's our happy place! A must see for anyone with a social pup read more

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area - On our way to the park! - Dog Parks Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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There are dog parks that are good for letting your dog socialize & then there are dog parks that are good for hiking and exploring & letting your dog run wild... This dog park has both! We were there on a busy day & there were tons of other happy dogs playing at the park. I would imagine on a regular weekday, it's not as busy - but this dog park will still make any dog happy...here is why: *Beautiful and wonderfully manicured woodsy trails. *Sandy beaches. *Access to the Mississippi River. My dogs loved this dog park & for me, it is at the top of the list. It's such a big beautiful space right in the middle of the city. Parking seems pretty easy (we parked pretty far from the dog park area on a residential street) and there are pay lots nearby. You do need an off-leash dog park permit ($35 for the first dog & $25 for the second) that you can buy through the City of Minneapolis website or at Sea Salt. You'll need to make sure that your dog also has a current license for the city where they reside... That off leash permit is good at at of the Minneapolis dog parks...and is completely worth the price! :) read more

This place is a dog lover's dream come true. But make sure you wear your walking shoes and come prepared to get wet and dirty. The beginning of the park is a long path (and it's a bit of a hike too - some very steep hills). Suddenly the ground flattens out and you swear you hear water. You walk through the trees and low and behold - a dog friendly, off leash beach! In Minnesota! My husband and I have spent hours at the beach with our dog. Our pug loves meeting all the people and dogs and you can walk along the shore for quite a ways. When we finally get him tired out and back to the car, all 3 of us are wet and covered with sand. So if you like your car, you might want to bring a towel. A side note: The park isn't your standard fenced in dog park. You and your dog can easily get separated here. I can't think of a time I went to the park and didn't see some poor soul desperately trying to find their dog. Once I even found a lost dog (wanted to keep him too - a Boston terrier puppy - so cute). So be sure your dog has tags and you keep an eye on him/her before you go! read more

Aside from our family cabin, this spot is my summer mecca. There is just something so soothing and refreshing about being there...maybe it's the mighty Mississippi, or maybe it's seeing the huge smile on my dogs' faces. Either way, I'm at peace when I'm there. After the 10 minute trail walk to the beach, we find a sunny spot where I'll kick of my shoes and just watch as my fur kids leap in and out of the water. Then we'll walk all the way down to the point, stopping to greet other dogs along the way, before turning around and making the journey back to the car. If I get a friend to come with, there's nothing better than topping off the dog park with a visit up the road to Sea Salt for some fish tacos or a po boy. Perfect summer night. read more

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area - Dog Parks Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

I truly believe my dog thinks this place is utopia. He, a very energetic golden retriever, can sniff out this park a mile away. His excitement as we pass through the park's entrance gates could pull your arm off. From the moment the leash comes off, he has one goal and one goal only - to reach the river. In typical golden retriever fashion, he's an avid swimmer. Thankfully, this dog park offers ample access to the picturesque Mississippi River. Full of hidden trails through the enclosed woods, sandy beaches and clean swimming water, I almost wish I was a dog to enjoy this park as much as my pup. As with most local dog parks, The Minnehaha Off-Leash Park is tranquil and sparsely populated on weekdays and noisy and overcrowded on the weekends. If you have a dog who likes to go in the water, I suggest wearing clothes and a comfortable shoes you don't mind getting dirty. And, remember to bring your waste pick-up bags - some kind park goers re-stock the bag bins, but don't rely on them - and there are several garbage cans throughout the park. Note: this park requires a Minneapolis Off-Leash Dog Park license to use (about $50 annual fee which covers the park maintenance fees). On several occasions I have been approached by park rangers and asked to show my tags; those without proper tags can be fined. read more

What a wonderful spot in the big city to bring your dog(s). Parking is easy and close by if the lot is full, and the wooded area is perfect. I've been here once with a friend and her dog, and just took my little guy for his first day. There weren't that many dogs, but that was okay, because Mick really likes to just greet dogs and keep running. His face told it all as he ran ahead of me on the trails at full speed, stopping once in a while to either catch his breath or check in with me. He looked so happy running freely. While at first I had some anxiety because I've never brought him here and know that it is not really fenced in, Mick stayed close by and listened pretty well considering his brain was probably on overload. All the people we came across were really friendly and understood that he isn't a huge people person. They asked questions about him because lets face it, he's weird looking. But Mick was so incredibly happy, which made me happy, to see him run free and take in the beautiful park. It was the best decision of the week to spend an hour at the park. It took about 30-35 minutes to get to the end of the park where the water from the Mississippi engulfs the park, and then we headed back. Mick was pooped by the time we got to the car, practically falling asleep before we pulled out. I'm thankful this area exists.. and if you have a dog that loves other dogs, loves to run, loves to explore, loves to fetch... this park has it all. read more

The best dog park I have ever been to. It makes me want to be a puppy. Getting lost in the minnehaha woodalnds. Oh, and the beach. Amazing. read more

Best dog park in the city. Not a dog park where you sit at a crappy old table and are forced to listen to some other person talk about how great their dog is. Plenty of space to get out and hike around. Bring Quarters for Parking. Very fun after fresh snow. read more

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area - Always nice to get out during the winter. - Dog Parks Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

I love living near Minnehaha Off-Leash Park, but my blue heeler loves it more. He nearly quivers out of his skin with excitement on the drive over, then crosses the street to the gate in an undulating and ridiculous series of jumps. Although his interest lies more in the park's abundant sticks than other dogs, Minnehaha's a great place for canine and human socialization. If you are in a solitary mood, the park's big enough to fully absorb your stresses too. It's beautiful in all seasons, but you need may need a pair of Yaktrax to make it safely down the hill from the gate in the winter. The long beach keeps dogs active without overheating during the dog days of summer. This water access, along with many other things, makes Minnehaha queen of the metro dog parks. Minor downsides include no trash receptacles within the dog park in the winter (but is it really that hard to carry poop bags back out to the gate?) and the high frequency of car break-ins in the lot. Your dog should have decent recall because separated dogs tend to wind up back at the gate which is too easy to slip out of and too close to Hiawatha traffic. Finding parking on summer weekends can be a challenge too. I highly recommend getting a Minneapolis Parks parking permit so you don't need to remember your quarters. We have a great thing at Minnehaha, and if you bring your pooch/es, please be responsible and get your Minneapolis off-leash license. It's money very well spent. read more

Really glad this places exists! Just wish I could bring my menace here :) But please, place your poop bags in the proper receptacles, don't tie them to the chain-linked fence along Minnehaha Trail! It looks trashy and stinks up the trail for bikers, runners, and walkers. And careful letting your dog off-leash before you're actually inside- I've nearly biked over a few stray pups who dart out from the stairs. I do understand their excitement though. read more