The regional park surrounding this lake has over two miles of restored shoreline.
Lake Phalen is the farthest downstream lake in the Phalen Chain of Lakes. The lake is used primarily for recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, paddling, picnicking and viewing. Lake Phalen is surrounded by parkland managed by the City of St. Paul. The lake has public boating access and a swimming beach. While the direct tributary area to the lake is close to 2,000 acres, the total land area that ultimately drains through Lake Phalen is closer to 15,000 acres including the Keller Lake and Wakefield Lake sub-watersheds.
Download the Phalen Chain of Lakes Water Trail Map to plan your next paddling adventure!
Lake facts
| Tributary area | 1,995 acres |
| Downstream waterbody | Mississippi River via the Beltline Interceptor storm sewer |
| DNR code | 62‑0013P (click for LakeFinder data) |
| Surface area | 200 acres |
| Average depth | 22 feet |
| Maximum depth | 95 feet |
| MPCA designations | Deep lake; impaired for mercury |
| Accountable municipalities | Maplewood, St. Paul, Ramsey County |
| Nutrient water quality classification | Stable |
Water quality
The following graphs show the growing season average measurements in Lake Phalen for chlorophyll-a, total phosphorus and secchi transparency. Lake Phalen is sampled for water quality parameters every two weeks from May through September. The lake has consistently good water quality and therefore is considered a stable lake.
Lake Water Level
Note: Readings during winter months while the lake is frozen may show rising numbers, which is an indicator of snow and ice on the lake rather than the water level
Past projects
Notable District water quality improvement projects in the watershed include:
Carp Management – Phalen Chain
More information
You can find detailed information on Lake Phalen and its tributary area in our watershed management plan.