How do I access Upper Hay Lake?

Upper Hay Lake is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Upper Hay Lake?

Upper Hay Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Upper Hay Lake?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Upper Hay Lake?

The best time to paddle at Upper Hay Lake is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Upper Hay Lake?

Water conditions at Upper Hay Lake include calm, sheltered.

Is Upper Hay Lake good for beginners?

Yes, Upper Hay Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Photo by Joe Pohle on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Upper Hay Lake

Jenkins, MN · Boat Ramp · Public

Upper Hay Lake is a public boat ramp on Upper Hay Lake near Jenkins, Minnesota. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on Upper Hay Lake in Minnesota. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Jenkins.

Paddlers visiting Upper Hay Lake in Minnesota can launch from Upper Hay Lake, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Jenkins, Upper Hay Lake is a convenient option for Jenkins-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Upper Hay Lake ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Upper Hay Lake?: Upper Hay Lake is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Upper Hay Lake?: Upper Hay Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Upper Hay Lake?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Upper Hay Lake?: The best time to paddle at Upper Hay Lake is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Upper Hay Lake?: Water conditions at Upper Hay Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is Upper Hay Lake good for beginners?: Yes, Upper Hay Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 46.6426, -94.3108