Byllesby Dam Trailhead
Visitor information
Daily, 5 a.m.–10 p.m.
The Cannon River Carry-in Access closes to the public when the river level reaches 10 feet. The parking lot remains open when the river access closes. Check river levels.
Transit options
Use TransitLink from MetroTransit for a direct ride to the Byllesby Dam Trailhead.
Located on the east side of Lake Byllesby Regional Park, the Byllesby Dam Trailhead provides parking for paddlers, cyclists and other park users downstream of the Lake Byllesby Dam. Connected to the parking lot is a 0.2-mile carry-in access to the Cannon River State Water Trail.
For geo-enabled maps, download Dakota County Parks maps on the Avenza app.
Fees
No entrance fee for private or public use.
Special use permits are required for outfitters. Go to Special Use Permit page.
Parking
Free parking and a loading and unloading area are available during open hours. There is no overnight parking.
Alternative parking is located at the DNR motorized launch and near the playground in the park.
Harry Avenue and Mill Towns State Trail construction
The trail connection to the Mill Towns State Trail and road to the Byllesby Dam Trailhead in Lake Byllesby Regional Park is under construction through mid-June 2026. Vehicle and trail access will remain open during the project. There may be short-term closures while equipment is in use. Cyclists will need to walk their wheels around the area. Please follow all signs and use caution when passing through the work area. For more information, visit the project webpage.
Amenities
- Carry-in access to the Cannon River downstream of the Lake Byllesby Dam (0.2-mile portage)
- Portage cart available for check-out from the Lake Byllesby Campground Office
- Portable toilet on site
- Drinking water (May-October)
- Access to Mill Towns State Trail
- Views of the Lake Byllesby Dam and Cannon River gorge