Nest Lake is a 969-acre lake located in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, approximately 2 miles north of Spicer. The lake serves as a scenic paddling destination along the Middle Fork of the Crow River water trail system, offering kayakers and canoeists opportunities to explore both riverine and lake environments.

**Access and Navigation** Nest Lake features two public water accesses: one on the east side off State Highway 23 and another on the west side off County Road 9, both with concrete ramps. The lake's primary inlet is where the Crow River enters along the north shore, while the outlet drains into Green Lake via the Old Mill Inn dam. A popular 6-mile paddling route begins near Goat Ridge Brewery in New London and follows the Crow River downstream to Nest Lake, providing an easy to intermediate paddle through varied scenery.

**Lake Character and Features** With a maximum depth of 40 feet, Nest Lake presents paddlers with a relatively protected environment, though wind and waves can create challenging conditions on open water. The lake contains two small islands that offer interesting exploration opportunities. The Glacial Lakes State Trail crosses over a narrow section of the lake via bridge, adding to the scenic character. The lake was historically named for the abundant nests of double-crested cormorants observed by early settlers.

**Hazards and Considerations** When paddling the Crow River approach to Nest Lake, intermediate skills are recommended due to potential sweepers (downed trees and overhanging branches), especially during high water conditions. The river flows through a culvert under Highway 40 and under the County Road 9 bridge, which can be hazardous when water levels are elevated. Flow volumes vary considerably, ranging from swift currents in high water to Class I rapids conditions. The lake borders the Ringo-Nest State Wildlife Management Park, providing opportunities to observe waterfowl, eagles, and other wildlife along undeveloped shorelines.