Ham Lake, MN
County: Anoka
History
Ham Lake is a city located in Anoka County, Minnesota. It was first settled by European-American pioneers in the mid-1800s, primarily farmers who were attracted to the fertile land in the area. The city gets its name from the nearby Ham Lake, which was named after an early settler named John Ham.
The community remained relatively small and rural until the mid-1900s when suburbanization began to occur in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The expansion of nearby cities like Minneapolis and Saint Paul led to increased development in Ham Lake as people sought more space and a quieter lifestyle outside the city. However, the city still maintains its rural character with large amounts of open land and many lakes scattered throughout the area.
Incorporated as a city in 1974, Ham Lake experienced steady growth in the following decades. The population has increased significantly, going from around 2,500 in 1970 to over 16,000 residents today. Despite this growth, the city has remained focused on preserving its natural beauty and maintaining its rural charm.
Ham Lake is known for its abundance of outdoor recreational activities. With its numerous lakes, residents and visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and other water sports. The city also has several parks and trails, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Ham Lake is proud of its strong community spirit and hosts events such as the annual "Ham Lake Snow Bowl" winter festival and the "Tater Daze" summer festival.
Over the years, Ham Lake has continued to evolve while remaining committed to preserving its heritage and natural surroundings. Today, it is a thriving suburban community that offers a balance between city amenities and rural living.
Attractions
There aren't many well-known attractions in Ham Lake, Minnesota, as it is a small suburban community. However, there are a few local attractions that may be of interest:
Majestic Oaks Golf Club
This golf club offers two championship courses, a driving range, and a clubhouse. It's a popular spot for golf enthusiasts in the area.
Ham Lake Park
This local park is a great spot for outdoor activities. It features walking trails, a playground, picnic areas, and a fishing pier.
Ham Lake Snowbowl
In the winter months, the Ham Lake Snowbowl offers a tubing hill and a warming house for some winter fun.
Birch Glen Public Golf Course
Located nearby in Oak Grove, this public golf course is a good alternative for golfers in the area.
Ham Lake Lions Park
This small park provides a pavilion for events, a playground, basketball courts, and open spaces for recreational activities.
While these attractions may not be major tourist destinations, they offer recreational opportunities for residents and visitors in Ham Lake, Minnesota.
Climate
The climate of Ham Lake, MN can be described as a humid continental climate. It experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. Here are some characteristics of the climate in Ham Lake:
Summers
The summer season in Ham Lake is warm and humid. Average high temperatures range from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to high 20s Celsius). July is typically the warmest month. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, bringing occasional heavy rainfall.
Winters
Winters in Ham Lake are cold and snowy. Average high temperatures in winter range from the mid-teens to the low 30s Fahrenheit (around -5 to 0 degrees Celsius). January is the coldest month with temperatures occasionally dropping below zero. Snowfall is common, with an average annual snowfall of around 50 inches (127 cm).
Spring
Spring in Ham Lake is mild and can be quite variable. Temperatures gradually start to rise, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the low 60s Fahrenheit (around 5 to 15 degrees Celsius). Spring is often rainy as well, with frequent showers and occasional thunderstorms.
Autumn
Autumn in Ham Lake is generally mild and pleasant. Temperatures start to cool down, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 10 to 20 degrees Celsius). The weather can be quite variable during autumn, with some days being warm and others cooler. Fall foliage is a highlight, with vibrant colors across the region.
Overall, Ham Lake, like much of Minnesota, experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year. It has cold and snowy winters, warm and humid summers, and mild and variable spring and autumn seasons.
Neighborhoods
Ham Lake, MN, is a city located in Anoka County, Minnesota. It is a growing community with a population of approximately 15,000 people. While Ham Lake does not have officially designated neighborhoods, there are several distinct areas within the city that offer different characteristics and amenities. Here are some notable areas in Ham Lake:
The Preserve
Located in the southwestern part of the city, The Preserve is an upscale residential area with large, wooded lots and luxury homes. The neighborhood offers a serene and private atmosphere, ideal for those seeking tranquility and privacy.
Bunker Hills
This area is named after the nearby Bunker Hills Regional Park, one of the largest parks in Anoka County. It is located in the southeastern part of Ham Lake and offers a mix of residential areas, including single-family homes and townhouses. Bunker Hills also features recreational amenities such as golf courses, picnic areas, trails, and a water park.
Andover/Coon Rapids Border
Ham Lake shares borders with the neighboring cities of Andover and Coon Rapids. Living near these boundaries provides residents easy access to the amenities and services offered by these cities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Residential Areas
Ham Lake is primarily a residential community, and throughout the city, you will find a variety of residential areas with a mix of housing options. These areas are characterized by quiet streets, well-maintained homes, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Rural Areas
Ham Lake still retains its rural roots, especially in the northern parts of the city. Here, you will find a more secluded and countryside feel, with larger lots, farms, and open spaces. This appeals to those who appreciate a more rural lifestyle and seek a slower-paced environment.
Overall, the neighborhoods of Ham Lake offer a mix of residential options, ranging from luxury homes in The Preserve to more rural areas suited for those seeking a peaceful countryside setting. The city's proximity to neighboring cities like Andover and Coon Rapids also provides additional amenities and services, making Ham Lake an attractive place to live.