Susan E. Lurton Park

For dog owners across Minnesota, especially those seeking a secure and thoughtfully designed off-leash environment in the western suburbs of the Twin Cities, Susan E. Lurton Park in Long Lake is quickly becoming a go-to destination. This exceptional dog park offers a refreshing blend of ample space, varied terrain, and amenities that cater to the diverse needs of both canine companions and their human counterparts. It's truly a testament to community planning, providing a wonderful resource for local Minnesotans and their beloved pets.

Susan E. Lurton Park stands out not just for its generous size, but for its intelligent layout. Unlike some open fields, this park is designed with distinct zones that enhance the experience for all users. Whether your dog is a high-energy runner, a social butterfly, or a more reserved senior, there’s a designated space that feels safe and accommodating. This level of consideration for various dog temperaments truly sets it apart in the Minnesota dog park landscape.

Local visitors have expressed immense satisfaction with their experiences. One recent transplant to Wayzata enthusiastically stated, "I moved to Wayzata last year and wish I discovered this park sooner. It has everything a dog owner would want. A fully enclosed fenced park. The first entry is fenced and to the left is the main unleashed park with ample space and a trail for your pets to explore. To the right of the fence there is a small dog park with 25lb less and for elderly dogs." This review perfectly encapsulates the park's key offerings and the positive impact it has on local dog owners. The careful separation of play areas is a highly appreciated feature, contributing to a more relaxed and enjoyable visit for everyone.

Another visitor highlighted the friendly atmosphere and practical details: "The owners here were also friendly, helpful and very thoughtful as well. They were always mindful of keeping an eye on their dogs. One woman gave us tips and even had informed us that her pup was not yet neutered because it was not old enough to get surgery yet just in case any of our dogs were also not spayed. There are spaces to sit and the smaller dog area has a nice shaded space to relax as well. This park was designed very thoughtfully and exceeded our expectations as well as the dogs and owners." This feedback underscores the supportive community and the thoughtful amenities, making Susan E. Lurton Park a highly recommended choice for Minnesota dog lovers.

Location and Accessibility

Susan E. Lurton Park is conveniently located at 3580 Wayzata Blvd, Long Lake, MN 55356, USA. Situated just off Wayzata Boulevard (Highway 12), its location provides excellent accessibility for residents of Long Lake, Wayzata, Orono, and other surrounding communities in the western Hennepin County area. The park spans 39 acres, offering a significant natural space for off-leash recreation.

The park is generally open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, providing ample hours for visitors to enjoy the facilities, accommodating early morning risers and those who prefer evening strolls. It's important to note that a parking pass is required to visit Susan E. Lurton Park. As mentioned by a local reviewer, the easiest way to purchase a pass is often directly from City Hall in Long Lake, which is less than 5 minutes away from the park. While online purchase options may exist, it's advised to factor in processing and mail delivery time if choosing that route. The need for a pass helps ensure the park's maintenance and quality, providing a well-managed environment.

The parking lot is noted by some as being "really small," so visiting during unpopular times might be a good strategy to avoid any parking difficulties. Despite this, the overall convenience of the park's location and its amenities often outweigh this minor consideration for many local users. All dogs should be leashed when entering and exiting the fenced areas to ensure safety for all visitors.

Services Offered

Susan E. Lurton Park offers a comprehensive suite of features and amenities designed to create an optimal off-leash experience for dogs and their owners. While it operates as a public park, these offerings serve a crucial role in providing a top-tier recreational space.

• Fully Enclosed Fenced Park: A key feature, the park is fully enclosed, providing a secure environment where dogs can roam off-leash without concerns about them wandering off.
• Separate Large Dog Area: The main off-leash area is expansive, offering "ample space and a trail for your pets to explore," suitable for larger and more energetic dogs.
• Dedicated Small Dog Area: A thoughtfully designed separate area is available for dogs "25lb less and for elderly dogs." This space is noted as being "a bit smaller but perfect," ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for less boisterous or more vulnerable pups. This area also reportedly offers a "nice shaded space to relax."
• Dog-Friendly Trails: The park includes trails for walking, allowing both humans and dogs to get exercise and explore the natural surroundings. These trails can get "icy in the winter and muddy in the spring," so appropriate footwear is advised.
• Water Fountain for Pups: A water fountain is available, ensuring dogs can stay hydrated during their playtime.
• Seating Areas: There are "spaces to sit" throughout the park, offering resting spots for owners while their dogs play. The small dog area specifically has a nice shaded space.
• Waste Disposal: While not explicitly mentioned as providing bags, it's implied that visitors should "bring some poop bags," and trash receptacles are likely available to encourage responsible waste disposal.
• Community Atmosphere: The park naturally facilitates positive interactions, with "friendly, helpful and very thoughtful" owners who are mindful of their dogs and willing to share tips.

Features / Highlights

Susan E. Lurton Park boasts several distinguishing features that make it a highly desirable destination for Minnesota dog owners:

• Thoughtful Design with Separate Areas: The distinct, fully fenced sections for large and small/elderly dogs are a significant highlight, catering to different needs and ensuring a safer, more comfortable experience for all.
• Expansive Space (39 Acres): The overall size of the park, encompassing open spaces and trails along Lake Classen, provides ample room for dogs to run, explore, and get extensive exercise.
• Varied Terrain and Trails: The presence of trails and "hillsides to run up and down" adds an engaging dimension to playtime, providing a more stimulating environment than a flat, open field.
• Shaded Areas (especially in small dog park): The provision of shaded spaces for relaxation, particularly noted in the smaller dog area, is a valuable amenity, especially during warmer weather.
• Friendly and Responsible Community: Reviews consistently praise the "well behaved" dogs and the "friendly, helpful and very thoughtful" owners, contributing to a positive and welcoming atmosphere. This community aspect is a major draw.
• Water Access: The availability of a water fountain for dogs is a crucial convenience, ensuring hydration during active play.
• Year-Round Accessibility (with caveats): While it can get "icy in the winter and muddy in the spring," the park remains open, allowing for year-round enjoyment for prepared visitors.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a public park operated by the City of Long Lake (or Orono, given the historical context of the land donation), Susan E. Lurton Park does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers." However, access to the park does require a parking pass, which can be viewed as a form of "offer" in terms of value for recurring visitors.

One local review explicitly mentioned a "50% off" discount when purchasing the pass online, indicating that periodic promotions on parking passes may be available. It is always advisable to check the official City of Long Lake or City of Orono website (as the park falls within Orono city limits, despite the Long Lake address often cited for navigation) for current pricing and any active discounts on dog park passes. Purchasing a pass contributes directly to the maintenance and upkeep of this valuable community resource.

Beyond potential pass discounts, the primary "offer" is the high-quality, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed off-leash environment provided to the public. Any community events or educational programs related to responsible pet ownership would likely be announced through the city's official channels.

Contact Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Susan E. Lurton Park, including parking pass details, hours, and rules, it is best to contact the City of Orono Parks and Recreation Department, as the park is located within Orono city limits despite the Long Lake mailing address often used.

Address: 3580 Wayzata Blvd, Long Lake, MN 55356, USA

Phone: (952) 249-4600 (City of Orono main line, which can direct you to Parks and Recreation)

It is highly recommended to visit the official City of Orono website (oronomn.gov) for detailed information on park policies, potential pass purchase options, and any seasonal advisories or temporary closures before planning your visit.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Minnesota dog owners, particularly those residing in the western suburbs of the Twin Cities like Long Lake, Wayzata, and Orono, Susan E. Lurton Park is an exceptionally suitable and highly valued destination. Its fully enclosed design provides peace of mind, allowing dogs to run freely and safely without worry. The intelligent division into separate areas for large and small/elderly dogs is a standout feature, ensuring a comfortable and appropriate environment for every canine, from energetic puppies to more reserved seniors. This thoughtful planning reflects a deep understanding of diverse pet needs.

The park's expansive 39 acres, complete with varied terrain and walking trails along Lake Classen, offers ample opportunities for both physical exercise and mental stimulation for dogs, and enjoyable strolls for their human companions. While the smaller parking lot might require some strategic timing for visits, and a pass is required, these minor considerations are far outweighed by the overall quality and benefits the park provides. The friendly and responsible community of dog owners further enhances the experience, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for socialization and shared enjoyment.

Despite seasonal challenges like ice in winter or mud in spring, the park remains a year-round asset for those prepared for the elements. Susan E. Lurton Park is more than just a dog park; it’s a thoughtfully designed recreational hub that promotes canine well-being, responsible pet ownership, and community connection, making it an invaluable resource for local Minnesota families and their beloved four-legged friends. It's truly a place where dogs and owners can thrive.