Some day this summer you'll think of the "great idea" to rent a canoe or kayak at Lake Calhoun. Unfortunately, it can often seem as if everyone else in town had the same great idea. But don't be discouraged. If you really want to get away from it all, there's a secret that many of the others don't know about. Paddle through Lake Calhoun, wind around Lake of the Isles, and creep through the narrow connection to Cedar Lake. You'll likely lose most of the crowds here, but paddle on a little farther. In the very northwestern corner of Cedar Lake you'll find a tiny tunnel just big enough for your canoe to slip through. You've just discovered Brownie Lake, and there's a good chance you'll have it all to yourself. Enjoy.