Forest Lake | Lake Minnetonka Real Estate™

Forest Lake is a serene and picturesque bay nestled within the expansive Lake Minnetonka in Orono, Minnesota. Known for its tranquil waters and lush surroundings, Forest Lake offers a unique blend of natural beauty and accessibility, making it a coveted destination for homebuyers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Its proximity to neighboring communities such as North Arm Bay and West Arm enhances its appeal, providing residents with a harmonious balance of seclusion and connectivity.  

Why Choose Forest Lake?  

Scenic Beauty and Lifestyle: Forest Lake is characterized by its calm waters and verdant landscapes, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The bay's gentle environment is ideal for a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. The limited boat traffic ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for water sports enthusiasts of all levels.  

Prime Location and Accessibility: Situated in Orono, Forest Lake provides convenient access to major roadways such as North Shore Drive and North Arm Drive, facilitating easy commutes to the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The nearby town centers offer a variety of amenities, including shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, ensuring that residents have everything they need within a short drive.  

Notable Nearby Bays, Islands, and Points: Forest Lake's location offers residents the opportunity to explore adjacent bays and landmarks. Notable nearby areas include:  

  • North Arm Bay: Renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities and serene environment, North Arm Bay is a favorite among anglers and nature lovers.
  • West Arm: This bay offers a vibrant community atmosphere with access to local shops and dining options, providing a lively contrast to the tranquility of Forest Lake.
  • Skogsberg Point: A scenic point known for its beautiful views and recreational opportunities, Skogsberg Point is a great spot for picnicking and relaxation located on nearby West Arm.  

Water Quality & Clarity  

Forest Lake is known for its clean and clear waters, attributed to the community's commitment to environmental stewardship and conservation efforts. The bay's depth and natural filtration systems contribute to its excellent water quality, making it ideal for swimming and other water-based activities. Seasonal variations may affect water clarity, but overall, Forest Lake maintains a high standard of cleanliness and ecological health.  

Real Estate on Forest Lake – What to Expect  

The real estate landscape around Forest Lake is diverse, offering a range of properties from charming cottages to luxurious lakefront estates. Many homes feature desirable amenities such as private docks, expansive lake views, and spacious outdoor areas perfect for entertaining. The area's real estate market is characterized by limited inventory and high demand, reflecting the desirability of this tranquil lakeside community. Recent listings have showcased homes with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, ample garage space, and significant shoreline frontage, highlighting the premium nature of Forest Lake properties.  

Schools and School District  

Residents of Forest Lake are served by the highly regarded Orono School District, known for its commitment to academic excellence and comprehensive educational programs. The district includes:  

  • Orono Intermediate School: Catering to grades 3-5, offering a robust curriculum and a variety of extracurricular activities.
  • Orono Middle School: Serving grades 6-8, focusing on academic growth and personal development.
  • Orono High School: Recognized for its strong academic programs, athletics, and arts, providing students with a well-rounded education.  

The district's commitment to fostering a supportive and challenging learning environment makes Forest Lake an attractive option for families seeking quality education for their children.  

Buying or Selling on Forest Lake  

If you're considering buying or selling a property on Forest Lake, partnering with a trusted local real estate expert is essential. The unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and community amenities makes Forest Lake a highly desirable location. Connect with us today to explore available listings or to discuss strategies for maximizing your property's value in this sought-after market.  

Explore other nearby bays to discover the perfect spot that aligns with your lifestyle:  

  • North Arm Bay: Known for its serene environment and excellent fishing opportunities.
  • West Arm: Offers a vibrant community with access to local shops and dining options.
  • Skogsberg Point: Features beautiful views and recreational opportunities on nearby West Arm. 


Embrace the tranquil and fulfilling lifestyle that Forest Lake offers, and make it your home today. Contact us today to get started!

$5,250,000
ACTIVE Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 6817697 MLS ⋅ 5,085 SqFt.
Privately gated and completed just four years ago, this exceptional French Country estate offers direct access to Lake Minnetonka’s coveted North Arm and showcases the quality, craftsmanship, and condition of like-new construction. A remarkable collaboration between David Charlez Designs, Brooke Voss Interior Design, and Zehnder Homes, the residence seamlessly blends timeless architecture with fresh, modern finishes throughout. Thoughtfully designed for both everyday living and entertaining, the home features white oak hardwood floors, a dramatic double-height great room, designer lighting, and beautifully curated spaces at every turn. The chef’s kitchen is appointed with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, custom cabinetry, and an effortless connection to the home’s expansive indoor and outdoor gathering areas. Resort-inspired amenities include a private gym, sauna, steam shower, spa, large outdoor pool, and professionally landscaped grounds with a fully fenced yard. Offering privacy, luxury, and direct North Arm access, this turnkey residence presents a rare opportunity to own one of the area’s most thoughtfully designed and impeccably executed homes.

940 N Arm Drive, Orono

Listing courtesy of Lakes Sotheby's International.

$1,600,000
CLOSED Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 7044440 MLS ⋅ 5,128 SqFt.
This is a Pleasant, Warm and Casually Elegant Four Bedroom Five Bath Two Story Walkout with 3 Car-Attached and Heated Garage on 177 Feet of a Short Channel to Forest Lake of Lake Minnetonka with Wonderful Relaxing Elevated and Private Western Rear Views from the Interior Spaces as well as a Vaulted Screen Porch and Walkout Level Pool Area surrounded by Boulder Retaining Walls, Paver Bricks and Composite Decking. Additionally, Updated Finishes exist throughout with Stainless Appliances. Natural and Enameled Woodwork, In Floor Heat in the Master Bath and Lower-Level Family Room, Two Gas Fireplaces... and Generously Sized Rooms with Vaults, Raised and Beamed Ceilings... and A Vaulted Office off the Bonus Room Addition Over the Garage adds to the extraordinarily easy and comfortable living -style. There is Plenty of Privacy Space yet Collective Gathering Room... Even the Location is Easy, Quiet and Convenient. A Short Term Closing is also Available...

805 Forest Arms Lane, Orono

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$3,395,000
PENDING Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 7041700 MLS ⋅ 3,401 SqFt.
Beautifully updated Lake Minnetonka retreat overlooking 140’ of lakeshore offering gorgeous water views at every turn! Enjoy the highest level of finish throughout the open flowing floorplan; great room with barrel vaulted ceiling, custom built-ins with fireplace and wall of windows looking out to the water; formal dining room; gourmet kitchen with walk-in pantry and informal dining area that opens to the expansive outdoor patio creating the perfect blend of indoor + outdoor living! Main-level primary suite with spa-like bath and French doors that open to the lakeside patio. The upper-level offers two junior suites, guest bedroom and den/office area. Additional amenities include: main-level laundry and 3-season porch with custom wood ceiling detail. Carriage house with living space and ¾ bathroom; 4+ car heated garage. Serene 2.55 acre setting on a quiet non-through street. Improvements: roof (2022), repainted interior + exterior, added new lakeside patio + stone stairways and much more! See supplement for full list of improvements. Bring your most discerning Buyers!

1074 Wildhurst Trail, Orono

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

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