Lower Lake North: Lake Minnetonka Real Estate™

Lower Lake North is one of the most desirable areas of Lake Minnetonka, known for its stunning scenery, rich history, and luxurious lakefront properties. This northern section of the Lower Lake includes sought-after communities such as Wayzata, Deephaven, and Orono, offering an ideal balance of lakeside tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. Homebuyers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to this area for its vibrant lifestyle, excellent recreational opportunities, and proximity to top-rated schools and charming town centers.  

Why Choose Lower Lake North?  

Scenic beauty and lifestyle: Lower Lake North features breathtaking shorelines, wooded estates, and pristine waters perfect for recreational activities. Residents enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing in a setting that combines luxury with natural beauty. The bay sees moderate boat traffic, making it a great spot for those looking to enjoy the lake without the congestion of more central areas.  

Prime location and accessibility: Lower Lake North is well-connected by key roadways such as U.S. Highway 12 and Interstate 494, making it easy to reach downtown Minneapolis and other parts of the Twin Cities metro. The historic Wayzata Depot and charming downtown Wayzata provide excellent dining, boutique shopping, and entertainment options. Deephaven, Orono, and Excelsior are also nearby, offering additional conveniences, parks, and recreational amenities.  

Notable nearby bays, islands, and points: Lower Lake North is surrounded by some of Lake Minnetonka’s most famous landmarks, including Smiths Bay, Bracketts Point, Browns Bay, Lookout Point, Spirit Island, Breezy Point, Gibsons Point, Sunset Point, and Lighthouse Island. These destinations offer a mix of rich history, scenic beauty, and exclusive residential communities.  

Water Quality & Clarity  

Lower Lake North is known for its excellent water quality and clarity, making it a top choice for swimming, boating, and water sports. The lake benefits from ongoing conservation efforts, ensuring its waters remain clean and healthy. Seasonal variations in clarity are minimal, and the bay’s depth and natural flow contribute to its consistently high water quality. Local environmental organizations and lakeshore homeowners actively work to maintain and protect the bay’s ecosystem.  

Real Estate on Lower Lake North – What to Expect  

Types of homes: The Lower Lake North area offers a mix of historic lakefront estates, modern luxury homes, and charming cottages. Many properties feature expansive lake frontage, private docks, and scenic views, catering to those looking for a premier lakeside lifestyle.  

Desirable property features: Homes in this area often include private boat slips, outdoor entertainment spaces, wooded lots for privacy, and high-end architectural designs that maximize lake views. Some of the most sought-after properties are located along Bracketts Point and Lookout Point, offering unmatched exclusivity and prestige.  

Real estate market trends: Properties in Lower Lake North are in high demand, with limited inventory and strong competition among buyers. Waterfront estates in this area command premium prices due to their prime location, stunning views, and access to top-tier amenities. Buyers should be prepared for a competitive market, while sellers can expect strong appreciation and high resale values.  

Schools and School District  

Residents of Lower Lake North are served by three of the most highly regarded school districts in Minnesota: the Wayzata Public School District, the Minnetonka Public School District, and the Orono Public School District.  

  • Wayzata Public Schools: Includes top-rated institutions such as Wayzata High School, Wayzata East Middle School, and several nationally recognized elementary schools.
  • Minnetonka Public Schools: Home to Minnetonka High School, Minnetonka Middle School East, and excellent elementary schools known for their academic achievements and innovative programs.
  • Orono Public Schools: Includes Orono High School, Orono Middle School, and Orono Intermediate School, all of which have a strong reputation for academic rigor, extracurricular programs, and community involvement.  


With award-winning programs, strong community support, and a commitment to student success, these school districts make Lower Lake North an attractive choice for families.  

Buying or Selling on Lower Lake North  

If you're considering buying or selling a home on Lower Lake North, working with a knowledgeable real estate expert is key to navigating this competitive market. With extensive experience in Lake Minnetonka real estate and a deep understanding of the area's unique neighborhoods, I can help you find the perfect home or maximize your property's value. Contact me today to explore available listings or discuss a personalized strategy for your real estate goals.

Latest listing on Lower Lake North:

$2,595,000
ACTIVE Status 5 Beds 6 Baths 7119728 MLS 5,690 SqFt.
Imagine enjoying rare, one-level living! Lakefront luxury perched in the heart of prestigious Deephaven at this Cottagewood Road “treetop” masterpiece designed to dazzle & inspire! New price approaching 2026 assessed value of $2,560,400!! Entertainer’s delight! Step past its understated exterior & this fully-loaded & exceptionally crafted “Restoration Hardware” style gem offers the ultimate experience in comfort and relaxation and offers the perfect backdrop for gatherings small & large! This NEWER-built* open-concept ranch-style RAMBLER on 147’ of LAKE MINNETONKA LAKE SHORE offers a PRIVATE & SERENE OVERSIZED .56 ACRE LOT, **BOAT SLIPS**, 4.5-CAR GARAGE & NIGHT VIEWS!! on the prestigious CARSON’S BAY in premier Deephaven, Mn! A truly amazing home yet the majority of the value of this property is in the HIGH ELEVATION LAND and its breathtaking year-round views! Highlights include: MAIN-LEVEL PRIMARY, 10’ CEILINGS, LUXURIOUS BAR, MOVIE ROOM, UPSCALE APPLIANCES, HEATED FLOORING, EXTENSIVE LANDSCAPING, WALK-THRU CLOSET, 2-SIDED FIREPLACE, WELL WATER & so much more! In addition to unusual privacy on LAKE MINNETONKA LAKESHORE, which holds an "A" water quality rating!, this fully-loaded 5 BR (+den/office)/6 bath, 4.5-car*** home offers Deephaven Elementary/MTKA EAST/MHS schools, voluminous ceilings & windows, all NEW LIGHTING inside & out, finished & HEATED GARAGE, AMPLE PARKING, LOWER LAKE TAXES, designer finishes! 4 DOCKS/COVERED SLIPS SHARED between 3 homes, private 3-season CEDAR PORCH, GRANITE OPEN-CONCEPT KITCHEN, lower-level GRANITE BAR complete w/sink, Bosch dishwasher, wine fridge, newer outdoor SHED, 2 finished & painted garages (lg one heated), in-floor heating in 65+% of the home & large unfinished storage room. 6 well-appt bathrooms, hand-scraped walnut floors, premium Hunter Douglas window treatments, stunning entrance & DR chandeliers! Even a Mother-In-Law Suite!! ASK us for information on easy conversions to 5 to 6, 7 or even 8 bedrooms! Designed to take full advantage of the stunning views, the main level offers 3 BR +office & 3 baths, a grand open-concept kitchen that features tons of cabinets, a walk-in pantry & high-end appliances, incl: Jen Aire oven/stove, Wolff microwave & Liebherr refrigerator. Huge owner’s suite w/lg windows, lg walk-thru closet, sitting area, 2-sided fireplc, lg mounted TV & 14-in. thick windowsills (thru-out most of the home)! Spacious en-suite bathroom w/dble shower, jacuzzi bath, in-floor heat & lg walk-thru closet. Primary suite & kitchen both open to a screened 3-season porch. Beautiful wrought iron spindles lead you to the lower level of this retreat, featuring walls of windows, 9’ ceilings, luxurious bar & a stamped concrete deck that greet you along w/3 sparkling bathrooms,1 w/jacuzzi! Gorgeous, lg sun-filled granite bar area w/Bosch dishwasher, built-in wine fridge, sink & ample cabinetry. Prof decorated movie room w/upscale theater seating, dimmable lighting, built-in shelving & lg screen TV. Add’l game/music/sitting room w/built-in shelving. Dble-sz spare br/office w/a spacious walk-in closet, 3 lg+2 sm windows (could be split into 2BRs by adding a wall & door). 2 add’l rooms w/doors past movie room, 1 w/outdoor access. In-floor heating thruout, 2 HVAC units (1 new), commercial-grade water heater, water softener, whole house water filter +3-stage R/O system, irrigation system, well water w/strong pressure. Lower level opens to beautiful bkyd featuring lg deck, new shed, fire pit & picturesque dock. A finished & painted 1.5+ stall 2nd garage w/3 windows & drain & water. 3-foot eaves, solid-core doors, recessed lighting, professional closets thru-out. This is a “Must See in Person” home steps from Cottagewood, Mtka Regional Trail & the Minnetonka Yacht Club & minutes from Thorpe Park, dt Excelsior, popular shopping & world-class restaurants. 22 min to airport. Seller financing-all offers considered. *2011=90% foundation new,rare for Mtka lakefront.

19900 Cottagewood Road, Deephaven

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty - Lakes.

$9,995,000
ACTIVE Status 6 Beds 7 Baths 7110272 MLS 6,033 SqFt.
Truly a RARE, once in a lifetime offering! The last prime A++ West-NW facing estate property remaining. Prime Main Lower Lake. Prime Woodland. Hard sand bottom lakeshore. A-grade water quality. Five minutes by boat into Wayzata, on one of the most coveted runs of shoreline on all of Lake Minnetonka, nestled into the Greenwich, Connecticut-like community in Minnesota — the Maplewoods neighborhood of Woodland. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. This estate offers unparalleled privacy from both the street approach and its commanding, perched presence above the water and boasts 3.76 acres and 255 feet of lakeshore. The experience begins at the cusp of the driveway, where the path descends into a private sanctuary. The meandering topography and sheer scale of the land provide a rich context for the current estate while offering incredible potential for future visions. From its commanding westerly sunset vistas and elevated perch, the estate offers long, deep-water views across the Main Lower Lake, Spirit Island and toward Ferndale — a vantage few properties on the lake can claim. Built in 1925 for the Phillip Duff family, the main residence was designed by Edwin Hewitt, the architect behind the Minneapolis School of Fine Arts, the Blake School, and the Woodhill and Lafayette Country Clubs. The home retains its historic character and period detailing while benefiting from a thorough 2003 renovation — updated electrical and plumbing, asbestos abatement, buried power lines, high-efficiency boilers, two whole-house generators (2000) and a comprehensive drainage system engineered to route water around and away from the tennis court. A charming casita, built new in 2003 as a mini-replica of the main house, adds a 2,200 sq. ft. guest or studio space in keeping with the original architecture. The grounds are as distinctive as the residence. A private Har-Tru clay tennis court anchors the landscape, surrounded by native flowers and plantings, a fenced garden suited to herbs, vegetables, and fruit, and two five-foot beehives managed by the University of Minnesota — together yielding nearly 40 pounds of "Gale Road Gold" honey each year, a private farmer's market steps from the front door. For buyers with a vision beyond the current estate, a concept plan already exists for a two-lot subdivision, creating two distinct lakefront parcels. Whether the next chapter is stewardship of a landmark Hewitt residence or the creation of an entirely new legacy, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on Lake Minnetonka.

2730 Gale Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Compass.

$4,500,000
ACTIVE Status 5 Beds 6 Baths 7108425 MLS 7,369 SqFt.
Commanding 180-degree views across Lake Marion and Robinson Bay from a private 6-acre hilltop in Woodland, this Kyle Hunt-crafted Nantucket Shingle-Style estate offers unmatched privacy minutes from downtown Wayzata and top-rated Minnetonka schools with nearly $1M in recent upgrades delivering a like-new experience throughout. The great room anchors the home with a wall of windows framing sweeping lake views, a tray ceiling, and custom tile fireplace. The main-floor office opens through French doors to the deck, while the sun-filled family room flows to the screened porch, wraparound deck, and stone paver patio with each space designed to keep the lake in frame. A kidney-shaped pool with wood decking and glass railings sits nestled among mature oaks, with sight lines to the water preserved from every angle. The chef's kitchen features Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, custom cabinetry, and a large island connected to the dining room through a striking slate-blue butler's pantry. The primary suite offers a spa-caliber marble bath, while three additional en suite bedrooms and a loft complete the upper level. The walkout lower level adds a family room with fireplace and wet bar, billiards room, and a fifth en suite bedroom. Recent upgrades include a new cedar shingle roof, both HVAC systems, water heaters, whole-house generator, remodeled lower level, new wood flooring, and a full electronics package with 16-zone Sonos and three home theater systems.

2875 Gale Road, Woodland

Listing courtesy of Compass.

$4,895,000
ACTIVE Status 7 Beds 6 Baths 7090325 MLS 10,032 SqFt.
Luxury Lake Minnetonka Custom Home Nestled on 1.75 private acres with breathtaking lake views, this extraordinary custom-built residence by Smuckler Architectural Custom Homes offers over 10,000 finish square feet of timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. A dramatic grand foyer welcomes you with soaring ceilings, a sweeping staircase, and stunning architectural details throughout. Expansive walls of windows flood the home with natural light while showcasing spectacular lake views. Designed for both everyday living and exceptional entertaining, the gourmet chef's kitchen features premium finishes and flows seamlessly into spacious gathering areas and a formal dining room. The luxurious main-level owner’s suite offers a private retreat, while main-level laundry and in-floor heating provide everyday comfort and convenience. Featuring 7 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, this home provides abundant space for family and guests. The upper level includes five generously sized bedrooms, while the lower level is built for entertaining with a billiards area, full wet bar, fitness room, sauna, hot tub, and additional guest accommodations. Additional highlights include private lakeshore and dock in Smith Bay, a whole-home surround sound system, an automatic whole-house backup generator for peace of mind, an impressive heated 6-car garage, including a dedicated vehicle lift for additional car storage, and new roof in 2026. This exceptional property combines luxury, comfort, and convenience in a premier location just minutes from downtown Wayzata.

1910 Shoreline Drive, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Counselor Realty, Inc.

$4,550,000
CLOSED Status 5 Beds 4 Baths 7015578 MLS 3,972 SqFt.
Welcome to this timeless, custom-built Lake Minnetonka residence where refined design meets effortless lakeside living. The great room is both inviting and sophisticated, centered around a stone-surround fireplace and expansive sliding doors that open to a deck and beautifully landscaped backyard, perfectly positioned for both intimate mornings and elevated entertaining. Seamlessly connected to the screened-in porch, the home offers a natural flow between indoor and outdoor living, ideal for long summer evenings by the water. A chef’s dream kitchen featuring a beverage fridge, a dedicated coffee station, and a buffet passthrough, with thoughtfully designed pantry storage. Additional features include a main-level office, a spacious mudroom with custom storage plus oversized closet and drop zone. The upper level features five well-appointed bedrooms, including a tranquil primary suite with a private covered deck overlooking the lake. The spa-inspired primary bath has been completely reimagined with sophisticated design finishes, dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a separate walk-in shower. All bedrooms feature walk-in closets, and all bathrooms throughout the home have been updated, complemented by new Restoration Hardware lighting and plush upper-level carpeting. Stepping outdoors reveals a thoughtfully transformed lakeside setting with newly designed landscaping and a new heated in-ground plunge pool. The outdoor culinary terrace is expertly equipped with a built-in grill, cooktop, and beverage cooler, offering a kitchen like setting that transforms lakeside gatherings from casual to exceptional. The unfinished lower level provides flexibility and abundant storage, ready to accommodate a future recreation room, golf simulator, additional bathroom, and more. This home also offers a heated 3 car garage. Located in the coveted Minnetonka Beach neighborhood, this home embodies a lifestyle of relaxed sophistication and timeless Lake Minnetonka living.

2412 Lafayette Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Edina Realty, Inc..

$50,000,000
ACTIVE Status 8 Beds 18 Baths 6812564 MLS 28,990 SqFt.
Introducing Lake Point Estate in Wayzata, MN. A newly completed lakefront residence that redefines legacy living on Minnesota’s most iconic shoreline. Set upon private, gated grounds with commanding west-facing frontage, this extraordinary property was envisioned as a fully realized compound of architectural distinction and enduring beauty. It represents one of the rarest opportunities in the Midwest and on Lake Minnetonka. The main residence, in close relationship with two guest houses, a pool house, lake porch, and boathouse, form a cohesive lakeside retreat designed for grand entertaining and potential for multi-generational living. Every structure reflects the collective vision of an acclaimed team: John Kraemer & Sons, TEA2 Architects, PKA Architecture, MartinPatrick 3, and Topo Landscape Architecture. The result is an uncompromising expression of craftsmanship and design integrity. Imported stone, custom metalwork, and precision millwork converge with thoughtful modern comfort. Offered fully furnished and curated to the last detail, the estate balances artistry and livability. From its stocked chef’s kitchen to expansive lakeside terraces overlooking 650 feet of shoreline along the lower-lake basin, every element reflects a singular commitment to excellence. More than a residence, Lake Point stands as a landmark offering for discerning collectors of architecture and lifestyle. Without question, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own one of the most significant estates on Lake Minnetonka.

2770 Gale Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Engel & Volkers Minneapolis Downtown.

$9,125,000
CLOSED Status 8 Beds 11 Baths 6800415 MLS 11,339 SqFt.
This architectural masterpiece, designed by renowned Studio M, boasts over 11,000 square feet of impeccably finished space, seamlessly integrating dramatic design with resort-style amenities. The residence features eight generously designed bedrooms and eleven meticulously crafted bathrooms, including an opulent main floor primary suite that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the tranquil lake, inviting you to indulge in the serenity of your surroundings. Enjoy this 1.6 acre picturesque lot with south facing views and 160 feet of private lakeshore. The main floor offers floor to ceiling windows with a sprawling view of the lake and high-end finishes throughout, including white oak hardwood floors, custom cabinets, a Sub-Zero refrigerator and wine fridge, Wolf range, Cambria counters, and a prep kitchen with a large walk-in pantry. The upper level accommodates four additional bedrooms and five bathrooms, and each level features its own laundry for maximum convenience. The home also includes a four car heated garage, a fully appointed lower level suite with its own full kitchen, and spectacular custom woodwork throughout. Natural light illuminates every gathering space with an abundance of large windows. The lower level offers radiant in floor heating, and premium finishes provide warmth and elegance. The main floor suite is a dream come true, with an elegant marble bathroom, free standing tub, full glass steam shower, cozy gas fireplace, surround sound, and a breathtaking closet. Off the primary suite, enjoy a sprawling 2,300 square foot stone terrace that extends your views into the sky. Outdoor entertainment is unmatched, with amenities that include a covered porch, outdoor fire pit, custom concrete saltwater pool with an automated childproof cover and spa. The pool deck is finished with high-end pavers, a full outdoor kitchen and shower, integrated surround sound, fully automated lighting, and a football field sized lawn perfect for yard games or volleyball. A separate pool house offers a kitchenette, full bath, laundry, and bunk suite. The private sandy beach is perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. The two private covered dock slips support a 50’ and a 30’ boat. Enjoy the views from the beachside patio while lounging around the fire. This extraordinary lakefront estate captures the essence of luxury living where architectural brilliance meets natural beauty. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to create a lifestyle of comfort, sophistication, and ease. Perfectly positioned between Wayzata and Excelsior, this home offers a rare combination of privacy, prestige, and proximity to the area’s finest shopping, dining, and recreation.

3655 Northome Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of RE/MAX Advantage Plus.

$4,801,000
CLOSED Status 4 Beds 3 Baths 6686074 MLS 4,764 SqFt.
Incredible cottage charm abounds in this remodeled Minnetonka Beach lake home. The home sits on nearly an acre with SE exposure for long, light filled days. Its 90 feet of SE facing lakeshore has sandy bottom and includes a dock with lift. The stunning remodel by PKA architects, Streeter Homes, and Linda Engler Design in 2017 has transformed the space and created breathtaking views to the lake. The Kitchen has a wall of windows to the Lake, featuring premium appliances and materials. Breakfast bar/pantry complements the space. Main open living area with 2 fireplaces. The North side offers a quiet library/study, and a wet bar room that opens to the Lake. The front porch is a gracious 12' by 36' offering multiple screening configurations. Large mudroom and laundry center includes side entry access to the ¾ bath, perfect for lakeside living. Upper-level offers 4 bedrooms including a lake-facing primary bedroom with fireplace, ensuite 3/4 bath, and a dream closet. Two other generous, lake-facing bedrooms share a hall full bath with separate tub and shower. A fourth bedroom functions as a hang-out room for these owners. The unfinished lower level offers ample storage space for lake toys, accessible from the front side of the home. There is also space for additional finishing as might be desired. A new, 2017-built 3-car garage offers additional storage. Convenient access and guest parking around a large circular driveway. Come home!

2482 Lafayette Road, Minnetonka Beach

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty - Lakes.

$1,700,000
CLOSED Status 6559456 MLS
Step into your own private sanctuary with limitless possibilities at this remarkable 14-acre estate, where nature’s beauty and modern architecture blend seamlessly. Nestled amidst towering hardwood trees and offering sweeping views towards Lake Minnetonka’s Tanager Bay, this property presents an extraordinary canvas for your dream home. With 6 acres of buildable land, the slightly sloping walkout elevation provides stunning east-facing sunrises and a serene overlook of the marshland. The property boasts a gently sloping walkout elevation, perfectly positioned to capture breathtaking east-facing sunrises that flood the interior with warm, natural light. Located in the prestigious Orono School District, celebrated for its award-winning and top-ranked schools, this estate offers more than just remarkable natural beauty—it also places you in a highly desirable community. Its premier location ensures you are never far from modern conveniences, with Downtown Wayzata’s upscale dining and shopping, nearby marinas, the scenic Luce Line and Dakota Trail, and the vibrant cultural scene of downtown Minneapolis all within easy reach. This estate is more than just a property; it is a rare opportunity to build a legacy home in one of the region's most coveted locations. Whether you envision a peaceful sanctuary or a dynamic space for hosting and entertaining, this serene setting offers privacy, prestige, and the opportunity to create your own legacy.

860 Brown Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of ERA Prospera Real Estate.

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