Independent neighborhood guide, not affiliated with any homeowners association, property manager, city or official board.
Updated October 23, 2026
A neighborhood wrapped around the northwest tip of a quiet lake, with Lake Minnetonka’s West Arm close by. Forest Lake has a peaceful, lake-cabin feel.
The Forest Lake neighborhood is in west Orono, on the northwestern tip of Forest Lake. It has about 28 single-family homes, many with lake views.
Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying.
What’s close by
Forest Lake offers swimming, paddling and fishing, and the West Arm of Lake Minnetonka is nearby. Noerenberg Memorial County Park’s gardens, Woodhill Country Club (a certified Audubon sanctuary), Long Lake and Colonial Square in Wayzata are short drives. See Orono parks and trails.
What buyers check before they tour
- Schools: Forest Lake is served by Orono Public Schools (ISD 278), whose schools share a campus along Old Crystal Bay Road, including Schumann Elementary, Orono Intermediate, Orono Middle and Orono High School. Boundaries can change, so confirm the assigned schools for any address with the district.
- Lakeshore: Ask about frontage, dock rights and shoreland rules, and check the property on FEMA’s flood map. Get an insurance quote early.
- Well and septic: Many Orono homes use private wells and septic systems. Plan a well test and septic inspection where they apply.
- Condition: Roof, windows, mechanicals and drainage tell you more about a home’s next ten years than the paint color does. Plan a professional inspection.
A simple plan for your Forest Lake move
I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes around Lake Minnetonka for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.
Getting the house ready, or making it yours
If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. Learn more about Orono, its parks and trails and community life, or see nearby Elmwood.
Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.
Your next step in Forest Lake
Homes around Lake Minnetonka are priced lot by lot. Whether you’re selling or buying, I’ll help you make a plan that fits.
Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with sellers and buyers, and that’s where I can help you most in Forest Lake.
Stay close to the market, without the noise.
Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Orono homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.
Thank you! You’re on the list.
I’m glad you’re here. A quick confirmation is on its way to your inbox. Whenever you want to talk about your own home or a move, I’m a call or text away.
