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Lake Minnetonka, spanning 14,528 acres in Minnesota, is a sprawling aquatic paradise that beckons with its vast expanse and intricate network of kettle lakes, channels, and marshlands. This ninth-largest lake in Minnesota boasts 18 islands and a staggering 125 miles of shoreline, offering a diverse landscape for adventure seekers and wellness enthusiasts alike.
For families, Big Willow Park and Excelsior Commons Park are must-visits, featuring picnic areas, sports fields, hiking and biking trails, and a swim pond perfect for hot summer days. History buffs will find fascination in the Minnetonka Historical Society and the Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society, which showcase the region’s rich past through exhibits, artifacts, and compelling stories.
Adventure travelers can enjoy a historic ride on the Steamboat Minnehaha, a floating museum built in 1906, or explore the cultural significance of the lake at sacred sites like Spirit Knob. With its warm waters in the summer and picturesque scenery, Lake Minnetonka is an ideal destination for boating, sailing, and fishing. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities, historical insights, or simply a tranquil retreat, Lake Minnetonka offers an enriching and invigorating experience.
- Surface area (mi)
- 61.08
- Max depth (ft)
- 111.55
- Elevation (ft)
- 839.9
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 124.27
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Jet Skiing
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Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Marinas on Lake Minnetonka Vacation Rentals
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Minnetonka Vacation Rentals has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are safety precautions to take before swimming in Lake Minnetonka. Be aware of boat traffic and towing activities, and avoid swimming within 150 feet of swim areas, skin or scuba diver’s flags, or docks. Also, watch for changing lake conditions such as wakes and weather.
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Lake Minnetonka is a popular destination because of its large size and diverse recreational activities. It offers water sports like skiing, wakeboarding, and fishing, as well as biking and hiking trails, disc golf, and picnic spots. The lake’s varied fish community, including largemouth bass, sunfish, and muskie, also attracts anglers.
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The fishing season for northern pike in Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota, starts on May 10, 2025, and runs until February 22, 2026. The possession limits vary by zone, but for Lake Minnetonka, it generally follows the Southern Zone rules, which typically allow a minimum size of 24 inches and a limit of two northern pike per person.
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The Lake Minnetonka Swim Pond is best for families. It has a small, 1.75-acre body of water that is chlorinated and filtered, making it safe for swimming. The pond also features a sandy beach, umbrellas, and amenities like changing rooms and a concession stand.
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The towns located directly on the shores of Lake Minnetonka are Deephaven, Excelsior, Greenwood, Minnetonka, Minnetonka Beach, Minnetrista, Mound, Orono, Shorewood, Spring Park, Tonka Bay, Victoria, Wayzata, and Woodland. These towns are part of Hennepin and Carver Counties and are known for their diverse communities and natural beauty. They include various school districts and conservation efforts.
