Linwood offers lakeside rural charm and countryside atmosphere
The wooded expanse of Linwood certainly confirms Minnesota’s "Land of the Lakes" nickname is accurate - there are 11 in the area itself, and many more surrounding it. Many residents commute south to the Twin Cities on either of the highways that flank Linwood, keeping the bustle of city life at a comfortable distance when they return home in the evening. “Linwood is a big area, and it’s often considered a part of Stacy,” says Realtor Mary Beck of Realty Executives Top Results. “Most people who live there live around the lakes, so in between, it is very rural. That’s the draw, really. It’s secluded, but still within reach of the city.”
Lake access and lot size influence pricing
Residential roads sprawl through the area, with most homes clustered on the tree-lined lakeshores. “You’ll find smaller developments throughout Linwood, but you’ll also find homes with acreage,” Beck says. “It’s mostly single-family homes, and there has been some new construction going on lately.” Midcentury ranch-style and split-level houses are common, along with Modern Traditional builds and small cottages. Prices can vary widely, ranging from $120,000 to $865,000. “Cost is going to depend primarily upon whether you’re buying for lake access or for acreage,” Beck continues. “Typically, homes on the smaller lakes will be a little less expensive.”
Forest Lake High School is a Nordic skiing powerhouse
Students in Linwood attend schools in the Forest Lake Public School District, which offers open enrollment. Linwood Elementary School, located in the area, scores a B-minus from Niche. Forest Lake Area Middle also earns a B-minus. Forest Lake High School receives a B and offers a Nordic skiing athletic program for both boys and girls. The teams have won a combined nine state championships since 2005.
Year-round recreation includes boating, fishing, skiing and hockey
The lakes scattered throughout Linwood are a major source of recreation for the area. “Linwood Lake, especially, is one of the smaller lakes in the area, which means it’s usually not as busy,” Beck says. “All the lakes in the area are great for fishing, and you can take motor boats out on most of them, too.” During the winter, ice fishing is possible, as is pickup pond hockey when conditions are safe. Hunters can head to the Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area for a chance at deer, pheasants, waterfowl and even bear.
Nearby towns make up for Linwood's limited shopping
There is hardly any commercial footprint directly in Linwood, although residents can make quick trips to the White Pines General Store for pantry staples and live bait. “All the major shopping, like Walmart and Target, is going to be in Forest Lake, although there is a little supermarket called Bruce’s Foods in Wyoming,” Beck says. Wyoming is also home to the closest medical center. Restaurants like the Village Inn offer classic American diner food, and Cornerstone Pub and Prime has been a favorite stop for live music and cold beer since 1989.
Interstate 35 and Highway 65 are key commuter lanes
There is no public transit available in Linwood. Residents will rely on Interstate 35 and state Highway 65 when heading into Minneapolis and St. Paul. “The commute to the Twin Cities takes about 30 to 45 minutes on I-35, depending on whereabouts you’re starting from,” Beck says. “You could also take Viking Boulevard to Highway 65, but that route can take about an hour. It’s a pretty common commute for folks who live out there.”
