Minnesota has a lot of Cedar Lakes. If you search for one, you may land on a tiny lake in Stearns County or a lake clear across the state. The one I'm talking about sits in Wright County, near Annandale, Maple Lake, and Silver Creek.
It's worth knowing, especially if deep water is on your list.
The basics
Lake-Link lists Cedar Lake at about 790 acres with roughly 7 miles of shoreline. The maximum depth is about 108 feet, and the average is about 30 feet.
That maximum is deeper than West Lake Sylvia, which tops out at 97 feet. It's far deeper than Lake John's 28 feet. If you've been comparing lakes by acres alone, this is a good reminder to look at depth too. Depth shapes how a lake warms up, how it fishes, and how it feels from your dock.
When you're home shopping, always double-check that a listing refers to this Cedar Lake. A quick look at the county, the DNR lake number, and the map will save you some confusion.
Fish and lake health
The fish list is long. Lake-Link's species list includes walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, and yellow perch, along with cisco, also called tullibee.
A 2019 DNR nearshore survey found 23 native species, including six that are sensitive to habitat disturbance. DNR staff also ran a standard gill net and trap net survey that summer. If fishing is a big part of why you want a lake home, check the DNR's LakeFinder for the current survey and stocking records.
Getting on the water
Lake-Link reports two public boat launches on Cedar Lake. That's useful if you'd like to rent first and try the lake for a weekend, or if friends want to bring their own boat. It's also worth noticing where those launches are if you're looking at a specific home.
What about invasive species?
I don't have a current, verified status for Cedar Lake to share in this post, so I'd rather point you to the right source than guess. The DNR publishes a list of infested waters, and its invasive species staff can tell you what has been confirmed.
Ask this about any lake you're considering, and ask the current owners what they've noticed around their own shoreline. Minnesota law requires drying docks, lifts, and swim rafts for at least 21 days before moving them to another water body, whether or not a lake is listed as infested. So if you're planning to bring a dock from a previous lake place, build that into your timeline.
Questions to ask on any Cedar Lake home
- How does the lot sit? Walk down to the water. Count the steps. Think about carrying a cooler, or helping a grandparent down to the dock.
- How does the shoreline get its sun? Ask which way it faces. Morning coffee and evening sunsets are different lots.
- What's the bottom like? Deep lakes can still have soft bays. Look at summer photos if you're touring in the off season.
- What's the septic status? Wright County's point-of-sale rules may apply. Ask for the certificate early, and check the expiration date.
- When was the well tested? The Minnesota Department of Health suggests testing for coliform bacteria, nitrate, arsenic, lead, and manganese.
- What can you build? Shoreland rules affect additions, garages, and the work you may want to do near the water. Call Wright County Planning & Zoning before you assume.
Who it fits
Cedar Lake could be a fit if you want a sizable, deep lake and easy access to both Annandale and Maple Lake. If you're driving from the Twin Cities or St. Cloud on a Friday night, check the route during normal traffic too. A place that's easy to reach is a place you'll actually use.
I always tell buyers to compare at least two lakes. You'll learn what matters to you, and what doesn't, faster than any list could tell you.
Ready to see Cedar Lake?
Start with my Wright County guide, or reach out and we'll put together a day of lake tours. Bring your questions. Bring the kids if you'd like.
Hollie Engle
320.423.0902
www.hollieengle.com
Hollie Engle Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton RE.
Lake details come from public sources and can change. Verify them for any specific property.
