Gideons Bay
Gideons Bay has a reputation as one of Lake Minnetonka’s "quieter corners."
Gideons Bay is one of the smaller but well-known bays on Lake Minnetonka, located in Hennepin County, Minnesota. It sits just off the city of Mound, on the western side of the lake, and has a quieter, more residential vibe compared to the busier parts of Lake Minnetonka like Wayzata Bay or Excelsior Bay.
Key Features:
Residential Charm: The shoreline of Gideons Bay is lined with lake homes—ranging from older cabins to modern lakefront properties. It's popular among homeowners who want lake access without the constant boat traffic and noise of larger bays.
Calmer Waters: Gideons Bay tends to be calmer than many of Lake Minnetonka’s other bays, making it ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and casual boating. It's not typically a party bay—more family-oriented and laid-back.
Close to Mound: The bay is adjacent to the town of Mound, which gives residents and visitors quick access to local amenities, including shopping, dining, and the popular Surfside Park & Beach.
Wildlife and Scenery: Like most of Lake Minnetonka, Gideons Bay has a strong connection to nature. Waterfowl, fish, and lush lake vegetation are common sights. Sunsets here reflect off the water in classic Minnesota fashion—serene and striking.
Accessibility: It's not a hotspot for public boat access, which helps keep traffic light, but it's easy to reach if you’re staying locally or know someone with dock access.
Local Reputation:
Gideons Bay has a reputation as one of Lake Minnetonka’s "quieter corners." It’s where locals go to enjoy the lake without the weekend party scene. It’s ideal for families, retirees, and anyone who wants the beauty of the lake with a little more peace.
Gideon’s Bay on Lake Minnetonka carries a rich and storied past, closely tied to one of Minnesota’s pioneering horticulturalists—Peter M. Gideon.
🌳 Origins and Namesake
1853: Peter M. Gideon, an apple farmer, claimed a 160‑acre parcel on what is now called Gideon’s Bay. He served as superintendent of the State Fruit Farm and later developed the famous “Wealthy” apple, named after his wife Wealthy Hall.
The bay was officially named in his honor, and in 1912, a plaque was unveiled near his homestead (Gideon Lane & Glen Road, Tonka Bay) to commemorate his horticultural legacy.
🍎 Horticultural Legacy
Gideon’s development of the hardy Wealthy apple laid the groundwork for popular varieties like Haralson and Honeycrisp.
His homestead became a regional icon, attracting visitors and influencing local apple cultivation.
🛶 Bay’s Early Role & Surroundings
Located west of Excelsior Bay, Gideon’s Bay borders the cities of Excelsior, Tonka Bay, and Shorewood, covering around 160–185 acres with a depth of about 57 feet and excellent water clarity.
Nearby features:
Duck Island, Frog Island, and Sunrise Point.
The shoreline has evolved from orchards and farmhouses to historic cottages and modern estates.
🏛 Historical Context
Gideon settled soon after significant developments:
1852 Treaty of Traverse des Sioux opened land to Euro‑American settlers.
1852–1853: European exploration and advent of rail and steamboat access across the lake.
The era saw Lake Minnetonka transform from remote wilderness into a major resort destination, especially with the streetcar boat system in the early 1900s.
🧩 Lasting Impact
The bay still bears Gideon’s name, and his homestead plaque remains a local landmark.
Gideon’s contribution to apple breeding helped pave the way for Minnesota’s thriving fruit industry—and his legacy lives on not only in the bay’s name but in orchards state‑wide.
