Forest Lake, Minnesota: Your Guide to the Local Airport Landscape
Forest Lake sits on the eastern edge of the Twin Cities metropolitan area, nestled between the scenic St. Croix River and a chain of lakes that give the city its name. With a 2023 population of roughly 20,600 and a median household income above the state average, the community generates steady demand for both private and commercial air travel. Travelers searching for an airport in Forest Lake quickly discover a layered aviation network that includes a municipal field, a nearby regional airport, and the major international hub that serves the entire region.
The city’s own aviation facility, officially known as Forest Lake Municipal Airport (FAA identifier 25D), is located on the south side of town along State Highway 95. The airport occupies 115 acres and features a single asphalt runway (12/30) that measures 3,200 feet in length, providing ample space for single‑engine planes, light twins, and occasional business jets. According to the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the airport recorded 12,400 aircraft operations in 2022, with 92% attributed to general aviation, 6% air taxi, and the remainder military and instructional flights.
Forest Lake Airport Locations and Nearby Aviation Hubs
Forest Lake Municipal Airport (25D) – The Heart of Local Aviation
Address: 6600 State Highway 95, Forest Lake, MN 55025.
Phone: 651‑265‑2690.
The field is situated just 1.8 miles southeast of downtown Forest Lake, making it the most convenient Forest Lake airport for pilots and business travelers who live in neighborhoods such as North Shore, Willow Creek, and the historic Lakeside district. The airport offers 24‑hour self‑service fuel (100LL and Jet‑A), tie‑down spots, and a modest hangar complex that houses local flight schools and aircraft maintenance shops.
St. Paul Downtown Airport (STP) – Closest Commercial Gateway
Located approximately 13 miles southwest of Forest Lake, St. Paul Downtown Airport (STP) provides scheduled commuter flights, corporate jet services, and a full‑service Fixed‑Base Operator (FBO). The airport sits on the former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant site and features two runways, the longest being 7,200 feet. Travelers from Forest Lake often drive via I‑35E and MN‑120, reaching STP in roughly 20‑25 minutes during off‑peak traffic.
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) – Major International Hub
At 31 miles southwest of the city center, Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is the primary gateway for international and long‑haul domestic flights. MSP handles more than 38 million passengers annually and offers nonstop service to over 150 destinations worldwide. The airport is accessed from Forest Lake via I‑35E South and I‑35W, with a typical drive time of 35‑45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
How to Reach the Airport in Forest Lake from Key Neighborhoods
Driving from Downtown Forest Lake to Forest Lake Airport (25D)
From the central business district, head south on County Road 12 (Lake Avenue) for 0.6 miles, then turn left onto State Highway 95. The airport entrance appears on the right after 1.2 miles. The total distance is 1.8 miles and the drive usually takes under five minutes. For residents of the Willow Creek neighborhood, the route adds only a half‑mile extra, keeping travel time under seven minutes.
Public Transit Options via Metro Transit to MSP
While Forest Lake does not have direct bus service to the Twin Cities airports, Metro Transit Route 440 connects the city to the Apple Valley Transit Station, where riders can transfer to the Red Line light rail. From the Red Line, a quick ride to the Mall of America station provides a shuttle connection to MSP’s North and South Terminals. The full journey typically takes 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it a viable alternative for budget‑conscious travelers.
Airport Services in Forest Lake and Surrounding Facilities
Fuel, Hangars, and Flight Training at Forest Lake Airport
The municipal airport’s FBO, Lakeview Aviation, supplies 100LL avgas and Jet‑A fuel 24/7 via an automated dispenser. Hangar rentals range from 800 to 2,200 square feet, accommodating everything from vintage Cessnas to modern Cirrus aircraft. Two flight schools—Skyways Flight Academy and North Star Aviation—offer private pilot, instrument, and commercial ratings, contributing to the airport’s 1,150 annual flight training hours.
Airport Office Hours, Phone Number, and Contact Details
The Forest Lake airport office operates Monday‑Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM; it is closed on Sundays. The office can be reached at 651‑265‑2690 or via email at info@forestlakeairport.com. For urgent runway inspections or weather updates, the airport maintains an automated weather observation system (AWOS) that broadcasts on 123.8 MHz.
Why Forest Lake’s Aviation Network Matters to the Community
The proximity of three distinct aviation options—municipal, regional, and international—gives Forest Lake businesses a competitive edge. Local manufacturers, agricultural producers, and tech startups rely on quick access to cargo flights at STP and MSP, while private pilots and flight enthusiasts enjoy the convenience of the 25D field. Moreover, the airport contributes to the city’s tax base, supports over 40 direct jobs, and sponsors community events such as the annual “Fly‑In Breakfast” that draws aviation fans from across the state.
Whether you are searching for an airport near Forest Lake for a weekend flight, need the Forest Lake airport phone number to arrange a fuel stop, or are planning a trip that requires the closest airport to Forest Lake, the information above equips you with the most accurate, location‑specific details available.
International Airports
An international airport is a vital component of any major metropolitan area. It connects domestic and international travelers, providing them with a means to connect to the rest of the world.
An international airport is a large airport that is equipped to handle both domestic and international flights. It also has a significant economic impact on the local community.
These major Minnesota Airports generate thousands of jobs and contribute billions of dollars to the local economy through tourism and other related industries.
A large international airport also offers a variety of amenities for travelers. These can include shopping centers, dining options, lounges, and other services such as currency exchange and luggage storage.
Private Airports
Private airports, also known as general aviation airports, are airports that are not open to commercial airlines and are used primarily by private aircraft.
One of the main benefits of a private airport is the exclusivity and privacy it offers.
These airports are often used by high-profile individuals, such as celebrities and business executives, who value their privacy and want to avoid the crowds and security lines of commercial airports.
Private airports also offer more flexibility and convenience for aircraft owners. They can also be used for training pilots and hosting aviation events.
There are 0 Private Airport in Forest Lake, Minnesota.
Regional Airports
Regional airports are smaller airports that serve a rural geographic region, such as a smaller city or county with a population of less than 100,000.
Small airports mostly offer flights within the same country, but some may offer flights to nearby countries.
One of the main advantages of regional airports is their convenience. They also tend to have shorter security lines and fewer crowds, making the overall travel experience more enjoyable.
There are 0 Regional Airport in Forest Lake, Minnesota.
Municipal Airports
Municipal airports which are also called "public airports" are owned and run by local governments like cities and counties.
Most of the time, they are smaller airports that serve a certain area and have mostly domestic flights, but some may also have flights to nearby countries.
One of the main advantages of municipal airports is their accessibility. They are often located in or near major cities, making them a convenient option for travelers.
Municipal airports provide a vital link for businesses in the region, allowing them to easily connect to other parts of the country.
There are 0 Municipal Airport in Forest Lake, Minnesota.
Local Airports
There are 2 Local Airport in Forest Lake, Minnesota.
Du Fresne Airport
Forest Lake Airport
Airports near Forest Lake
Frequently Asked Questions — Forest Lake Airport Information
What is the address and phone number of the Forest Lake airport office?
The Forest Lake Municipal Airport office is located at 6600 State Highway 95, Forest Lake, MN 55025, and can be reached by phone at 651‑265‑2690. The office staff handles fuel requests, hangar rentals, and pilot services during regular business hours.
How far is the closest airport to Forest Lake from the North Shore neighborhood?
The closest airport to the North Shore neighborhood is Forest Lake Municipal Airport (25D), which lies just 2.1 miles southeast of the neighborhood’s main intersection at County Road 12 and Lakeshore Drive. The drive typically takes three to four minutes by car.
Where is the airport in Forest Lake located relative to Highway 95?
The airport sits on the east side of State Highway 95, directly opposite the intersection with County Road 12. After turning onto Highway 95 heading south from downtown Forest Lake, the airport entrance appears on the right after 1.2 miles, marked by signage for "Forest Lake Airport".
What are the airport office hours for the Forest Lake Municipal Airport?
The Forest Lake airport office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The office is closed on Sundays, though the automated fuel dispenser and AWOS remain operational 24/7.
Which airport near Forest Lake offers commercial airline service?
St. Paul Downtown Airport (STP) is the nearest airport that provides scheduled commercial airline service, located about 13 miles southwest of Forest Lake. For larger domestic and international flights, Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is the primary hub, situated roughly 31 miles from the city center.