6851 N Shore Trail N Welcome to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on Forest Lake’s coveted “Gold Coast” — a 1 owner, custom built lakeshore estate designed to feel like a timeless 1920s seaside cottage. Crafted in 2005, this one-of-a-kind home rests on a beautifully landscaped 550’ deep lot with 100’ of south-facing sandy shoreline on Forest Lake’s desirable First Lake. Positioned 400 feet from the road, the home offers serenity, abundant natural light & gentle summer breezes—just minutes from local amenities & freeway access, allowing for an easy 35-minute commute to the Twin Cities. Designed by renowned architect Ben Nelson, the home showcases exceptional craftsmanship with 12” precast Spancrete floors, TimberStrand framing & in-floor radiant heat on all three levels (excluding the upper garage & guest apartment). Energy-efficient features include 2x6 construction, Corbond foam insulation, Owens Corning Berkshire shingles & maintenance-free Nailite siding with Azek trim. The property features an impressive, attached garage configuration with a 3+ car upper garage and a 4+ car lower garage—offering exceptional space for vehicles, hobbies & all your recreational equipment, from lake gear to outdoor toys. The lower garage is fully equipped with in-floor heat, a floor drain, insulated walls & a 100-amp subpanel, adding functionality & year-round usability. The home offers 4 bedrooms, a dedicated office & additional flexible spaces perfect for a sewing room, workout room, or creative studio. It also includes a separate living suite—providing versatility for a variety of lifestyles, multi-generational living, or extended guests. There are 3 full baths, 3 three-quarter baths & 1 half baths. Most bedrooms feature beautiful lake views, enhancing the connection to the setting throughout. The spectacular great room features soaring cathedral ceilings, a floor-to-ceiling stone gas fireplace, custom built-ins & panoramic lake views. Majestic eagles often glide across the water, adding to the peaceful, scenic setting. The home also features a dedicated 13-seat theater room—perfect for movie nights, entertaining, or enjoying the big game in comfort. The main-floor primary suite offers a private lakeview balcony, a marble fireplace, a jetted tub, a rain shower, dual marble sinks, a walk-in closet & a charming nautical porthole window with patio seating. The chef’s kitchen is thoughtfully designed with a 6-burner Viking range, double wall oven, Miele panel-front dishwasher, granite island, copper ceiling & custom cabinetry. Adjacent are a formal dining room & an inviting breakfast space. The main-floor laundry features Zodiac blue quartz counters, a washer/dryer, a sink & a convenient laundry chute. Enjoy year-round lakeside living in the 3-season porch, which features a vaulted ceiling & E-Z Breeze window system, along with a maintenance-free Azek deck added in 2023. Every space reflects thoughtful design, comfort & timeless character. The private guest apartment above the garage offers access from the loft & a separate entrance from the main-level garage, providing excellent flexibility & privacy. This space includes a full kitchen, dining area, bedroom, three-quarter bath with a fully tiled shower, hickory floors, skylight & baseboard heat—ideal for guests, extended family, or independent living.