Phelps Bay is nestled to the west of Spring Park Bay on Upper Lake Minnetonka, bordered by the cities of Mound, Minnetrista, and Shorewood. This picturesque bay falls within the Mound Westonka School District, making it an ideal location for families. The bay is named after Carrington Phelps, a notable landowner who developed 400 acres in the area. One standout feature of Phelps Bay is Enchanted Island, a charming residential community in Minnetrista. The island is characterized by its lush wetland, expansive ponds, and a scenic channel that runs alongside the main thoroughfare, making it a desirable place to call home.
Phelps Bay boasts a maximum water depth of 30 feet and is rated B for water quality by the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District. Generally, the water is clean and suitable for various recreational activities, although swimmers may encounter occasional algae blooms toward the end of summer.
There are no boating restrictions on Phelps Bay, allowing for a variety of water activities.
Residents and visitors can access Phelps Bay through the Phelps Bay Boat Launch, conveniently located just 5 minutes from downtown Mound. This public launch, situated off Eastshore Drive, does not have a dedicated parking lot but allows for on-street parking, making it accessible for boaters.
Phelps Bay features three picturesque islands: Goose Island, Shady Island, and Spray Island. Goose Island is a popular gathering spot, complete with a public dock and a sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and socializing. Meanwhile, Shady and Spray Islands are predominantly residential, where visitors can often find boats anchored nearby, providing shelter from the waves of Lake Minnetonka. These islands offer a serene escape for an evening sunset over the bay. In the winter months, Phelps Bay transforms into a hub for ice fishing, attracting anglers eager to catch Sunfish, Perch, and Crappies. As soon as the lake freezes over, the bay becomes bustling with ice houses until the first Monday of March, making it a vibrant winter destination.