The rugged land formations of Jay Cooke State Park enhance the beauty of the hardwood forests. The water-eroded gorge, steep valleys, and massive rock formations are seen throughout the park. In some seasons, the water of the St. Louis River thunders over slabs of ancient, exposed rock. At other times, it slows to a gentle trickle. Visitors enjoy the scenic splendor of Jay Cooke State Park during all seasons. Jay Cooke State Park is located at 780 Highway 210 in
Carlton, Minnesota. For more information, click here.
Park trails connect to the Willard Munger State Trail on the north side of the park. Check out the wildflowers in the spring, and the vivid colors in the fall. Walk on the swinging suspension bridge high above the Saint Louis River. Visit the historic cemetery and the gorge at Thomson Dam.
Jay Cooke State Park was established in 1915 when the St. Louis River Power Company donated 2,350 acres of land. In 1945, the state purchased additional land. Other sections have been added over the years, giving Jay Cooke State Park its present size of 8,125 acres. The park is open daily from: 8 a.m. until 10 p.m.
Highlights of the park include:
- Swinging bridge
- Camping
- Hiking
- skiing and snowshoeing
- Pioneer Cemetery
- Thomson Dam
- Oldenburg Point
The promise of food and protection make Jay Cooke State Park an important wintering area for white-tailed deer. Black bear, timber wolf, and coyote are among the largest of 46 animal species in the park. The pileated woodpecker, marsh hawk and the great blue heron are just a few of 173 species of birds that nest and feed in the park. Sixteen species of reptiles and amphibians are found in the park – none of them venomous. Pictures used in this article are provided by the Minnesota State DNR.
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