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Minnesota
52

Minnesota State Parks

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Minnesota
Arrowhead Region
Jay Cooke State Park
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Jay Cooke State Park Jay Cooke State Park Fall Colors © Lucas Payne
Jay Cooke State Park Jay Cooke Fall Colors © Lucas Payne
Jay Cooke State Park Jay Cooke State Park Fall Colors © Lucas Payne
Jay Cooke State Park © Nancy Bauer
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JAY COOKE STATE PARK
JAY COOKE STATE PARK
780 Highway 210
Carlton, Minnesota   55718

Phone: 218-384-4610
Toll Free: 888-646-6367
Reservations: 866-857-2757
Email: park email button icon
Park trails link up to the Willard Munger State Trail at the north edge of the park; perfect for backpackers, bikers (both mountain and tour), hikers, horseback riders, and skiers. Check out the wildflowers in the spring, and the vivid colors in the fall. Walk on the swinging suspension bridge high above the raging St. Louis River. Visit the historic cemetery and the gorge at Thomson Dam.
Nature of the Area
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.

The geological makeup of Jay Cooke State Park is one of slate, graywacke and red clay. Streams have exposed the bedrock in many places. Slate beds were formed from original deposits of mud which compacted into shale. Heat, pressure and movement converted the deeply buried shale into slate. Underground movement caused the slate and graywacke beds to fold and fracture. Later, masses of molten rock were forced through fractures in the beds and when they cooled, these intrusions formed dikes which can be seen in the river bed today.

Wildlife. 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 (none of which are poisonous) are found in the park.
History of the Area
When the 13 colonies were developing on the eastern seaboard, French fur trade was thriving in the Jay Cooke area because of the St. Louis River trade route. The Dakota Indians and the French traded for many years. As westward expansion increased, the Ojibwe drove the Dakota out to the plains. Shortly thereafter, disputes broke out between the French and the British over trapping rights. Eventually the fur trade slowed down and only a few small settlements remained. Many years later, the railroads reached northern Minnesota. The "iron horse" brought substantial numbers of immigrant farmers northward. Although much land surrounding the park was cleared, the rough terrain was never suitable for farming. 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 and added other sections over the years giving Jay Cooke State Park its present size of 8,818 acres.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the St. Louis River, known for its population of walleye, smallmouth bass and northern pike. The river also hosts catfish and sunfish species. For trout enthusiasts, Otter Creek is a designated trout stream with brook trout available.


Location
Jay Cooke State Park is located near Cloquet, Duluth and Superior

Picnicking
Jay Cooke State Park offers numerous picnic spots with tables, fire rings and grills. Some areas also have shelters available.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore over 50 miles of trails, though some are quite challenging. Be prepared for a workout.

The Munger Trail offers an easier ride and is paved throughout its entire length. It's perfect for families or beginners.

Mountain bikers should check out the Thomson trail system which features steep inclines and rocky terrain; caution advised here due to difficulty level.

Winter biking isn't recommended as most paths aren't maintained during snowy months making them hazardous to navigate safely on two wheels.

Remember always wear helmets while riding bikes in this park area, safety first!

Check local weather conditions before setting off - sudden changes could make certain routes unsafe quickly.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy over 200 species of birds, including warblers during migration season. The park's diverse habitats such as hardwood forests and river corridors attract a variety of birdlife. Birding trails are available for exploration year-round with the chance to spot owls in winter months.

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Area Campgrounds
Buffalo Valley Camping
2590 Guss Road
Duluth, MN
218-628-7019
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
From the town of Carlton go 3 miles east on State Highway 210

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Minnesota
52

Minnesota State Parks

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