How to get there: From the town of Carlton go 3 miles east on State Hwy 210.

Jay Cooke Park is absolutely one of my favorite places in northern Minnesota! When I went to college in Superior I took my family and friends that would visit me here to get away for the day. It was always fun and never a disappointment! One of my favorite times to go is during the fall (around the end of September or the beginning of October). The colors of the trees along the St. Louis river are so beautiful. Another great time of year to visit is during the spring to see all the wildflowers and walk across the swinging bridge.

The park's trails meet up with the Willard Munger State Trail at the north end of the park. There are 50 miles of hiking trails, 8 miles of paved biking trails, 13 miles of mountain biking trails, and 6 miles of equestrian trails within the park. There are also a number of trails for winter sports like cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing (you can rent snowshoes at the park).

For camping, there are cabins and over 80 sites, 4 specifically for backpackers, 3 walk-in, and 21 electric. The sites are very nice and spread out, most of them being wooded with a picnic table, a fire ring, and some type of sanitation facility. And for those of you strong enough for Northwoods winter camping- 12 sites are available over the winter season.

*Tip: Ask about using the park's birding or animal packs while you hike the trails.
                                

When my daughter was going to school in the north country she came upon this park.  If you have an afternoon and want to do some exploring this is a fun place for a picnic.  It is well kept, the park has been landscaped with some shade loving plants and is an enjoyable place to visit.