Jay Cooke State Park features scenic swinging bridge

One of the most scenic and rugged places to hike in Minnesota is Jay Cooke State Park in Carlton, MN. Located just off I-35 south of Duluth, this stunning park features a picturesque 200-foot swinging bridge over the St. Louis River, easy and challenging hiking trails, towering trees, wildflowers, a pioneer cemetery, year-round camping, and more. Make sure to explore Jay Cooke State Park as you make your way up to the North Shore – most scenic road trip in Minnesota. Got bridge phobia? Not to worry. The swinging suspension bridge at Jay Cooke State Park is pretty stable. It doesn’t really swing much.

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See my related Minnesota state park series.

• Take the Minnesota State Park Challenge – list of all the best MN state parks with reviews
• How to hike all 66 Minnesota state parks in a year
• Explore Minnesota State Parks on Free State Park Day
• Top Minnesota state parks with waterfalls – ranked!

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Top things to do at Jay Cooke State Park in Carleton, MN

Here are the top 10 things to do at Jay Cooke State Park in Carleton, Minnesota.

1. Cross the swinging suspension bridge overlooking the St. Louis River that runs through Jay Cooke State Park on its way to Lake Superior.
2. Take in the scenic views along St. Louis River that cascades over ancient bedrock.
3. Hike up to 50 miles of trails along the river and through the woods – including parts of the Superior Hiking Trail.
4. Go horseback riding on six miles of designated equestrian trails.
5. Camp year-round at Jay Cooke State Park – tent, RV, backpack, group, and camper cabins.
6. Fish for salmon or trout along the banks of the St. Louis River.
7. Cycle on an 8-mile paved bike trail (and check out the Thomson Dam) or on 13 miles of mountain biking trails.
8. Visit the historic and secluded pioneer cemetery dating back to the late 1800s..
9. Watch for wildlife including deer, black bears, timber wolves, coyotes, and nearly 200 species of birds and 16 species of reptiles and amphibians.
10. Enjoy winter activities like winter hiking, chasing frozen waterfalls, cross-country skiing, skate-skiing, snowshoeing (rentals available at Jay Cooke. A one-half mile snowmobile trail connects to the multi-use Willard Munger State Trail.

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Frequently asked questions about Jay Cooke State Park in Carleton, Minnesota

Where is Jay Cooke State Park located? What is the address for Jay Cooke State Park?

Jay Cooke State Park is located just south of Duluth right off I-35 on your way to the North Shore, Minnesota’s most scenic drive. The address for Jay Cooke State Park is 780 Highway 210, Carleton, MN 55718.

When is Jay Cooke State Park open?

Jay Cooke State Park is open year-round, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. The visitor center is typically open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Is Jay Cooke State Park free? How much is the admission fee at Jay Cooke State Park?

Admission to Jay Cooke only costs $7 per vehicle per day ($5 per motorcycle). That includes unlimited visits to all Minnesota state parks on the same day.

However, I highly recommend an annual pass, which gives you entrance to all Minnesota state parks throughout the year. See the Minnesota DNR website for more information. And it’s highly recommended to pay online ahead of time. Minnesota state parks are no longer accepting cash self-payment envelopes on site.

You can also visit other Minnesota state parks for free four days each year. See my related post for this year’s free state park days. Admission to every Minnesota state park is free for all Minnesota state tribal members throughout the year.

Does Jay Cooke State Park have a lake, river, or waterfall?

Yes. Lake Superior’s largest tributary, St. Louis River, runs through Jay Cooke State Park. At 192 miles in total length, this river is considered the largest freshwater estuary in the U.S. Jay Cooke State Park offers scenic water cascades, rapids, and small waterfalls as the river flows over ancient bedrock.

Additionally, Jay Cooke State Park features the small and secluded Lost Lake and Silver Creek.

Make sure you check for any seasonal updates at Jay Cooke State Park especially during the spring thaw as some of the hiking trails (and even the swinging bridge) can become flooded and dangerous. Additionally, wear waterproof hiking boots and bring extra socks as the trails can get muddy in the spring especially.

Can you fish at Jay Cooke State Park in Minnesota?

Yes. Many anglers typically fish for trout and salmon as well as walleye in the St. Louis River at Jay Cooke State Park.

Does Jay Cooke State Park have a swimming beach?

No. Jay Cooke State Park does not have a swimming beach.

Can you boat at Jay Cooke State Park? Does Jay Cooke State Park offer a boat ramp?

No. Jay Cooke State Park does not have a boat ramp. However, experienced paddlers can go whitewater rafting up the river between Floodwood and Cloquet, MN. You can also paddle on St. Louis River from nearby Fond du Lac Dam to Lake Superior on a national water trail

Does Jay Cooke State Park have a campground? Can you camp at Jay Cooke State Park?

Yes. Jay Cooke offers a variety of camping experiences year-round with 79 campsites and camper cabins. More campground features:

• 79 drive-in campsites in mostly wooded settings
• 21 electric sites with 10 available in the winter
• 15-20 sites plowed for winter camping (may want to bring a shovel)
• RV parking length: up to 60 feet (however, smaller RVs recommended as the campsite has lots of trees and tight turns)
• 3 wheelchair-accessible sites (2 are electric)
• 4 backpack campsites located 2 to 3.3 miles from the swinging bridge/visitor center
• 2 tents-only cart-in group camps (each accommodates up to 25 people)
• 5 year-round camper cabins with screened porches, heat, and electricity (sleeps 5 to 6 in each cabin; no pets)
• 2 primitive group campsites (accommodate up to 35 people)

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See my related post: SUV camping 101: Guide for beginners with FAQs

How big is Jay Cooke State Park in Minnesota?

Jay Cooke State Park in Minnesota covers nearly 9,000 acres.

Is Jay Cooke State Park buggy? Mosquitos? Ticks?

I don’t recall it being particularly buggy at Jay Cooke State Park. However, I always apply picaridin and Aunt Fanny’s DEET-free mosquito wipes when hiking in Minnesota state parks.

How long and how difficult are the hiking trails at Jay Cooke State Park?

Jay Cooke State Parks offers 50 miles of hiking trails with some of the more popular trails ranging from a 1.8 mile-loop to a 5-mile loop. You can connect to other trails within Jay Cooke State Park for a longer hike.

We hiked the rugged 5-mile Carlton Trail at Jay Cooke State Park (which seemed longer). Expect steep, rocky, and uneven terrain (check out the tree roots we came across) before coming to parts of the paved Willard Munger State Trail. On our return trip, we made our way through the pioneer cemetery.  

The 3.5-mile Silver Creek Trail loop (aka Hiking Club Trail) takes you across the swinging bridge through the woods, and across bare rock, hills, and grassy areas with views of the St. Louis River and Silver Creek. Parts of this trail overlap with the iconic Superior Hiking Trail.

For an easy stroll, hike the flat 1.8-mile CCC Trail for some scenic views of the St. Louis River, water rapids, and swinging bridge.

Are hiking poles needed on the trails at Jay Cooke State Park?

I did not use my hiking poles at Jay Cooke State Park. However, they could come in handy as the hiking trail terrain is hilly, steep, and uneven with lots of rocks and tree roots in places. In the winter, you may want to wear crampons or metal spikes on your hiking boots as the stairs and trails can get pretty icy. And in the spring, make sure your hiking boots or shoes are waterproof as the trails get wet and muddy.

Also, I recommend bringing lots of water especially in the summer. Here’s my favorite water bottle for hiking.

Is the swinging bridge at Jay Cooke State Park accessible? How far is Jay Cooke’s swinging bridge from the parking lot and visitor center?

Yes. The swinging bridge at Jay Cooke State Park is accessible and is just a short distance from the parking lot and visitor center. This historic bridge was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

How long is the swinging suspension bridge at Jay Cooke State Park?

The swinging suspension bridge at Jay Cooke State Park is 200 feet long with 126 feet spanning across the dramatic St. Louis River.

Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing trails at Jay Cooke State Park?

Yes. You can snowshoe on the nine miles of designated and packed snowshoe trails and throughout Jay Cooke State Park in the winter. The trails range from easy to difficult. Just stay off the groomed cross-country skiing trails. Snowshoes are available to rent from the visitor center when open.

Additionally, you can cross-country ski on 20 to 32 miles of groomed trails at Jay Cooke State Park. Easiest ski trails are near the visitor center while you encounter the more challenging trails in the woods. You can also do some winter hiking to see the frozen waterfall cascades. See my full review on the most scenic frozen waterfalls in Minnesota.

Can you snowmobile at Jay Cooke State Park? Which state parks offer snowmobile trails?

Yes. However, it’s a short half-mile connector snowmobile trail that leads to the multi-use Williard Munger State Trail.

What are the best views at Jay Cooke State Park?

Jay Cooke State Park offers several scenic views. The most popular scenic view at Jay Cooke State Park is from the swinging suspension bridge overlooking the cascading St. Louis River.

For a pretty view of the bridge, hike along the CCC Trail near the river. Here you’ll also discover more pretty and intimate water rapids and cascading water.

I’m a huge fan of history and cemeteries so highly recommend walking respectfully through the peaceful 19^th-century pioneer cemetery at Jay Cooke State Park. See related post: Most intriguing cemeteries in the world

You’ll find a number of designated overlooks throughout Jay Cooke State Park on the hiking trails such as Oldenburg Point. This area provides stunning views of the St. Louis River Valley as well as historic Civilian Conservation Corps structures. The Oldenburg Point Picnic Shelter, built in 1934, accommodates up to 75 people and is available to rent.

See related post: Top 12 breathtaking views in Minnesota.

Are there bike trails at Jay Cooke State Park?

Yes. Jay Cooke State Park offers a paved eight-mile bike trail and 13 miles of mountain bike trails. The connection to the paved Willard Munger State Trail begins at the visitor center where you can bike to Duluth or Hinckley.

Does Jay Cooke State Park feature equestrian trails?

Yes. Jay Cooke State Park features six miles of horseback trails.

Can you rock climb at Jay Cooke State Park? Which Minnesota state parks offer rock climbing? Where can I rock climb on the North Shore in Minnesota?

No. Jay Cooke State Park does not offer rock climbing.

Here is a list of the state parks in Minnesota where you can rock climb:

• Blue Mounds State Park (southwest Minnesota)
• Banning State Park (46 miles south of Jay Cooke State Park and on the way to the North Shore from the Twin Cities)
• Interstate State Park (aka Taylors Falls just north of the Twin Cities)
• Temperance River State Park (North Shore)
• Tettegouche State Park (Shovel Point and Palisade Head on the North Shore)

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Does Jay Cooke State Park have a visitor center? Modern restrooms?

Yes. Jay Cooke State Park’s River Inn Interpretative Center/visitor center and park office is open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. year-round. Here you’ll find modern restrooms, vending machines, interpretative exhibits, a gift shop, and a nature store. Visitors can rent snowshoes in the winter, firewood year-round, and ice seasonally.

You’ll also find modern restrooms in the campground areas during peak season (late May to late October) as well as the campground (with showers). Vault toilets are available year-round throughout the park.

Is Jay Cooke State Park dog-friendly?

Yes. Leashed dogs and pets are welcome on Jay Cooke State Park hiking trails. All Minnesota state parks welcome dogs except inside buildings and cabins (service dogs, of course, are allowed). Leashes must be six feet or less.

Are there bears and moose at Jay Cooke State Park? Other wildlife?

I haven’t heard of any black bear or moose sightings at Jay Cooke State Park. But it’s always possible. Watch for other wildlife such as timber wolves, white-tailed deer, coyotes, and more.

Is firewood available at Jay Cooke State Park?

Yes. Firewood is available for sale at Jay Cooke State Park when the visitor office is open or via the Yodel app. You can also purchase approved firewood at nearby stores or gas stations that sell certified wood.

To protect Minnesota trees, you can only burn certified wood on MN DNR land. Collection is not allowed in state parks and you may not bring firewood from home. This helps prevent spreading harmful insects and diseases.

How far is Jay Cooke State Park from the Twin Cities – Minneapolis and St. Paul (MSP) airport?

Jay Cooke State Park is located 142 miles from the Minneapolis – St. Paul (MSP) International Airport.

What’s near Jay Cooke State Park? Top things to do near Jay Cooke State Park?

Here are the top things to do near Jay Cooke State Park in Minnesota.

• Jay Cooke State Park is worth the side trip as you make your way to Duluth and Minnesota’s state park. Here’s a list of all my favorite stops on Minnesota’s scenic North Shore.
• Duluth, Minnesota is the gateway to the North Shore. One of the most popular places to visit is Canal Park where you’ll find restaurants, breweries, shops, and the harbor. Time it right and you may see one of the big ships come in or leave. And check out Duluth’s iconic lift bridge. Check out both in the video clip above.
• Visit the historic Glensheen Mansion in Duluth – Minnesota’s most popular historic home. They hosted me twice and I highly recommend visiting in any season (opinions are always my own).
• Check out more of the best hiking trails in and near Duluth, Minnesota.
• Explore the 50+ acres of Hemlock Ravine Scientific and Natural Area located next to Jay Cooke State Park.
• Paddle or go whitewater rafting on the St. Louis River Water Trail.
• Plan to hike all 66 Minnesota state parks? Then I also recommend exploring Moose Lake State Park (27 miles south of Jay Cooke State Park).

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When was Jay Cooke State Park in Minnesota established?

Jay Cooke State Park was officially established in 1915.

How did Jay Cooke State Park get its name?

Jay Cooke State Park’s namesake was a banker who funded and donated a railroad (and land) that ran from Carlton, Minnesota to Tacoma, Washington in the mid-to-late 1800s. He also built a power plant, which became the St. Louis River Power Company. The company originally donated more than 2,300 acres of land to establish Jay Cooke State Park according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.

Does Jay Cooke State Park host deer hunts? Is Jay Cooke State Park closed during deer season?

Yes. Jay Cooke State Park hosts a deer hunt typically in early December each year and limits some areas of the park to the public.

For a complete list of which Minnesota state parks are closed or limited to non-hunters during deer season, see this related post: Hiker safety: MN state parks that host deer hunts.

Hiking safety tip during deer season: Wear bright orange when hiking during deer season. I typically avoid hiking at all even if the state park is partially open to non-hunters.

A list of the best Minnesota state parks

All Minnesota state parks are the best in my opinion. You can read reviews of each one to create your own list of top-ranked Minnesota state parks: Take the Minnesota state park challenge

• Afton State Park | Hastings, MN (26 miles)
• Banning State Park | Sandstone, MN (97 miles)
• Bear Head Lake State Park | Ely, MN (240 miles)
• Beaver Creek Valley State Park | Caledonia, MN (148 miles)
• Big Stone Lake State Park | Ortonville, MN (186 miles)
• Blue Mounds State Park | Luverne, MN (208 miles)
• Buffalo River State Park | Glyndon, MN (240 miles)
• Camden State Park | Lynd, MN (161 miles)
• Carley State Park | Plainview, MN (88 miles)
• Cascade River State Park | Lutsen, MN (257 miles)
• Charles A. Lindbergh State Park | Little Falls, MN (112 miles)
• Crow Wing State Park | Brainerd, MN (134 miles)
• Father Hennepin State Park | Isle, MN (113 miles)
• Flandrau State Park | New Ulm, MN (93 miles)
• Forestville / Mystery Cave State Park | Preston, MN (115 miles)
• Fort Ridgely State Park | Fairfax, MN (99 miles)
• Fort Snelling State Park | Bloomington / St. Paul, MN (2 miles)
• Franz Jevne State Park | Birchdale, MN (336 miles)
• Frontenac State Park | Frontenac, MN (62 miles)
• George H. Crosby Manitou State Park | Finland, MN (231 miles)
• Glacial Lakes State Park | Starbuck, MN (156 miles)
• Glendalough State Park | Battle Lake, MN (194 miles)
• Gooseberry Falls State Park | Two Harbors, MN (197 miles)
• Grand Portage State Park | Grand Portage, MN (308 miles)
• Great River Bluffs State Park | Winona, MN (136 miles)
• Hayes Lake State Park | Roseau, MN (343 miles)
• Hill Annex Mine State Park | Calumet, MN (197 miles)
• Interstate State Park / Taylors Falls State Park | Taylors Falls, MN (56 miles)
• Itasca State Park | Park Rapids, MN (219 miles)
• Jay Cooke State Park | Carlton, MN (146 miles)
• John A. Latsch State Park | Winona, MN (99 miles)
• Judge C.R. Magney State Park | Grand Marais, MN (282 miles)
• Kilen Woods State Park | Lakefield, MN (153 miles)
• Lac qui Parle State Park | Watson, MN (141 miles)
• Lake Bemidji State Park | Bemidji, MN (230 miles)
• Lake Bronson State Park | Karlstad, MN (409 miles)
• Lake Carlos State Park | Alexandria, MN (152 miles)
• Lake Louise State Park | Le Roy, MN (113 miles)
• Lake Maria State Park | Monticello, MN (60 miles)
• Lake Shetek State Park | Currie, MN (168 miles)
• Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park | Soudan, MN (229 miles)
• McCarthy Beach State Park | Side Lake, MN (227 miles)
• Maplewood State Park | Pelican Rapids, MN (217 miles)
• Mille Lacs Kathio State Park | Onamia, MN (108 miles)
• Minneopa State Park | Mankato, MN (82 miles)
• Monson Lake State Park | Sunburg, MN (141 miles)
• Moose Lake State Park | Moose Lake, MN (116 miles)
• Myre-Big Island State Park | Albert Lea, MN (93 miles)
• Nerstrand Big Woods State Park | Nerstrand, MN (52 miles)
• Old Mill State Park | Argyle, MN (350 miles)
• Rice Lake State Park | Owatonna, MN (70 miles)
• St. Croix State Park | Hinckley, MN (105 miles)
• Sakatah Lake State Park | Waterville, MN (60 miles)
• Savanna Portage State Park | Northeast Aitkin, MN (149 miles)
• Scenic State Park | Bigfork, MN (232 miles)
• Schoolcraft State Park | Deer River, MN (198 miles)
• Sibley State Park | New London, MN (128 miles)
• Split Rock Creek State Park | Jasper, MN (202 miles)
• Split Rock Lighthouse State Park | Two Harbors, MN (204 miles)
• Temperance River State Park | Schroeder, MN (239 miles)
• Tettegouche State Park | Silver Bay, MN (217 miles)
• Upper Sioux Agency State Park | Granite Falls, MN (122 miles) – Note: Minnesota returned this park’s land to the Native Americans in February 2024. It is no longer open to the public.
• Whitewater State Park | Altura, MN (99 miles)
• Wild River State Park | Center City, MN (58 miles)
• William O’Brien State Park | Scandia / Marine on the St. Croix, MN (43 miles)
• Zippel Bay State Park | Williams, MN (345 miles)

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Pin it for later: A local’s guide to Jay Cooke State Park in Minnesota

Please share and pin this guide for when you visit Jay Cooke State Park in MN – home of the iconic swinging bridge and one of the best Minnesota state parks for scenic hikes.

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