Basics
- Length:
- 9 miles (14 km)
- Time:
- Allow at least 20 minutes
- Fees:
- Driving the byway is free. Expect to pay an entrance fee to the Park ($4, or $20 annual) and camping fees (about $7-25, depending on development).
Description
Highway 210 from Carlton to Highway 23 is a beautiful 9-mile drive through Jay Cooke State Park, a geological haven for naturalists. The rugged land formations of the Park enhance the beauty of the hardwood forests. The water-eroded gorge, steep valleys, and massive rock formations are seen throughout the park. Yet, it is the St. Louis River rapids that are the showcases of this beautiful park, as they rush through a rocky gorge and over slabs of gray stone.
In some seasons, the waters of the St. Louis River thunder over slabs of ancient, exposed rock. At other times, they slow to a gentle trickle. Visitors enjoy the scenic splendor of Jay Cooke State Park during all seasons and its recreational richness, which includes whitewater rafting, hiking, and biking. The park is located three miles east of Carlton, Minnesota, on State Trunk Highway 210 in Carlton County.
Points of Interest
Points of Interest Along The Way
Jay Cooke State Park (MN)
Jay Cooke State Park is a favorite place for hikers and trailblazers with the many splendid views and activities, including a high suspension bridge over the St. Louis River.
Directions
Nearly the entire length of the byway passes through Jay Cooke State Park.
Oldenburg Point (MN)
This open shelter in Cooke State Park overlooks the St. Louis River.
Directions
Oldenburg Point is located at the top of the Ogantz trail. The trail head is located just off the byway at trail intersection #10. There is a short road leading to a picnic area that marks the way.
Swinging Bridge (MN)
Walk this gently swinging wooden bridge over the furious cola-colored rapids of the St. Louis River
Directions
The swinging bridge is located just south of the River Inn, across the highway from the Park's main campground.
