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Jay Cooke State Park in Esko | Map and Routes

Sports Facility

4.9 (127 ratings)

Discover the natural beauty of Jay Cooke State Park in Esko, where 9044.9 acres of scenic landscapes await. With an extensive network of trails, this park is a haven for ...

Discover the natural beauty of Jay Cooke State Park in Esko, where 9044.9 acres of scenic landscapes await. With an extensive network of trails, this park is a haven for walkers and hikers of all levels. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Jay Cooke State Park offers a diverse range of routes to explore. From the 5.6-mile Jay Cooke State Park main trail to the tranquil River Trail and the rugged Ridge Trail, there are options to suit every preference and fitness level. The park's picturesque surroundings and well-maintained trails make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable walking or hiking experience. As you venture through Jay Cooke State Park, you'll encounter a variety of routes that showcase the park's natural wonders. From the 0.2-mile West Ridge Trail to the 4.6-mile Spruce Trail, each route offers a unique perspective on the park's diverse terrain. With trails like the Oak Trail, C.C.C. Trail, and Summer Trail, visitors can immerse themselves in the park's rich biodiversity while enjoying invigorating outdoor activity. Whether you're looking for a short, scenic walk or a longer, more challenging hike, Jay Cooke State Park provides an array of options to accommodate your preferred walking or hiking activity. The park's well-marked trails and breathtaking vistas create an unforgettable outdoor experience for walkers and hikers alike. For more information about the park's routes and trail details, consider downloading Pacer Pedometer. This user-friendly app offers comprehensive insights into the park's trails, including length, estimated time, and user reviews. With its seamless interface and valuable information, Pacer Pedometer can enhance your walking or hiking adventures at Jay Cooke State Park. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, the park's captivating landscapes and diverse trail network provide an enriching outdoor experience for all nature enthusiasts.

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Walking and Hiking in Jay Cooke State Park

Are you looking for a picturesque destination to indulge in walking and hiking activities? Look no further than Jay Cooke State Park in Esko, United States. With its breathtaking landscapes and a wide range of amenities, this park is a paradise for walkers and hikers alike. Whether you are an ...

Are you looking for a picturesque destination to indulge in walking and hiking activities? Look no further than Jay Cooke State Park in Esko, United States. With its breathtaking landscapes and a wide range of amenities, this park is a paradise for walkers and hikers alike. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a casual walker, Jay Cooke State Park has something to suit your needs. The park offers essential amenities such as multiple parking lots, picnic sites, and BBQ areas, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable experience for visitors. Moreover, the abundance of bike paths and stunning viewpoints make it an ideal location for outdoor activities. Additionally, the availability of shelters adds to the comfort and safety of visitors, making it an excellent choice for a day of walking and hiking in the midst of nature. Jay Cooke State Park in Esko is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a fulfilling walking and hiking experience.

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Other Info about Jay Cooke State Park

Hours8AM-10PM
Phone(218) 673-7000
Websitehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jay_Cooke_State_Park

Essential Amenities in Jay Cooke State Park

Picnic Site
BBQ
Parking lot

Jay Cooke State Park Sport Facilities

Bike path

Other Amenities in Jay Cooke State Park

Shelter

Best Walking Routes in Jay Cooke State Park

#1 - Silver Creek Trail
3
Length: 3.1 milesEst. Time: 53m

Silver Creek Trail is a 3.1 mile (7,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 209.9 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2 - Oak Trail
1
Length: 1.8 milesEst. Time: 30m

Oak Trail is a 1.8 mile (4,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 95.1 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3 - River Trail
1
Length: 0.4 milesEst. Time: 6m

River Trail is a 0.4 mile (1,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 13.1 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

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Reviews of Jay Cooke State Park

4.9/5
127 ratings
CindyAug 11, 2025
5

Beautiful park with waterfalls and rock formations. Have just started to explore the walking trails but great so far.

SarahJul 13, 2025
5
thanawathMay 15, 2025
5
See All Reviews (6)
See All Reviews (6)

Jay Cooke State Park Leaderboard

RankingCheck-ins
Alan
20
owlette
17
kschult1992
9
4savannahhaley15
7
5Chrissy
7
6jimallmann1961
4
7boblindholm
3
8tywilljase
3
9Kat
3
10Mark
2
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
Jay Cooke State Park
Chambers Grove Park
Northridge Park
Hilltop Park
Birchwood Park
Gary New Duluth Park
Scanlon Park
Sather Park
Washington Park

FAQs About Jay Cooke State Park

Where is the best place to walk in Jay Cooke State Park?

The best place to walk in Jay Cooke State Park is the Ridge Trail, which is a short and easy 0.2-mile trail that offers beautiful views. It is highly recommended by the Pacer community for a quick and scenic walk.

How many routes are in Jay Cooke State Park?

Jay Cooke State Park offers a total of 21 different routes for walking and hiking. These routes vary in length and difficulty, providing options for all levels of walkers and hikers.

Which is the longest route in Jay Cooke State Park?

The longest route in Jay Cooke State Park is the Spruce Trail, which spans 4.6 miles. This trail offers a longer, more challenging walk through the park's beautiful natural surroundings. It has been rated highly by the Pacer community for its scenic beauty and overall experience.

Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in Jay Cooke State Park?

Yes, Jay Cooke State Park provides essential amenities such as parking lots, picnic sites, and BBQ facilities for walkers and hikers.

How accessible is Jay Cooke State Park?

Jay Cooke State Park is accessible with various parking lots and bike paths, making it convenient for walkers and hikers to explore the park.

What kind of sports can I do in Jay Cooke State Park?

In Jay Cooke State Park, walkers and hikers can enjoy sports activities such as biking along the designated bike paths.

What is the best season to walk in Jay Cooke State Park?

The best season to walk in Jay Cooke State Park is typically summer and early fall, from June to September. During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are more accessible.

What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Jay Cooke State Park?

Visitors to Jay Cooke State Park should be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. Summers are generally mild to warm, while winters can be cold and snowy. It's important to dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.

What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Jay Cooke State Park?

Jay Cooke State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, beavers, and a diverse bird population. Visitors may also encounter smaller mammals, such as red squirrels and chipmunks, as well as a variety of reptiles and amphibians.

Last updated: Dec 1, 2025

Parks Near Jay Cooke State Park

Jay Cooke State Park
Chambers Grove Park
Northridge Park
Hilltop Park
Birchwood Park
Gary New Duluth Park
Scanlon Park
Sather Park
Washington Park

Latest Check-ins at Jay Cooke State Park

kschult1992Nov 11, 2025
Nov 11, 2025Running
boblindholmOct 30, 2025
Oct 30, 2025Cycling
JaredNSep 27, 2025
Sep 27, 2025Walking
boblindholmAug 13, 2025
Aug 13, 2025Cycling
CindyAug 11, 2025
Aug 11, 2025Walking
kschult1992Aug 4, 2025
Aug 4, 2025Running
EmilyAug 3, 2025
Aug 3, 2025Walking
MarkJul 30, 2025
Jul 30, 2025Hiking
SarahJul 13, 2025
Jul 13, 2025Cycling
boblindholmJul 9, 2025
Jul 9, 2025Cycling
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.

Total Check-ins at Jay Cooke State Park

RankingCheck-ins
Alan
20
owlette
17
kschult1992
9
4savannahhaley15
7
5Chrissy
7
6jimallmann1961
4
7boblindholm
3
8tywilljase
3
9Kat
3
10Mark
2
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Jay Cooke State Park
#1- Silver Creek Trail
3
Length: 3.1 milesEst. Time: 53m

Silver Creek Trail is a 3.1 mile (7,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 209.9 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2- Oak Trail
1
Length: 1.8 milesEst. Time: 30m

Oak Trail is a 1.8 mile (4,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 95.1 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3- River Trail
1
Length: 0.4 milesEst. Time: 6m

River Trail is a 0.4 mile (1,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 13.1 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#4- Lower Lake Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 4m

Lower Lake Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#5- West Ridge Trail
1
Length: 1.4 milesEst. Time: 24m

West Ridge Trail is a 1.4 mile (3,500-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 85.3 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#6- Spruce Trail
1
Length: 4.6 milesEst. Time: 1h39m

Spruce Trail is a 4.6 mile (11,000-step) route located near Wrenshall, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 305 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#7- Gill Greek Trail
1
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 14m

Gill Greek Trail is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 68.9 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#8- East Ridge Trail
1
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 14m

East Ridge Trail is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 72.2 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#9- High Trail
1
Length: 1.3 milesEst. Time: 22m

High Trail is a 1.3 mile (3,000-step) route located near Carlton, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 29.5 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#10- Ridge Trail
1
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 3m

Ridge Trail is a 0.2 mile (500-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#11- C.C.C. Trail
1
Length: 2.3 milesEst. Time: 39m

C.C.C. Trail is a 2.3 mile (5,500-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 29.5 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#12- Forbay Trail
1
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 15m

Forbay Trail is a 0.9 mile (2,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#13- Ash Ridge Campsite Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 4m

Ash Ridge Campsite Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#14- Upper Lake Trail
1
Length: 1.7 milesEst. Time: 28m

Upper Lake Trail is a 1.7 mile (4,000-step) route located near Wrenshall, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 160.7 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#15- Summer Trail
1
Length: 2.6 milesEst. Time: 45m

Summer Trail is a 2.6 mile (6,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 160.7 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#16- White Pine Trail
1
Length: 1.4 milesEst. Time: 23m

White Pine Trail is a 1.4 mile (3,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 49.2 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#17- Ogantz Trail
1
Length: 1.8 milesEst. Time: 31m

Ogantz Trail is a 1.8 mile (4,000-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 265.7 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#18- High Landing Campsite Trail
1
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 3m

High Landing Campsite Trail is a 0.2 mile (450-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 9.8 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#19- Grand Portage Trail
1
Length: 1.2 milesEst. Time: 20m

Grand Portage Trail is a 1.2 mile (2,500-step) route located near Esko, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 19.7 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#20- Carlton Trail
1
Length: 2.7 milesEst. Time: 45m

Carlton Trail is a 2.7 mile (6,000-step) route located near Carlton, Minnesota. This route has an elevation gain of about 127.9 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

Reviews of Jay Cooke State Park

CindyAug 11, 2025
5

Beautiful park with waterfalls and rock formations. Have just started to explore the walking trails but great so far.

SarahJul 13, 2025
5
thanawathMay 15, 2025
5
PacerPalDec 26, 2024
5
PacerPalSep 30, 2024
5
kennershill11Dec 26, 2024
4
4.9/5
127 ratings

Photos of Jay Cooke State Park

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