May 2021
Why are the Rocks Tilted?
The tilted rocks on the St. Louis River have caused people to wonder and marvel at them for centuries. Join this naturalist program geology walk near the river to discover what powerful forces from the past shaped the tilted rocks. The event involves a 1/4-mile walk on a level, grassy surface. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be…
Find out more »Jun 2021
Critter Walk
Join a naturalist on a short walk that is meant for kids and families. Scavenger hunt for signs of critters and other fun things on this half-mile, grassy-trail adventure. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a year. All programs require registration due to…
Find out more »Lady’s-slipper Walk
The purpose of this 2-mile moderate walk is to discover the many beautiful yellow lady's-slippers and other wildflowers in Jay Cooke State Park. The majority of the walk is flat. There are rocks and hills to climb in the beginning to access the trail, but the group will take it slow. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be…
Find out more »Bird Walk
A bird walk for beginners and experts alike. Listen and look for warblers, sparrows and woodpeckers. Sanitized binoculars are available. The trail is paved. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a year. All programs require registration due to limited space. Call 218-673-7005 or…
Find out more »Meet the Trees
Get to know some of Minnesota's common tree species on this family-friendly scavenger hunt activity, limited to 15 people. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a year. All programs require registration due to limited space. Call 218-673-7006 or email carly.hawkinson @ state.mn.us with…
Find out more »Biking the Munger Trail
Participants in the "Tour de Jay Cooke State Park" will learn about the history of the park while cycling on the scenic Willard Munger State Trail. The event is limited to 10 people. Participants must bring their own bicycles and helmets. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single…
Find out more »One event on Jul 3, 2021 at 4:00 pm
One event on Jul 10, 2021 at 1:30 pm
One event on Aug 8, 2021 at 9:30 am
Bugs and Blooms: Pollinator Walk
One event on Jul 3, 2021 at 4:00 pm
One event on Jul 10, 2021 at 1:30 pm
One event on Aug 8, 2021 at 9:30 am
Discover the pollinators that make Jay Cooke State Park's beautiful blooms possible during this half-mile walk around the visitor center grounds. The group meets at the amphitheater behind the park office. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a year. All programs require registration…
Find out more »Jul 2021
One event on Jul 22, 2021 at 9:00 am
One event on Aug 6, 2021 at 9:00 am
One event on Sep 3, 2021 at 9:00 am
A Mindful Bicycle Ride
One event on Jul 22, 2021 at 9:00 am
One event on Aug 6, 2021 at 9:00 am
One event on Sep 3, 2021 at 9:00 am
This mindfulness-based nature observation bike ride pauses at several locations along the scenic Willard Munger State Trail to focus on the surroundings and learn about the flora and fauna. It's a round-trip ride of about 6 miles. Participants should bring their own bikes and helmets. There is limited capacity and pre-registration is required. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits…
Find out more »Ferns of the Forest Walk
The forests of Jay Cooke State Park are filled with 15 different species of ferns, from delicate oak ferns to 5-foot-tall ostrich ferns. Take a walk with a naturalist to learn why these ancient plants are an important part of the forest. The group will meet at the amphitheater behind the park office. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits…
Find out more »A Mindful Phenology Walk
This naturalist-guided mindfulness walk encourages the use of human senses to observe what beauties nature is revealing. There is limited capacity and pre-registration is required. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a year. All programs require registration due to limited space. Call 218-673-7006…
Find out more »Aug 2021
Bee Still Story Walk
This naturalist-led walk pauses at several locations to read a storybook and do mindfulness activities. There is limited capacity and pre-registration is required. The sign-up deadline is 10:30 a.m. on the day of the event. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a year.…
Find out more »Lil’ Peeps: Hoot Owl
Meet Hoot Owl, a master of disguise, during this children's program designed for preschoolers. The group will meet at the amphitheater behind the park office, read a book, learn about owls and engage in owl activities. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a…
Find out more »Bee Calm Story Walk
How does a bee be calm? Slow down the buzzing and find out on this naturalist-led story walk. The group will walk down a nature trail, pause at locations along the way to listen to a storybook, and learn yoga stretches. There is limited capacity and pre-registration is required. Sign-up deadline is 10:30 a.m. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park.…
Find out more »Sep 2021
Bee Still Story Walk
On this naturalist-led story walk, participants will walk a peaceful trail, pause at several locations to read a storybook, and do some mindfulness activities. There is limited capacity and pre-registration is required. Sign-up deadline is 5 p.m. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for…
Find out more »May 2022
Spring Wildflower Walk
The purpose of this 2-mile moderate walk is to discover the many beautiful flowers of Jay Cooke State Park and how they survive the varied weather of spring. The majority of the walk is flat. There are rocks and hills to climb in the beginning to access the trail, but the group will take it slow. Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit…
Find out more »Guided Hike: Spring Ephemerals at Jay Cooke
The Arrowhead Native Plant Explorers' first hike of their Guided Hike Series. This hike will feature a lesser-known entry point to Jay Cooke State Park which abounds with spring ephemerals such as bloodroot, spring beauty, trout lilies and dutchman’s breeches. The event will take place on the west side of Jay Cooke State Park, at the end of Leimer Road (West entry). Parking is available in a small, unpaved lot and along the Leimer Road. General directions: head South from…
Find out more »Birdsong Walk
Participants in this naturalist event will walk along a 1.5-mile paved trail to discover what's making chirps and twitters. The walk is designed for beginning birders. Binoculars are provided. The group will meet at the visitor center parking lot. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or…
Find out more »Lady’s-slipper Walk
This 2-mile, moderate hike across the St. Louis River leads to a scenic hillside of yellow lady’s-slipper flowers. Along the way, participants will discover other spring flowers in bloom. The group meets at the River Inn Interpretive Center. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35…
Find out more »Junior Naturalists: River Animals
This children’s program covers the adaptations of beavers, otters, insects and other river critters. Participants take home a fish printing craft made during the program. Meet behind the River Inn Interpretive Center. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a year. There are reduced…
Find out more »Campfire Program: Black Bears of Minnesota
Although people rarely see them at the park, black bears are one of the most asked about animals. This campfire program invites participants to discover the world of the Minnesota black bear and how to make outdoor adventures more "bearable." Participants meet at the amphitheater behind the park office. There is bench seating. Attendees can bring a blanket or camp chair for comfort or social distancing. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State…
Find out more »One event on Jun 4, 2022 at 10:30 am
One event on Jun 10, 2022 at 10:30 am
One event on Jun 12, 2022 at 1:00 pm
Why are the Rocks Tilted?
One event on Jun 4, 2022 at 10:30 am
One event on Jun 10, 2022 at 10:30 am
One event on Jun 12, 2022 at 1:00 pm
The tilted rocks on the St. Louis River have caused people to wonder and marvel at them for centuries. Join this naturalist program geology walk near the river to discover what powerful forces from the past shaped the tilted rocks. The event involves a 1/4-mile walk on a level, grassy surface. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be…
Find out more »Thomson Cemetery Tour
Learn about the history of the people buried at Thomson Pioneer Cemetery on the northwest edge of Jay Cooke State Park on Highway 210 near Carlton. The group will meet at the cemetery parking lot. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a year.…
Find out more »Campfire Program: Owls of Minnesota
Discover silent hunters of the night and learn how nature built a better mousetrap during this naturalist program. Participants are encouraged to bring a blanket or camp chair for comfort or social distancing. Bench seating is available. Meet at the amphitheater behind the park office. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is…
Find out more »Jun 2022
Campfire Program: Minnesota Timber Wolves
Learn about the daily live of wolves in Minnesota and how they work together as a pack for survival. No registration required. Bench seating. Bring a blanket or camp chair for comfort or social distancing. Meet in amphitheater behind park office. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single…
Find out more »Junior Naturalists: Monarchs are Art
The wonders of the monarch’s life are a natural work of art. Learn about the life cycle, migration and special roles of the monarch, and take home a creative caterpillar made during the program. The group will meet behind the River Inn Interpretive Center. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7…
Find out more »Discovery Table: Geology Rocks!
Stop in front of the River Inn Interpretive Center at Jay Cooke State Park between 1 and 3 p.m. to hear ongoing mini-talks about the rocks of the park. Discover the many stories left behind in stone that trace the natural and historical events that happened there. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The…
Find out more »Aug 2022
Hikin’ for Lichen
This easy one-mile walk explores lichens of the north woods. Learn what a lichen is, its expert survival capabilities, and the many uses it has had in present and past cultures. No prior knowledge is necessary. The group will meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost…
Find out more »Discovery Table: Nature Feature
Stop by the River Inn Interpretive Center at Jay Cooke State Park between noon and 2 p.m. to hear ongoing mini-talks about animals and plants. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a year. There are reduced price options for disabled veterans, Minnesota Tribal…
Find out more »Campfire Building
Learn techniques to build the perfect campfire. Test your fire-building skills afterward in a campfire skills challenge. The group will meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a vehicle in the park. Permits can be purchased upon arrival. The cost is $7 for a single day or $35 for a year. There are reduced price options for disabled veterans,…
Find out more »Discovery Table: Friendly Foraging
Stop by the River Inn Interpretive Center at Jay Cooke State Park between noon and 2 p.m. to discover the wild edibles of the north woods. Berries, mushrooms and wild rice are a few of the many native foods that people harvest and eat in Minnesota. Stop by anytime to discover the wild edibles of the north woods. All naturalist programs at Jay Cooke State Park are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to park a…
Find out more »Dec 2022
Jay Cooke State Park Closed for Special Deer Hunt
Jay Cooke State Park will be closed Dec. 3-7 to all visitors outside of the campground, office area, River Inn area and the Munger Trail during a special muzzleloader hunt to prevent overpopulation of deer and protect resources. The swinging bridge will remain accessible to visitors but they should not access any areas south of the bridge. All hiking trails will be closed. Visitors are advised to wear blaze orange or brightly colored clothing if they will be in the…
Find out more »Feb 2023
Gratitude in Nature Snowshoe Walk
This winter snowshoe walk will focus on gratitude in nature using mindfulness meditation technics while shuffling down the trails. Child and adult snowshoes are available and no experience is needed. There is limited capacity and pre-registration is required — more details to come once you pre-register. Sign-up deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10. To pre-register, email [email protected] or call 218-673-7006.
Find out more »Nature’s Patterns Snowshoe Walk
Join the park naturalist on snowshoes to discover the park in winter. The focus of this event is to take in some inspiration and solitude with a winter walk in the woods while looking for patterns in nature. Child and adult snowshoes are available and no experience is needed. There is limited capacity and pre-registration is required — more details to come once you pre-register. Sign-up deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 24. To pre-register, email [email protected] or call…
Find out more »Mar 2023
Winter Encounters Snowshoe Walk
Join the park naturalists for some how-to snowshoe basics then head out on the trail to see what awaits in the woods and along the river. Child and adult snowshoes are available to borrow and no experience is needed. This program is open to everyone, however, it works best for ages 7 and up. There is limited capacity and pre-registration is required. More details available during registration. Signup deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday, Mar. 3. To register email carly.hawkinson…
Find out more »Apr 2023
Jay Cooke State Park Community Volunteer Clean-up Day
Jay Cooke State Park is holding a volunteer community event. Winter storms which brought down thousands of trees and branches at the park have made a mess of the visitor center picnic grounds. Visitors and upcoming spring field trips by schools use this busy area. Volunteers will pick up branches and clear paths and tables and open up areas for our program activities. Drop in anytime between 10 am – 3 pm to assist in branch pick-up and raking. Please…
Find out more »May 2023
Spring Ephemerals Walk
The Arrowhead Native Plant Explorers present their second annual plant walk. Expect to observe spring ephemeral plant species such as bloodroot, spring beauty, trout lilies and dutchman’s breeches. No prior plant-ID experience is necessary. The event will take place on the west side of Jay Cooke State Park, at the end of Leimer Road. Parking is available in a small, unpaved lot and along Leimer Road. General directions: head south from Carlton approximately 1.3 miles and turn left on Leimer…
Find out more »Dec 2023
Wild About Birdwatching — Pinecone Feeders
Learn what birds are most likely to visit your feeders and which foods they prefer while making your own pinecone feeder. This program is appropriate for kids and adults. Please sign up by Dec.27 so there will be enough birdfeeder craft supplies. The event will take place in The River Inn Visitor Center at Jay Cooke State Park.
Find out more »Wild About Birdwatching — Walk or Snowshoe Trip
Take an adventure looking for birds spending their winter in Duluth. Depending on snow depths, either walk or snowshoe through Jay Cooke State Park in search of the birds who choose to stick around during the cold season. Binoculars and snowshoes will be available to anyone who needs them. Dress to be outdoors the entire time — winter boots, layers of winter clothing, hats and mittens are recommended. Plan to meet in The River Inn Visitor Center at the park.
Find out more »End of the Year Snowshoe Walk
Celebrate the end of the year during this first day snowshoe walk. Discover what resolutions forest animals are making for the new year during this one-mile hike through Jay Cooke State Park. Wear clothes that will keep you warm and dry — winter boots, layers of clothes that you can unzip if you are getting too warm, hat, mittens and a scarf. Snowshoeing can make you thirsty, even in winter so a water bottle may also be useful. Child and…
Find out more »Jan 2024
Junior Rangers — Snow Tracker Program
Learn all about how to track and identify animals this winter during this kid-friendly program. This indoor program will focus on key features to look for and provide resources to use on your own and even make and take a plaster animal track. Please sign up ahead of time by January 11th so there is enough tracking craft supplies.
Find out more »Junior Rangers – Frosty Adventures
Children of all ages can explore the magical world of snow. Discover the secrets of winter from the science of snowflakes to the playful antics of winter animals and make a snowflake craft to bring home. Meet at The River Inn Visitor Center. Although programs are free, a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to enter the park which can be purchased upon arrival. If you need an accommodation, please contact Kris at [email protected] or 218-673-7005.
Find out more »Feb 2024
Lil’ Park PEEPS – Chasing Snowflakes
Bring your “Lil’ PEEPS” to this preschool environmental education program designed for ages 2 to 5. This month we will explore snow through engaging stories, songs, activities and outdoor exploration. Bring appropriate clothing and meet up at the River Inn Interpretive Center. Limited class-size so please sign-up by Wednesday, Jan. 31.
Find out more »Winter Encounters Hike
This is a one-mile walk on a fairly easy trail. There will be a short hill or two. This activity is appropriate for a wide range of ages and abilities. Wear clothes that will keep you warm and dry. Ice cleats and/or a hiking stick may be helpful to walk on the trails. Water bottles, hats, mittens, neck gaiters and winter boots are recommended. Meet at the River Inn Visitor Center.
Find out more »Junior Rangers – Whoo Knew! Owl Explorers
Dive into the nighttime world of owls and unravel the secrets of their extraordinary hunting abilities during this kid’s program. What is their role in the forest food web? Participants get a hands-on look while dissecting owl pellets. Limited number of owl pellets, so sign-up ahead of time to make sure you get a spot. To register contact Kristine Hiller at 218-673-7005 or by email at kris.hiller @ state.mn.us.
Find out more »One event on Feb 3, 2024 at 1:00 pm
One event on Jan 6, 2024 at 1:00 pm
One event on Jan 20, 2024 at 1:00 pm
Winter Encounters Snowshoe Walk
One event on Feb 3, 2024 at 1:00 pm
One event on Jan 6, 2024 at 1:00 pm
One event on Jan 20, 2024 at 1:00 pm
Learn the basics of snowshoeing then head out on the trail to see what awaits in the woods and along the river. Child and adult snowshoes are available and no experience is needed. There is limited capacity and pre-registration is required — more details to come once you pre-register. To pre-register, email [email protected] or call 218-673-7006.
Find out more »Junior Rangers — Rock Investigations
Earthquakes, floods, volcanoes and ice; the park has been shaped by many natural events through time which has left behind interesting rocks to discover. Kids will become junior geologists as they explore how rocks are formed and how scientists test rocks to identify them. Meet at the River Inn Visitor Center.
Find out more »