Jay Cooke State Park
River View Trail
Trail Overview
Region
North Shore
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Distance
3.4 miles (loop)
Estimated Hike Duration
1.5 to 2 hours
Elevation Gain
Around 200 ft (rolling bluffs and riverside terrain)
Best Season To Visit
Late spring through fall
River Views, History, and Geology
Photo above of Jay Cooke State Park - River View Trail is courtesy of Wisconsin Denizen via Wikimedia Commons (CC Attribution 2.0 Generic).
This scenic loop follows the rugged St. Louis River gorge, offering panoramic views of rushing rapids, exposed bedrock, and the park’s famous swinging bridge.
Expect rolling terrain, mixed hardwood forest, and multiple overlooks where the river twists through ancient volcanic formations.
Ideal for photography, picnics, and learning about Minnesota’s glacial geology, this hike combines beauty with history.
Badge for this hike:
Trailhead location
