The best time to get out and explore Jay Cooke State Park is the winter. No mosquitoes, no ticks or any other bugs, endless adventure and possibly a steaming cup of hot cocoa at the end of the adventure. If that’s not enough to convince you then here are 5 more reasons to get out and explore Jay Cooke State Park this winter.
Winter is the Best at Jay Cooke State Park
1. Snow Covered Jay Cooke State Park
If you ask me, everything is better with snow on it. A simple, clean, white coat on everything makes for a gorgeous scene. Plus you can cross country ski, snowshoe and even snowmobile (in designated areas)- three amazing pastimes you can only do with snow.
2. Sunrise
The bad thing about winter is that there aren’t many daylight hours- the great thing about that is that it means it’s easy to plan and be there when the sun rises and falls. Nothing beats watching the sun rise from somewhere that is already incredibly beautiful.
3. Vastness
The swinging bridge at Jay Cooke State Park is only the beginning of this nearly 9,000 acre park. There are 50 miles of hiking trails to explore- so grab your snow shoes, bundle up and see nature up close and personal and at its finest.
4. No People
https://www.instagram.com/p/BOYePK2D-KE/?taken-by=gretcholi
With over 300,000 annual visitors to the park it can be hard to “get it to yourself” so winter is the best time to explore its nooks and crannies- just you and the wildlife.
5. Camper Cabins
It’s below freezing outside but you’re toasty warm in your heated camper cabin. When you wake up a fresh coat of snow blankets the entire world, quieting everything- including your thoughts. Build a fire and brew a cup of coffee over it to truly get a sense of heaven.
Learn more about my goal to visit all of Minnesota’s State Parks this year.
Follow me on Instagram @Gretcholi or check out the hashtag: #PicklesTravelMNStateParks
Greta-did you make your goal of a year?? I’ve been following you since my family started our year long adventure on Labor Day 2016 in Jay Cooke. We are really enjoying our visits & experiences all over the state. Thanks for posting your visits-it’s great info to help plan our own!
Hi Heather- Thank you so much for your questions! I need to get more information on line from our various visits. I didn’t quite make the goal- There are 3 more I need to see (Having a baby in the middle of the year made it tough!) but hopefully will get to them this year!
I need to do a winter camper cabin one of these years! You forgot to mention no mosquitoes.
I love sunrises and no people. One of my favorite times to camp in during the week after Labor Day. Fewer people and later sunrises!
I can’t believe I forgot to mention no mosquitos- that truly is the best part hands down!! And I couldn’t agree more on the less people (and sunrises part!)