Trail cut through the rock – Willard Munger State Trail loop from Jay Cooke State Park
Trail cut through the rock – Willard Munger State Trail loop from Jay Cooke State Park
4.5
(5534)
9,515
riders
Trail cut through the rock – Willard Munger State Trail loop from Jay Cooke State Park
01:25
33.3km
240m
Road cycling
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: February 3, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
13.7 km
Scenic Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
14.0 km
Trail cut through the rock
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
16.7 km
Bob Smith Memorial Bench
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
19.2 km
Willard Munger State Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
33.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
33.1 km
172 m
Surfaces
30.1 km
3.25 km
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (340 m)
Lowest point (230 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 10 July
28°C
13°C
19 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a rewarding road cycling experience that blends natural beauty with a touch of history, the "Trail cut through the rock – Willard Munger State Trail loop from Jay Cooke State Park" is definitely worth your time. This easy 20.7-mile (33.3 km) route, with a manageable 792 feet (241 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 25 minutes, making it perfect for a leisurely ride or a quick fitness boost. It's one of the popular trails and routes in the region for those who appreciate diverse scenery without extreme physical demands.
What to expect on Trail cut through the rock – Willard Munger State Trail loop from Jay Cooke State Park
This loop offers a journey through varied landscapes, starting near Jay Cooke State Park and quickly immersing you in dense forests of coniferous, aspen, and birch trees. The highlight, and namesake, is the dramatic "trail cut through the rock" section, where the path carves directly through impressive rock formations, particularly between Carlton and Duluth. You'll also enjoy picturesque views of the St. Louis River and its estuary, with some segments offering glimpses of the twin ports of Duluth and Superior. While generally easy, some sections might have minor surface imperfections, so keep an eye out, especially if you're on a road bike with narrow tires. This route is ideal for cyclists looking for scenic viewpoints and natural features without a strenuous climb.
Planning your visit
The trail conveniently starts from Jay Cooke State Park, which provides easy access and parking. Given the trail's popularity, arriving earlier in the day is always a good idea, especially on weekends, to secure a spot and enjoy a quieter ride. The Willard Munger State Trail is generally accessible throughout the warmer months, with fall offering spectacular foliage. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for the trail itself, though state park entry fees might apply if you utilize park facilities extensively.
Trail details
- Distance: 20.7 miles (33.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 792 feet (241 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 25 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free