Special deer hunt limits Jay Cooke State Park access

CARLTON, Minn. — Parts of Jay Cooke State Park are set to temporarily close for a special deer hunt.

From December 6-10, portions will be closed for a special muzzleloader deer hunt aimed to prevent the overpopulation of deer and protect park resources.

“Due to the years of over-browsing when there was no deer hunting within the park, we now see limited younger age classes of long-lived conifers. The hunts help reduce browsing on trees and other plants we are trying to retain in these forest communities,” said Cathy Handrick, Resource Management Supervisor.

Hiking trails throughout the park will be closed, and officials say visitors should not access any areas south of the swinging bridge.

The swinging bridge, campground, office area, River Inn area, and the Munger Trail will remain accessible to visitors.

Visitors are advised to wear blaze orange if visiting the open areas.

Muzzleloader deer hunts in the park started in 1997, and since 2013, an average of 19 deer have been harvested annually.

Around 50 hunters will participate in this year’s hunt.

More information on the hunt and closures can be found on their website.