Best attractions and places to see around Carlton offer a range of outdoor experiences, from scenic trails to historic bridges. This region features natural landscapes including rivers, gorges, and forests, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. Visitors can discover 3 notable attractions, many of which are family-friendly and offer viewpoints.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
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The Willard Munger State Trail, spanning between Hinckley and Duluth, offers trails for hiking, biking, in-line skating, snowmobiling, and horseback riding. This scenic trail passes through northern hardwood forests, pine stands, and bog-filled hills. It also follows a historic railroad route that saved lives during the Hinckley and Cloquet fires in the 19th century. Visitors have the opportunity here to spot a variety of wildlife, including whitetail deer, raccoons, foxes, porcupines, and occasionally bobcats or black bears.
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The Saint Louis River is a sight, especially from the historic truss bridge that crosses it on the William Munger Trail. You can feel the force of the water as it carves a deep gorge through the rocks, creating a dramatic contrast with the forested hills. The bridge is part of Jay Cooke State Park, where you can find plenty of hiking, biking, and camping. The park also features the Thomson Dam, a hint of Duluth’s industrial past.
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Ely’s Peak is a rewarding hike that offers spectacular views of Duluth and beyond. The trail is part of the Superior Hiking Trail, a network of trails that spans the entire length of Minnesota. You can enjoy the scenery of forests, wildflowers, and rock formations along the way. The hike is moderately challenging but suitable for most skill levels. Ely’s Peak is a great way to experience the beauty and history of Duluth.
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This is a good park to rest at. If you pack a lunch with you or need a quick nap, do it here. There is a water fountain here to refill your bottles.
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Great spot for some pictures to show off how far you've rode if you start the trail from Hinckley, MN.
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A beautiful view of the tiny falls.
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The trail is cut through the rock, making it look like you're going through a small canyon.
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Some amazing views of the St. Louis River Gorge. There's a nearly parking lot, so when I was biking through here, this section had a lot of pedestrians; that could change depending on the date and time you visit. There's also some trails down to the waters edge.
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The Carlton area is rich in natural beauty, featuring the Saint Louis River Gorge, which offers dramatic views, especially from the Historic Truss Bridge on the Saint Louis River. You can also explore northern hardwood forests, pine stands, and bog-filled hills along the Willard Munger State Trail. For panoramic views of Duluth and surrounding forests, consider a hike to Ely's Peak.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Willard Munger State Trail is great for walking and biking with kids, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Historic Truss Bridge on the Saint Louis River provides exciting views of the gorge. Additionally, Little Caboose Park offers a children's area and picnic spots, perfect for a rest stop.
Carlton has a rich history tied to its trails and natural features. The Willard Munger State Trail follows a historic railroad route that played a significant role during 19th-century fires. The Historic Truss Bridge on the Saint Louis River is another historical landmark, offering insights into the region's past and its connection to Jay Cooke State Park.
The area around Carlton is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, biking, in-line skating, snowmobiling, and horseback riding on the Willard Munger State Trail. Jay Cooke State Park, home to the Historic Truss Bridge, also offers extensive hiking, biking, and camping opportunities. For more specific routes, explore the cycling guides around Carlton or the easy hikes around Carlton.
Yes, there are numerous hiking trails. The Willard Munger State Trail is excellent for hiking through diverse landscapes. The Historic Truss Bridge on the Saint Louis River is part of Jay Cooke State Park, which features many trails, including paths down to the water's edge. Ely's Peak is also a rewarding hike and part of the Superior Hiking Trail network. You can find more options in the easy hikes around Carlton guide.
Carlton is known for its cycling routes. The Willard Munger State Trail is a popular choice for biking, offering a scenic ride through forests and hills. A unique section is the Trail cut through the rock, which provides a canyon-like passage for cyclists. For detailed routes, check out the cycling guides around Carlton.
Yes, the Trail cut through the rock is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering an interesting passage through a rock cut. While specific accessibility details for all attractions vary, many paved sections of the Willard Munger State Trail may also be suitable.
Visitors particularly enjoy the dramatic views of the Saint Louis River Gorge from the Historic Truss Bridge, noting the force of the water and the contrast with forested hills. The unique experience of cycling or walking through the Trail cut through the rock is also a highlight, often described as a canyon-like passage. The scenic beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities along the Willard Munger State Trail are also highly appreciated.
For stunning views, the Historic Truss Bridge on the Saint Louis River offers dramatic perspectives of the river gorge. Another excellent spot is Ely's Peak, which provides spectacular panoramic views of Duluth and the surrounding natural landscape.
Yes, Little Caboose Park is a good spot to rest, offering a sheltered area with picnic tables. It's also a convenient place to refill water bottles, though availability can vary. Many sections of the Willard Munger State Trail and Jay Cooke State Park also feature designated rest areas.
Along the Willard Munger State Trail, visitors have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including whitetail deer, raccoons, foxes, and porcupines. Occasionally, bobcats or black bears might also be seen in the more secluded areas.


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