Jay Cooke State Park reopens after flood

DULUTH, Minn. (AP) -- Jay Cooke State Park has reopened four months after being closed by major flooding in northeastern Minnesota.

The park reopened Monday, after flooding in June washed away roads, trails and bridges. Visitors must enter the park using the western entrance from Thomson.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says campgrounds and camper cabins will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and visitors will have access to most recreational trails. Interpretive programs begin Nov. 3.

Park Manager Gary Hoeft says access across Jay Cooke's swinging bridge won't be available this fall or winter. Hoeft says the bridge needs extensive repairs before it can reopen.

The swinging bridge is expected to reopen late next summer.

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