Carlton, Minnesota Chamber Website
Carlton, Minnesota - The Year was 1870, and the Northern Pacific Railroad had decided to complete the one stretch or track that would connect Duluth to St. Paul. In February, the work began and where once only pines and aspens resided, temporary shacks for the workmen were erected, creating the settlement of "Northern Pacific Junction".

It is this settlement that in 1881 was officially incorporated by the State of Minnesota as “Carlton”, named after Ruben Carlton, the first Senator in the Minnesota Legislature from this district.   Today, Carlton is a thriving and friendly community with a rich history of fur explorations along the St. Louis River, white pine logging, and the beginning point of the Northern Pacific Railroad; along with a “by hook or crook” tale of how Carlton became the County Seat. Many lakes and rivers attract people from neighboring communities to enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and skiing. Carlton is the gateway to Jay Cooke State Park and the Willard Munger and Alex Laveau state trails, providing hiking, biking, and rollerblading in a beautiful natural environment. Enjoy a ride down the St. Louis River.

Carlton’s main street provides its residents and visitors with various service-oriented businesses, eateries and unique shopping opportunities. Main Street also serves as the starting point of “Rushing Rapids Parkway” a 9-mile designated Minnesota Scenic Byway that begins in downtown Carlton and continues through Jay Cooke State Park.

The residents of Carlton voted to name and dedicate the recently constructed shelter located on the Munger Trail after its origin. The “Northern Pacific Junction” shelter provides trail enthusiasts with a beautiful and convenient location to stop for a picnic or just to relax along their journey. The shelter also serves as an accessible starting point for a 14-mile trek along the trail to Duluth. Parking, water, picnic and restroom facilities are all available for your convenience and pleasure.