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Jay Cooke Cottage: Dogs welcome,Wood burning Sauna, cold plunge, firepit & grill

Photo gallery for Jay Cooke Cottage: Dogs welcome,Wood burning Sauna, cold plunge, firepit & grill

A living room with a sofa, a coffee table, a lamp, and a patterned rug. There is a TV and a fireplace in the background.
A cozy living room with a sofa, a television, and a fireplace.
A compact kitchen with white appliances, a wooden door, and a patterned rug.
A forested area with a circular seating area and a hammock.
A small, single-story house with a porch, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and tall trees.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Bring your furry friends
    Top-rated for creating memorable stays with your pets.
  • Games at the ready
    One of the few properties with video games available for guests.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Near Jay Cooke State Park
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Patio
  • Dog-friendly
  • Barbecue
  • Air-conditioning
  • Refrigerator
  • Onsite parking available

Explore the area

View map
Esko, MN
  • Place, Jay Cooke State Park
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, Spirit Mountain
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Aerial Lift Bridge
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Airport, Duluth, MN (DLH-Duluth Intl.)
    ‪25 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Queen Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Number of living rooms
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Jay Cooke Cottage: Dogs welcome,Wood burning Sauna, cold plunge, firepit & grill

You will enjoy having the entire cottage and a 1 acre yard right off Jay Cooke Rd. There is a new and seperate cedar wood burning sauna behind the cottage with a new cold plunge as well.

You willl be able to finally unwind and let all of the stress at home escape when you are sitting along with the 70 feet pine trees or reading in a gentle breeze.

It is a park like yard with a firepit and grill outdoor furniture snd dining area. There is room to just sit back and listen to all of the birds through this Jay cooke area. As of 07/01/26 we have seen a large bear and many other sightings as well. Please take all food inside.

Down the road is the superior hiking trail (SHT) and the munger trail boasting several miles of rugged hiking paths, 7o miles of smooth blacktop paths on munger and easy access to COGGS trails for mt biking. We are close to everything in Jay Cooke State Park. Including the St Louis River. Close access, off 35 to get to Duluth.

The quiet neighborhood will help you enjoy star filled nights by the fire pit and sounds of nature's surroundings. We do have bears in the neighborhood as of July 2, 26 so we not recommended to have food outside.

Our kitchen is supplied with any utensil you would need to cook a meal for your family or group of 6 or less.

We have a coffee pot that brews by the pot or uses k-pods. If you wish to cook outside we have a charcoal grill and freestanding grill for over the fire pit.

Our cottage does NOT have any cameras for your privacy.

~Mike and Andrea

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 453 kg per pet (limit 3 pets total)
Please make sure the 49.00 pet fee is paid.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights
Please make sure dishes are done and put the towels in the hamper. Please clean up dog poop. Enjoy the peace.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please be aware of neighbors and not have music or loud voices after 10 pm. Thanks.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number 4051133
Property # 4051133vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Esko

Located in Esko, this cottage is in a rural area and near the beach. Spirit Mountain and Proctor Golf Club and Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Encore Performing Arts Center and Gary New Duluth Park. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Proctor Dirt Floor Arena or Wade Stadium. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the sledging and snowmobiling.
View more Cottages in EskoOpens in a new window
Map
Esko, MN

What's nearby

  • Jay Cooke State Park - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Spirit Mountain - 10 min drive - 17.4 km
  • Duluth Entertainment Convention Center - 19 min drive - 32.1 km
  • Aerial Lift Bridge - 21 min drive - 33.5 km
  • Miller Hill Mall - 21 min drive - 32.1 km

Getting around

  • Duluth, MN (DLH-Duluth Intl.) - 30 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Kwik Trip - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Kwik Trip - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Buffalo House - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Streetcar Kitchen & Pub - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Jay Cooke Cottage: Dogs welcome,Wood burning Sauna, cold plunge, firepit & grill pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total) with a maximum weight of up to 453 kg per pet.

How much is parking at Jay Cooke Cottage: Dogs welcome,Wood burning Sauna, cold plunge, firepit & grill?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Jay Cooke Cottage: Dogs welcome,Wood burning Sauna, cold plunge, firepit & grill?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Jay Cooke Cottage: Dogs welcome,Wood burning Sauna, cold plunge, firepit & grill?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Jay Cooke Cottage: Dogs welcome,Wood burning Sauna, cold plunge, firepit & grill located?

Situated near the beach, this cottage is 0.2 mi (0.4 km) from Jay Cooke State Park and 1.8 mi (3 km) from Saint Louis River. Esko Historical Society Museum and Northridge Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 103 out of 110 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 110 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 110 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 110 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 110 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent hosts and cottage!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Sept 2026
Thank you, we look forward to having you again and so glad you enjoyed. Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute little place, had everything we needed and the hosts were super nice and friendly. Would book there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Sept 2026
Thank you, we are ao happy you enjoyed your time. We would love to have you back. Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We were very pleased with our stay. Everything went smoothly, the hosts were available and gracious, and the property was clean, well kept, well supplied, and very comfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept 2026
Thank you, we would love to have you back. Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very peaceful place so close to woods and water.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2026
Thanks Kathryn. I al glad you were able to take some time to recharge in nature. Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a great location to bring the dogs with. Plenty of room for them to be outside and investigate the yard and a beautiful area to walk with them.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2026
Jennifer, Thank you so much for the great writeup. We appreciate it and welcome you back. Safe travels, Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great stay at this property, very quiet and beautiful location. Owner was very friendly and accomodating. He gave us some great back roads to travel in the area while touring on our motorcycles. Thanks again for a great stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2026
Hey Brad, thank you for the review..we would love to have you back. Thanks again, Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The whole family including the dogs loved the place! Loved the sauna and fire pit! Hosts were great communicators.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug 2026
Shalyn, We are so happy you got time to enjoy the sauna too! You are all welcome back at any time. Safe travels, Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The rental was exactly what we needed. If you are looking for a "no frills" and simple set-up with nice touches, this is your place. We didn't use the sauna, but there's always next time!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place. Very clean and comfortable. Hosts were incredibly responsive and made the stay very easy. Great recommendations for the area. Close to what you need but still feels remote.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 July 2026
Thank you, Lesley. It was our pleasure having you as guests and you are welcome back anytime. Mike and Andrea
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Apr 2026
Thank you, Fiona we hope you can come back when it is nicer out!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The hosts were amazing and so accommodating. This is a must stay spot. Beautiful, quiet, and spacious with a clean and functional pace!
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 18 May 2026
Thank you for taking the time to review. You were great guests and we look forward to having you again. Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very comfortable accommodations. Our dogs loved to explore the open yard.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 31 May 2026
Thank you, we are so happy that your family enjoyed the open space. We would love to have you again. Safe travels, Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute place. Had everything we needed. Was close to the state park
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 6 June 2026
Thanks, Kathy We appreciate the time you took to write a review. Truly appreciated and hope to have you again. Best, Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful and peaceful spot for the family to be close to the state park and have a relaxing yard to wined down after hiking. Easy to communicate with hosts!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 10 June 2026
Michelle, We are thrilled your family had a great stay and enjoyed all of the nature and closeness to the state park. Please come back and visit. Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Highly recommend this property! Very clean, nice 2 bedroom cabin in a very convenient location. Close to town and bike trails and Jay Cooke State Park. Also very close to Duluth, so we had a great visit to Canal Park. And at the end of each adventurous day, we got to go back to this nice country cabin, and grill out and have a nice private campfire! Nice furnishings and comfortable beds! Easy check-in and check-out. Owners were very nice to deal with and responded to our texts promptly! One of the best places we have rented out!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Aug 2026
Cindy, Thank you for the great review. If you are ever in the area we would love to have you back. Thanks, Andrea and Mike
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great little cottage. Very clean and host is super responsive. Great location for exploring Jay Cooke State park and other hikes. Also close to bike trail. This was our second time staying here and I’m sure we’ll be back.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 9 June 2026
Thank you, April. We cant wait to have you again. Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
We really enjoyed our stay at the cottage. We brought our 3 dogs with us who felt at home as well. Definitely will stay again soon. Hosts are excellent with communication.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was very clean.Location was quiet.Ample room for dogs.Short distance from Duluth and state park.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 31 May 2026
Heidi, thank you for your review. Safe travels, Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved this place so much! It was in a beautiful peaceful location, comfy couch and bed. Kitchen had everything we needed. Communication was great with owners. Would def stay again!
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 5 May 2026
Shawne, Thank you so much for taking the time to review the cottage. You were a wonderful guest and we would love to have you back when it warms up or in the autumn when the leaves are beautiful. Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing stay for my wife and I and our dog. Cozy cottage in a peaceful setting near Jay Cooke state park and a short drive into Duluth. Hosts were very accommodating and quick to answer questions. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Apr 2026
Mark, thank you for the review. We would love to see you again when it is warmer out. Best, Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean, very efficient home in a fantastic location. The home was equipped with everything we needed and the host communication was above and beyond anything I’ve ever experienced before. During our stay the area had unusually hot temps and our hosts reached out multiple times to make sure we were comfortable in their home and all our needs were met. Mike and Andrea are amazing hosts and we would definitely book with them again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 14 July 2026
Jerri, We loved you as guests. It is so fun knowing others from common places. We will be seeing you around and thank you so much for the wonderful review.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My family of five had a great time at the cottage. Everything was clean and the host was great. There is lots to do in the area and we never wanted for fun. The cottage has a Atari that the kids real enjoyed and a selection of dvds that included tons of favorites. So even if you're rained out you can relax and have a nice time. I highly recommend this cottage!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2026
Alex, Thank you for such a great review. We loved having you all and would love to have you back. Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The kitchen was equipped for cooking. Everything was adequate for our stay. We enjoyed the spacious yard for a camp fire and for frisbee.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 May 2026
Thank you, Robert. We would love to have you back. We appreciate you taking time to review. Mike and Andrea
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The hosts were very accommodating and friendly! We were very excited about the sauna but we happened to stay over a heat wave. So Mike went and bought a trough to use as a cold plunge that day. And it worked out great. The house was perfect. Very clean. We were able to squeeze 6 people in comfortably. And the proximity to Jay Cook was a huge plus.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Sept 2026
Thank you for coming, welcome back anytime
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Great location to get to Jay Cooke
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

About the host

Hosted by Mike Tegethoff

Host profile image
We have been living in this area for over 13 years and love connecting you to local gems where you can potentially find local swimming holes off of the superior hiking trail to the new beach on the st louis river. We love being able to fish, kayak, ski, snowboard and hike in this beautiful area.

Why they chose this property

We like that we are in the small and safe town of Esko, MN. The neighborhood has so much space for privacy and acres between most houses.. some great mt biking or road biking trails, kayaking the st louis river, to hiking the superior hiking trail are all close by.
It is nice to have a short cut to Duluth through Jay Cooke State Park to Chambers Grove, Mission Creek, the Boy Scout boat Landing and the munger boat landing as well. Good fishing options all around.

What makes this property unique

There are bears in the area and we have spotted many bald eagles on the property. Our cottage is in Esko, MN not the west end of duluth compared to many other short term vacation rentals which brings a more restful vibe to your stay with less people to worry about. You are in a peaceful and recharging outdoor setting with the comforts of home with a loaded kitchen, bedrooms, bathroom with Minnesota charm directly outside Jay Cooke State Park.

Languages:

English

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