Welcome to Jacobson, Minnesota on the Banks of the Mississippi
Nestled on the northern edge of Aitkin County, Minnesota, at the crossroads of Minnesota State Highways 65 and 200, lies the unincorporated community of Jacobson. Once a bustling logging town known as "Mississippi Landing," Jacobson is a small, quiet town, but has great opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, those with an adventurous spirit, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape. Jacobson is a scenic 2 1/2 hour drive up Minnesota State Highway 65 from the Twin Cities, providing a serene getaway from the city's hustle and bustle. Jacobson is an hour's drive from Duluth via US Highway 2 to Minnesota State Highway 200, taking you from the shoes of Lake Superior and the Lake Superior watershed to the banks of the Mississippi River.
Quirky Lawn Decorations
Jacobson has an assortment of large and small lawn ornaments and decorations scattered throughout the town, demonstrating an eccentric side to the hamlet. There is also an Aitkin County campground a little north of Jacobson on the Great River Road and a wayside rest that is tactfully placed on the intersection of the Mississippi River and Minnesota State Highway 200, with a great view of the village's bridge across the river.
A Rich History
Jacobson's story is woven into the fabric of Minnesota's logging industry. In the late 19th century, the town served as a vital hub for timber transport, with logs being floated down the mighty Mississippi River to sawmills downstream. The legacy of this era lives on in the town's name, a tribute to Paul Jacobson, the first postmaster. For a more detailed history, visit aitkin.mngenweb.net. The Mississippi Valley Traveler also has detailed information about the history of Jacobson.
Natural Beauty Abounds
Located near the Savanna State Forest, Jacobson's true treasure lies in its breathtaking natural surroundings. The town sits humbly on the banks of the Mississippi River, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation. Cast your line for walleye, bass, and sturgeon in the river's pristine waters. Hike along scenic trails that wind through forests teeming with wildlife. Take a leisurely boat ride and soak in the tranquility of the riverbanks.
For the adventurous, Jacobson offers ATV trails, boating, canoeing, and kayaking. In winter, the landscape transforms into a wonderland for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Nearby Savanna State Park offers swimming, fishing, and hiking within a portage route between the Lake Superior watershed and the Mississippi River basin.
A Taste of Small-Town Minnesota
Jacobson's friendly community is warm and welcoming. The town has a cozy, rustic bar called The Forestry Station, a wayside park that is on the banks of the Mississippi, a volunteer fire department, a general store, and a community church. Gather with locals at the park's baseball diamond or playground, and experience the true spirit of northern Minnesota hospitality.
Why Visit?
Jacobson is a unique destination for a weekend getaway or river adventure. It is near Big Sandy Lake and far enough off of the beaten path to get a break from the influx of weekenders that head up north during the summer months. The town offers rustic cabins and campsites in the nearby Aitkin County campground.
Here are some additional tips for planning your visit to Jacobson:
- The best time to visit Jacobson is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town is also beautiful in the fall, when the leaves change color, and in the winter, when the landscape is blanketed in snow.
- If you're interested in fishing, be sure to purchase a fishing license before you go.
- There are several ATV trails in the area, ranging from easy to challenging.
- There are a few restaurants near Jacobson, but the selection is limited. You may want to bring some groceries with you, especially if you're staying in a cabin or campsite.
Interactive Map
Additional Information:
- Classification: Unincorporated Village (inset within Ball Bluff Township)
- Population: Approximately 200
- Location: Aitkin County, Minnesota, on the banks of the Mississippi River
- Distance from Minneapolis: 150 miles
- Distance from Duluth: 60 miles
- Find Jacobson on Google Maps