Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park consists of 506 acres of hills and dramatic, heavily wooded ravines with occasional clearings of old field and prairie. This varied topography and landscape types means that its slopes receive different sun exposures. This creates an unusual variety of vegetation and habitats. Look for grouse, ermine, cottontail rabbits, deer and a number of bird species, including the pileated woodpecker.
Park Hours are 7 a.m. until one-half hour after sunset
Vehicle permits are required on all vehicles entering the park. Permits may be purchased by depositing the permit fee into the envelope and payment box located at the entrance of the park. Please follow the instructions on the envelope.
Park Facilities include...
- fishing pier;
- play structure;
- picnic shelter;
- cross country ski trails;
- paved trails;
- hiking trails.
Note: Mountain bikes and horses are not allowed in this park.
- Pets are not allowed.
- All vehicles must display a valid Washington County Parks vehicle permit.
- Water may not be available after Oct. 1.
- A 100-gallon beverage cooling tank may be rented when you rent a shelter (ice is NOT included).
Picnic Shelter Amenities:
- shelter size is 1,640 square feet.
- parking capacity for 80 cars.
- rustic restrooms available year-round.
- one 36-inch by 36-inch charcoal grill.
- one electric outlet.
- one six-foot serving counter.
- picnic tables.
- water spigot.
Reservations and General Shelter Information
Seven miles of this regional park's trail system have been designated for cross-country ski use. The ski trails are part of a four-mile ravine that provide skiers with 150 feet of elevation change. The slopes can be steep, and are most suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers. A Minnesota Ski Pass is required for those skiers age 16 and older. This pass cannot be purchased in the park; however, they are available wherever Minnesota Department of Natural Resources licenses are sold.
A picnic shelter with rustic restrooms is also available.
For the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors, please follow all park regulations and use basic trail etiquette.
- Be courteous to other trail users.
- Leave the ski trail in good shape. Snowmobiles, hiking boots, sleds and snowshoes all destroy ski trails and are not allowed.
- Skiers must follow one-way trails in the proper direction.
- Ski skating is allowed on designated loops only.
- Leave your pet at home - they are not allowed on the ski trails.
- Place litter in the park's waste containers - not on the trail.
- Alcoholic beverages are not allowed.
