Cities and Towns in Carlton County, Minnesota

Founded in 1857, Carlton County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Carlton County was formed from Pine County and Saint Louis County. The city of Carlton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 17, Carlton County has a population of 36,409 and area of 860.33 square miles (2,228 km²)

List of all cities in Carlton County, MN alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Barnum, MN	55707	218
Carlton, MN	55718	218
Cloquet, MN	55720	218
Cromwell, MN	55726	218
Esko, MN	55733	218
Holyoke, MN	55749	218
	55797	218
Kettle River, MN	55757	218
Knife Falls, MN	55720	218
Mahtowa, MN	55707	218
Moose Lake, MN	55767	218
Nickerson, MN	55797	218
Sawyer, MN	55780	218
Scanlon, MN	55720	218
Skelton, MN	55707	218
Wrenshall, MN	55749	218
	55797	218
Wright, MN	55798	218

Major Cities and Towns in Carlton County, Minnesota

1. Carlton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.05 square miles
• Population: 1,000 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 55718
• Latitude: 46.6980° N
• Longitude: 92.4395° W

City Location and History

Carlton is a small city in the eastern part of Carlton County, located along the Saint Louis River. It was founded in the late 1800s and named after Carlton County, which itself is named for Carlton, England. The city was established as a logging and agricultural community, benefiting from its location along the river and proximity to the railroad. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s spurred growth, making Carlton a key shipping and trading hub for timber and agricultural products.

Carlton is historically linked to the logging industry, which was once a significant economic driver in the region, as well as to the fur trade with Native American tribes. Over time, the town transitioned to a more diversified economy with a focus on farming and small industries. In recent decades, Carlton has become a quiet, residential town with a strong sense of community, while also being close to the city of Duluth, providing residents with easy access to more urban amenities. The area is rich in natural beauty, surrounded by forests, lakes, and rivers that offer ample outdoor recreational opportunities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Carlton is served by the Carlton Public Schools district, which includes Carlton High School and Carlton Elementary School. The district offers solid educational programs, as well as extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and arts. Major landmarks in Carlton include the Carlton County Historical Society Museum, which provides exhibits on the city’s logging history and early settler life. The Saint Louis River is another notable landmark, offering recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking. Carlton’s Veterans Memorial Park honors those who served in the military and provides a place for community events. Nearby, Jay Cooke State Park, located just outside of Carlton, is a major attraction known for its beautiful hiking trails, the Swinging Bridge over the St. Louis River, and opportunities for camping and wildlife viewing. The Carlton County Fairgrounds hosts the annual Carlton County Fair, which features livestock shows, carnival rides, and local entertainment. Carlton is also known for its annual Old Tyme Festival, which includes a parade, local food, and music, celebrating the community’s heritage and traditions.

2. Wrenshall

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.72 square miles
• Population: 500 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 55797
• Latitude: 46.5570° N
• Longitude: 92.5449° W

City Location and History

Wrenshall is a small city located in the southeastern part of Carlton County, about 15 miles south of Duluth. The city was founded in the late 1800s and originally established as a railroad stop along the Northern Pacific Railroad, which brought settlers to the area and helped foster the growth of local businesses. Wrenshall was named after a local railroad executive, and its early economy was driven by timber, agriculture, and the transportation of goods.

In the early 20th century, the city’s agricultural industry began to dominate, with farming and dairying being central to the local economy. Wrenshall remained a quiet rural town, with the population gradually growing over the years. Despite the small size of the town, Wrenshall is known for its close-knit community and scenic beauty, nestled among forests and farmland. Today, it serves as a peaceful residential area for people working in nearby Duluth, but still retains its rural charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wrenshall is served by the Wrenshall School District, which includes Wrenshall High School and Wrenshall Elementary School. The district is known for its small class sizes, personalized attention for students, and emphasis on community involvement. Notable landmarks in Wrenshall include The Wrenshall Community Center, which hosts local events and gatherings, providing a central point for the town’s social life. The Wrenshall Historical Society maintains the Wrenshall Depot, a historic railroad station that offers exhibits on the city’s early history and railroad significance. The Wrenshall Cemetery holds historical significance and is the site of the graves of some of the earliest settlers in the area. The town is also known for its annual Wrenshall Days, a community festival featuring live entertainment, local food, and family-friendly activities, which brings residents together to celebrate the town’s history and culture. Additionally, the surrounding area offers outdoor recreational opportunities, with hiking, fishing, and boating available on nearby rivers and lakes, such as those found in Jay Cooke State Park to the north.

3. Barnum

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.22 square miles
• Population: 500 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 55707
• Latitude: 46.5031° N
• Longitude: 92.7010° W

City Location and History

Barnum is a small city located in the northwestern part of Carlton County, about 30 miles south of Duluth. The city was founded in the late 1800s and named after the famous circus showman P.T. Barnum, who was a prominent figure in American entertainment. Barnum originally developed as a railroad stop along the Northern Pacific Railroad and was centered around the lumber and farming industries, with the region’s abundant forests providing timber for the growing community.

In the early 20th century, Barnum’s economy transitioned to focus more on agriculture, with dairy farming and crop production becoming important to the town’s livelihood. Barnum has also long been known for its close proximity to the St. Louis River, which made it a popular location for both agriculture and trade. Over the years, Barnum’s population remained small, and the city became known for its rural charm and proximity to natural areas, including Jay Cooke State Park. Today, Barnum is a quiet town with a strong sense of community, serving as a peaceful retreat for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Barnum is served by the Barnum School District, which includes Barnum High School and Barnum Elementary School. The district offers a wide range of academic programs, as well as extracurricular activities, including sports teams and arts programs. Notable landmarks in Barnum include the Barnum Historical Society, which maintains a museum showcasing the town’s history, particularly its railroad and timber industries. The Barnum City Park is a key outdoor gathering spot for residents, with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The Barnum Fire Department and Fire Hall are both important local landmarks, and the town’s Veterans Memorial honors those who have served in the military. The town is located near Jay Cooke State Park, which offers hiking, camping, and views of the St. Louis River. Barnum is also known for hosting the Barnum Harvest Festival, an annual event that includes a parade, local vendors, and family-friendly activities celebrating the town’s history and community spirit. The surrounding area is known for its scenic rural landscapes, making it a popular spot for photography and outdoor activities.

4. Holyoke

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.2 square miles
• Population: 100 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 55749
• Latitude: 46.3964° N
• Longitude: 92.4170° W

City Location and History

Holyoke is an unincorporated community located in the southeastern part of Carlton County. Originally settled as a railroad town, Holyoke was established as a stop along the Northern Pacific Railroad in the late 1800s, which facilitated the transport of timber and agricultural goods. The name “Holyoke” is believed to have been inspired by Holyoke, Massachusetts, as many early settlers came from that area.

In its early years, Holyoke relied heavily on the timber industry, which dominated much of the region. However, as the timber supply dwindled, the economy shifted toward agriculture, particularly dairy farming. Over time, Holyoke remained a small, quiet town with a sparse population, with many residents commuting to nearby towns for work. The area is known for its natural beauty, surrounded by forests and lakes, making it a peaceful and scenic place to live. Despite its small size, the community has maintained a strong sense of pride and local involvement.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Holyoke falls within the Carlton School District, and local students typically attend schools in the nearby towns of Carlton or Wrenshall. The small size of the community means that there are fewer dedicated local schools or educational institutions, but students benefit from access to schools in neighboring areas. Major landmarks in the area include Holyoke’s Historic Railroad Depot, which is a reminder of the town’s founding and its once important role as a railroad hub. The St. Louis River provides scenic views and opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as fishing and canoeing. Holyoke Community Park offers a place for local gatherings and outdoor activities, though it is a quieter park compared to larger cities. The nearby Jay Cooke State Park offers hiking, camping, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding region is also known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural landscapes, attracting those looking to enjoy a slower pace of life away from city crowds.