Vermillion Falls

Hastings, Minnesota

4.5/5

based on 2 reviews

Save

View all 9 photos

All 9 photos

Save Review Directions Add Photo

Details

Distance

0.8 miles

Elevation Gain

56 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Robin Pfeifer

Vermillion Falls is located just outside of Hastings' well-preserved, historic city center. In the 19th century, this 35-foot waterfall was used to power a gristmill for one of St. Paul’s leading businessmen. Today, it’s a beautiful attraction that is easily accessible to all.

Begin in the Old Mills parking lot located on 18th Street E. Head south along the paved trail running parallel to the railroad tracks. This trail is part of a 10-mile loop that leads out of the park and past the banks of the Mississippi. In approximately ½ mile, you’ll cross a long, wooden bridge spanning a dramatically deep limestone gorge. Follow the trail west through Vermillion Falls Park. In roughly ½ mile, you’ll see an observation deck on your right. This gives you an excellent top-down view of the falls and the remains of the mill. For an even better view, follow the well-worn footpath through the trees and scramble along the falls’ slick, limestone base.

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Hiking

Easy Parking

Waterfalls

Vermillion Falls Reviews

Sarah Jorgenson

Vermillion Falls

07/16/17

I went with my friend, we used a different address for the park. We went to vermillion park instead and was able to get to the falls!! The path is fun to hike. Then we went to the address and followed random paths until we fund these really cool ruins right on the river!! I would totally recommend!

4.0

Ashlee Zentgraf

Vermillion Falls

03/27/17

Loved the off trail hiking to the waterfall and be sure to see the ruins at old mill ruins park. There is also a 10 mile bike/walk loop well worth making the trip for.

5.0

Robin Pfeifer

Vermillion Falls

11/17/15

Come for the waterfall, stay for the rest of the park. It's a great place to lay in the shade of a giant tree and watch the clouds float by all afternoon long.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike the Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area Loop

Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area, the largest intact prairie system located within the Twin Cities, is home to a number of rare plants and animals. The SNA has no marked or maintained trails, but there are a few well-worn footpaths that create an easy-to-follow three mile loop through the area's most interesting features.Begin in the south parking lot located at the top of the bluff...

Hike the Afton State Park Trail

This diverse, 2,702-acre park has trails for both day hikers and backpackers – some with scenic views of the St. Croix River, others which drop into quiet ravines. For the best views of the valley, explore off-trail, where you may find hidden bluffs with panoramic views.The park also offers horseback riding, mountain biking, swimming, and cross-country skiing, in the winter.A good introductory ...

Bike the Cannon Valley Trail

There are multiple entry points to the Cannon Valley Trail along the 19.7 miles of paved path that connect the towns of Cannon Falls and Red Wing. Because the trail requires a $4 daily pass, pick your entry point next to a Wheel Pass station. The most elaborate entry point is via the town of Welch, which has bathrooms, bike rental and picnic areas. Click here for a trail map.The trail sits on t...

Paddle the Cannon River

If you want a quiet, secluded paddle, this may not be the adventure for you. The Cannon River is a very popular destination in the summer months for groups of canoers, kayakers and tubers. Drinking on the river is not discouraged.Book a reservation with Welch Mill. They provide shuttle service, life jackets, canoes/kayaks and paddles (cash only). Pack a cooler of beverages and push off down the...

Lebanon Hills Blue Trail Loop

Hike Barn Bluff

Barn Bluff in Red Wing, Minn., is an enjoyable and easily-accessible hike. Even at a slow pace, it takes just 30-45 minutes to reach the peak.There is ample parking on 5th Street near the Barn Bluff sign. Take the stairs to the trail head. From there, you'll have a few trail options:1) South Trail: This is the easiest, most efficient way to reach the summit. The South Trail runs along the south...

Vermillion Falls

Details

Description

Download the Outbound mobile app

Features

Vermillion Falls Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Hike the Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area Loop

Hike the Afton State Park Trail

Bike the Cannon Valley Trail

Paddle the Cannon River

Lebanon Hills Blue Trail Loop

Hike Barn Bluff

Discover

Community

Company

Follow Us

Mobile Apps