Hastings is home to more than 400 acres of open space including 37 city parks.  The Parks system is highlighted by the 25 foot Vermillion River Waterfall which was once used to power the gristmill.  This is also the site of the first operating mill in Minnesota. Now the waterfall serves as a beautiful attraction that is easily accessible to all and located within Vermillion Falls Park and Old Mill Park.

The City has also invested in a contiguous 10-mile scenic walking and biking trail which takes you along the Mississippi River to watch boats and barges tug by.  Continue along the trail past Lock and Dam #2 and on towards the banks of the Vermillion River and the Vermillion Waterfalls.  Pedestrian underpasses at County Road 46/47 and Highway 61 allow users to avoid traffic and continue enjoying the trail in an uninterrupted fashion.