For your next adventure, Cottage Grove offers numerous opportunities for outdoor fun as you explore its parks, trails, and nature centers. This charming community on the banks of the Mississippi River, located just south of St. Paul, has plenty of activities suitable for all ages. Whether you’re planning a bike ride, hike, or paddling trip, Cottage Grove has something for everyone. In addition to outdoor activities, you can also enjoy various indoor attractions, delicious dining options, and must-see sights during your visit. Whether you’re catching air at the bike park, going fishing, or indulging in winter sports. Cottage Grove can meet all your outdoor adventure needs.
Biking, Hiking, Paddling Fun
As Ol’ Man River continues its 2,341-mile journey south from Cottage Grove, pedal the paved and mountain bike trails and road tour routes, or paddle the backwaters of the Mississippi for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) and test your mountain biking skills at West Draw Bike Park. If biking isn’t your passion, check out the scenic Ravines Regional Park, offering some challenging hiking paths.
.Plus. . .
- Many area maps for that next adventure
- Bike and rental shops to support your next escapade
- Where to play in between outdoor adventures
- Places to stay when visiting Cottage Grove
- and delicious places to eat.
Each year, thousands of people visit the trails and attractions here since it also has many family attractions, fun places to eat, outstanding natural beauty, and recreation options you would expect from a Mississippi River town. Along with a long list of places to stay and play here in this South Twin City metro area, you will find many bicycle riding options and fun things to do when not pedaling.
When not biking, the warm summer air welcomes good times with outdoor art fairs, restaurant patios, festival events, and water sports activities. In the Fall, you can enjoy the colorful array of the fall foliage in the city and nearby county parks, including the spectacular Schaar’s Bluff Picnic Area.
It’s in autumn when local winery and brewery establishments offer up the crisp flavors of the harvest. In between winter and spring are fat bike experiences or cross-country skiing expeditions. You can also check out the opportunities in the historic downtown district, take in the sights, venture back in time, and enjoy. Spring flowers bloom in the parks and along the bike trails, welcoming another season. It’s a sight that will make you want to come back again and again.
Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park
This 515-acre park features heavily wooded ravines, paved trails, and challenging hiking paths. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. A year-round shelter with restrooms and a play area is also available.
Kayaking at Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park
The park offers kayak rentals during certain seasons, allowing visitors to explore the serene waters and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
West Draw Bike Park
Designed for biking enthusiasts, this park offers trails and features suitable for riders of different skill levels, providing an exciting outdoor biking experience.
Cottage Grove Ice Arena
An indoor facility with three ice sheets, offering open skating sessions, lessons, and hockey programs. It’s a great place for ice skating enthusiasts to practice and enjoy the sport year-round.
Where to Bike in the Area
Being a bike-friendly community, you will find riding the streets and roads here safe and relaxing, along with the miles of paved trails nestled in Hastings. For the mountain bikers exploring Hastings, no matter what your level of expertise is, many fun trails are offered in nearby Afton State Park.
Available Maps for the Area
HaveFunBiking Hastings Area Map
Mississippi River Trail (St Paul to Hastings)
Walk/Hiking Opportunities
Carpenter St. Croix Nature Center
Area Bike Shops and Clubs
Hastings, MN 55033
651-438-3665
200 2nd St E Hastings, MN 55033
651-437-4010
Kayak Rental City of Cottage Grove 8020 80th Street S
Cottage Grove, MN 55016 651-458-3400
Route Bike Shop | 200 2nd St. E., Hastings, MN 55033 | 651-437-4010
On Track Bike and Ski | 1317 Vermillion St., Hastings, MN 55033 | 651-438-3665
Where to Play When Not Biking or Hiking
14421 90th St S, Hastings, MN 55033
651-436-8385
Website
18200 Kirby Ave S, Hastings, MN 55033
651-437-1413
2101 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN 55033
Website
Vermillion Falls | 2101 Vermillion St., Hastings, MN 55033 | 888-612-6122
Alexis Bailey Vineyard | 18200 Kirby Ave. S., Hastings, MN 55033 | 651-437-1413
Historic Downtown | Mainstreet, Hastings, MN 55033
Afton Apple Orchard | 14421 90th St. S., Hastings, MN 55033 | 651-436-8385
Where to Eat
919 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN 55033
651-437-2900
Website
2100 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN 55033
651-480-0048
Website
119 2nd St E, Hastings, MN 55033
651-437-5002
Website
100 Sibley St, Hastings, MN 55033
651-437-7577
Website
While exploring Hastings, you will find it has many great places to eat such as The Onion Grille, located in historic downtown, or stop by Schoolhouse Scoop for some great tasting ice cream.
The Onion Grille | Lunch Menu | Dinner Menu | 100 Sibley St., Hastings, MN 55033 | 651-437-7577
Karl’s Red Rock Cafe | Menu | 119 2nd St. E., Hastings, MN 55033 | 651-437-5002
Las Margaritas Mexican | Menu | 2100 Vermillion St., Hastings, MN 55033 | 651-480-0048
Schoolhouse Scoop | 919 Vermillion St., Hastings, MN 55033 | 651-437-2900
Where to Sleep When Visiting
Public Wi-Fi Spots in the Area
Along with most hotels, many coffee shops and restaurants have Wi-Fi available. Additionally, the public library is another good option. The library is Pleasant Hill Library located at 1490 South Frontage Rd., Hastings, MN 55033 and can be reached by the following number: 651-438-0200.