2019-12-20 04:53:58
The city of Hot Springs was founded as a frontier health spa, capitalizing on springs of warm mineral waters flowing through Fall River Canyon. The town is set in a sandstone canyon with classic turn-of-the-century style sandstone buildings. Under the surface of this beautiful river valley are six major thermal springs, which have relaxed and rejuvenated visitors for hundreds of years. Check out their Walking Tour that takes you along Fall River to learn more about the beautiful and unique architecture of Hot Springs. HISTORY The original settlers of 1879 called the town Minnekahta, meaning warm waters, and established it as a destination for those seeking renewal — physically, mentally and spiritually. The town’s name was changed to Hot Springs in 1886, as ranchers staked their bankroll on cattle and helped build the city of Hot Springs. In 1890, pioneer businessman Frederic Evans was among the first to see the commercial potential in the therapeutic healing waters. He embarked on an ambitious venture to turn the whole town into a health spa. Evans built the Evans Plunge over a group of small springs and one giant thermal spout of warm mineral water. MINERAL SPRINGS Open year-round, Evans Plunge Mineral Springs is the oldest tourist attraction in the Black Hills. The natural spring-fed waters maintain an average pool temperature of 87 degrees. A whopping 5,000 gallons of water per minute flow into Evans Plunge from a thermal spring at the north end of the pool, refreshing the entire pool every one and a half hours. Swim, splash and soak in the warm mineral waters. Be sure try the waterslides, fun tubes, Tarzan rings, water basketball, the spa tub, steam room and saunas. You can also experience the healing properties of natural mineral water by taking a relaxing detour at Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa, a historic location that predates Evans Plunge. Soak in their natural hot mineral springs, enjoy a soothing massage or join one of their daily yoga classes to ease your mind and body. THINGS TO DO Hot Springs is home to The Mammoth Site, world famous for the largest concentration of mammoth remains in the world. This American Alliance of Museums (AAM) accredited site is the final resting place for more than 60 large Columbian and Woolly mammoths, as well as an additional 87 animal species, that became trapped in a spring-fed sinkhole during the last ice age. Tour this indoor active dig site and view ice age fossils. Visit The Morris Grand Gallery, an international destination with contemporary and European works, Native American art and artifacts, jewelry, pottery, minerals and sculptures. The gallery is housed in former theater that once hosted opera, plays, vaudeville and movies. Indulge your senses as you search for one-of-a-kind treasures. Western Horizons Hot Air Balloons offers a unique adventure and an opportunity to experience the incredible natural beauty of the Black Hills from an exciting perspective. Located in the Southern Black Hills of South Dakota, historic Hot Springs and the surrounding area offers spectacular views unlike any other. The annual Fall River Hot Air Balloon Festival is set for Aug. 29 and 30, 2020. This celebration in the sky includes balloon launches, a night glow, arts and crafts and more throughout town. OUTDOOR RECREATION A short drive south of Hot Springs will lead you to Angostura Reservoir and Recreation Area. The reservoir has crystal clear waters, 36 miles of shoreline and some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the state. Sheps Canyon Recreation Area is located along the western side of the reservoir and provides access to the boat ramp and prime shore fishing areas. If you’re looking for adventure on two wheels, Black Hills Dual Sport LLC offers dual sport motorcycle rentals and will deliver them to you at your convenience. A dual sport bike is an incredible way to explore the Black Hills and Badlands, whether you explore forest service trails or just cruise around town or the campsite. Back in town, check out the Union Depot Visitor’s Center, located on North River Street, which provides the starting point and main artery of the Freedom Trail.
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