Historic Sandstone Buildings Evans Plunge Mineral Springs SOAK IN HOT SPRINGS 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. 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. 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. Hot Springs Continued on Page 78 BlackHillsBadlands.com // 75 BLACK HILLS & BADLANDS REGION
South Dakota Vacation Guide South Dakota Vacation Guide South Dakota Vacation Guide 2020: Page 75
