Known as a staple of South Dakota history is the town of hot springs. Between discovering mammoth remains and exploring natural springs, this town is full of things to do and places to see. 605 made a day trip to experience the area’s character firsthand.
HOT SPRINGS HAS 35 SANDSTONE BUILDINGS.
THE MAMMOTH SITE
Our day started at The Mammoth Site. Spanning over 14 acres, this active paleontological dig site is home to the largest concentration of Colombian mammoths in the world.
“The Mammoth Site is the only accredited museum in the Black Hills of South Dakota,” explained Bethany Cook, public relations coordinator.
Aside from the bone bed, visitors can also check out the Ice Age Exhibit Hall, Andrea’s Kids Cave, and a guided Late Ice Age tour.
“With over 80 species discovered in conjunction with the mammoths, this is such a unique experience, and you can’t really express the impact it makes on you until you see it in person,” said Cook.
Cook went on to explain that the site offers educational programs, as well as merit badge programs for Scouts.
FOSSIL FRIGHT NIGHT
OCTOBER 24 // 6 P.M.
ADMISSION IS THREE CANS OF FOOD
HOT SPRINGS’ MOTTO IS “SOUTHERN GATEWAY TO THE BLACK HILLS.”
MORNIN’ SUNSHINE COFFEE HOUSE & CATERING
After learning more about the extinction of mammoths and needing some caffeine, next up was Mornin’ Sunshine Coffee House & Catering.
The quaint location had eclectic décor and what I assumed was local art. Owner Jennifer Wallage chatted about the fresh menu options.
“We offer organic, locally roasted coffee and espresso drinks,” said Wallage. “We also have breakfast, lunch, catering, and we even offer some gluten free and vegetarian options.”
Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, this local cafe is open seven days a week and offers specials for holidays and events, all while giving back to the community.
“For example, during Sturgis Rally week we had The Purple Hog, which is a special sandwich we make every year around that time,” said Wallage. “It has blackberry jam, Swiss cheese, jalapeños, and bacon on grilled sourdough bread. It’s great.”
WALLAGE’S MUST-HAVES
+ CUBAN-STYLE ESPRESSO
+ IN-HOUSE BAKED GOODS
+ SMOKED MEATS
+ SPECIALTY HOLIDAY DRINKS
+ THE “ULTIMATE BREAKFAST BAGEL”
HOME TO 1 OF 16 NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARKS IN SOUTH DAKOTA.
EVANS PLUNGE MINERAL SPRINGS
With a fresh-baked peach muffin in hand, it was time for the final stop of the day: Evans Plunge Mineral Springs.
Cited as the oldest attraction in the Black Hills, it’s the place to “swim, splash, and soak.”
Facility director Kris Hanson explained that the grouping of natural springs was started as a cure-all facility in the 1890s.
“At 130 years old, Evans plunge is constantly filtering water in and out so it’s always fresh and clean,” said Hanson. “We don’t use chlorine because we don’t have to.”
Not technically a waterpark, the attraction has features for the entire family surrounding the 87-degree water.
“We have swing rings that let you swing across the pool like Tarzan,”
explained Hanson.
In addition to the “Tarzan ropes,” Evans Plunge also features slides, a weight room, and various fitness classes.
Wanting to stay and swim for the rest of the afternoon, it was time to leave. Until next time, Hot Springs.
