Located in the heart of Hot Springs, South Dakota, Evans Plunge is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the Black Hills, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its natural, healing waters.
Established in 1890, Evans Plunge has become a favorite destination for those seeking relaxation, recreation, and a connection to the area's rich history. Whether you’re soaking in the warm waters, swimming laps, or relaxing in the sauna, Evans Plunge promises a memorable experience for all ages.
Is Evans Plunge chlorinated?
Evans Plunge is a spring-fed pool. The mineral waters were originally promoted as a cure for various ailments, but today, they are more commonly enjoyed for relaxation, rejuvenation, and recreation. The water flows at a rate of 5,000 gallons per minute from a large thermal spring at the north end and several smaller springs of the pool, providing a constant flow of fresh water that eliminates any need for chlorine.
The history of Evans Plunge in Hot Springs
Evans Plunge was originally built by Fred Evans in 1890, and the mineral-rich waters have been drawing visitors ever since. The name Evans Plunge is a tribute to its builder, while the area’s original Native American name, Minnekahta, meaning "warm water," perfectly captures the allure of the natural springs that flow through Hot Springs, South Dakota. The spring-fed waters maintain a consistent 87°F throughout the year, offering visitors a soothing and therapeutic experience that has been sought after for centuries.
The warm mineral springs experience
When you first step into the pool, the water may feel cooler than you expect, that's because it's slightly cooler than your regular body temperature. However, as you swim, your body will adjust — and it's actually the perfect temperature for swimming laps or joining in on one of the water aerobics classes at the pool.
The water is warmest at the north end of the pool, where the largest spring bubbles up. This natural flow creates a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere, allowing swimmers to unwind, exercise, and soak in therapeutic waters all at the same time.
Evans Plunge continues to be a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The large pool is perfect for swimming, while a nearby hot tub offers additional relaxation. The pool's natural environment and therapeutic waters make it an ideal stop for those visiting the Black Hills to take a break from sightseeing or to simply relax and recharge.
How much does Evans Plunge cost?
While cost of admission may vary, at the time we wrote this post, the fees to enjoy this year-round mineral pool were:
Adults (18 years and older): $15
Children (4-17 years): $10
Children under 4 years: Free
Senior Citizens (65+): $12
If you plan to visit multiple times, season passes and group rates are available. It’s a great option for families, solo travelers, or anyone looking to enjoy the healing waters over an extended period.
Closest resort or hotel to Evans Plunge
Evans Plunge is located next door to Highland Meadows Resort. From the parking lot of Evans Plunge, you'll see a towering red cliff just across the river and atop that cliff is a peaceful mesa, a perfect place to stay when visiting Hot Springs and the surrounding area.
Highland Meadows Resort offers a peaceful retreat with luxurious cabins, each with stunning views of the Black Hills. Whether you're looking to relax after a day at Evans Plunge or want to explore nearby attractions like The Mammoth Site, Wind Cave National Park, Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and Moccasin Springs, Highland Meadows Resort is ideally located to provide a home base for your Black Hills adventure.
If you prefer staying in a nearby Hot Springs hotel, we recommend the historic FlatIron, a boutique hotel just a few blocks away, a short and beautiful walk.
Mineral content of Evans Plunge
What minerals are in Evans Plunge? Check out this chemical analysis:
Water Temperature: 87°F
Total Residue: 87.9995
Inorganic and Non-Volatile: 4.9160
Organic and Volatile: 8.050
Sulphate of Sodium: 8.824
Sulphate of Potassium: 3.331
Sulphate of Calcium: 16.290
Nitrate of Magnesium: 0.150
Iron Sesquioxide: 0.260
Alumina: 0.021
Silica: 1.830
These minerals contribute to the pool’s reputation for relaxation and rejuvenation, and visitors often come to soak in these therapeutic waters, which have been flowing naturally for thousands of years.
More than a swimming pool
In addition to the rejuvenating hot spring pool, Evans Plunge offers two hot tubs, a sauna, steam room, and a fully-equipped gym that caters to a wide range of fitness enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to lift weights or get in some cardio, the gym has something for everyone. It features free weights, a variety of exercise machines, exercise bikes, and treadmills, allowing guests to maintain their fitness routine while enjoying their visit.
The gym is a perfect complement to the tranquil, healing waters of the plunge, offering a dynamic balance of relaxation and exercise. After a good workout, you can take a refreshing dip in the mineral-rich waters to soothe sore muscles and relax.
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