June 26, 2025 (Thu.) - Hot Springs, SD
Lynn’s blog is officially two weeks behind, thanks to a whirlwind of activities, visitors, holidays, and, well… a healthy dose of outdoor bliss (and a little laziness!). On top of that, she recently got a hard drive filled with digitized 8mm film, old slides, and camcorder tapes of the kids—over 30 hours of pure nostalgia. Between toddler giggles and vintage family moments, the blog naturally took a backseat.
The day began the usual way—Lynn up early, coffee in hand, savoring the peaceful morning.
At noon, we headed out to visit the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, SD, a stop we’d been looking forward to. En route, we spotted a giant roadside bicycle sculpture, and of course, had to pull over for photos—quirky attractions are our thing.
We really enjoyed the Mammoth Site—it was an impressive stop with so much to take in. The active archaeological digs were fascinating to watch up close, and the short film added depth to the story behind the bones. The explanation of how the mammoths became trapped was honestly a little heartbreaking. Admission came to $28 total—$13 for Kirk with his senior discount, and $15 for Lynn. Definitely worth the visit!
After the museum, we grabbed lunch in town at 309 General and discovered that the Kidney Springs 1922 Gazebo—on Lynn’s Roadside America list—was just a short walk away. On the way, we stumbled upon a hidden gem of a waterfall and took time to explore. The town itself was a delight to stroll through, with its charming old buildings and even an old jail tucked away in the corners of history. It was a bit warmer in Hot Springs with temps in the 80’s but not bad.
A day of mammoth memories, unexpected finds, and small-town charm—all while the blog patiently waits for its next chapter.
Weather – High 76*, Low 51*. Winds 1-14mph.
Traffic – None.
Notable – Mammoth Site, City of Hot Springs, Bike Sculpture
Food – 309 General (Hot Springs) – Kirk’s sandwich was very good. Lynn’s Frito Pie a bit soggy.
photos : Bike sculpture (Pringle, SD)
Off Hwy 89 (South bound). George S. Mickelson Trail.
photos : Hot springs, SD - waterfall
On our walk to find Kidney Springs, we found a small waterfall alongside the Fall River Freedom Trail in Hot Springs. A bit thin and wispy but we like any waterfall! Especially refreshing on a hot day!
photos : other hot springs, sd
Lynn’s Roadside America app flagged the Kidney Springs 1922 Gazebo as a quirky stop along Fall River, known for its mineral-rich water supposedly benefiting internal organs. When we arrived, we were greeted by the sight of a woman filling up five huge 5-gallon jugs—clearly a believer! We didn’t sample the spring ourselves, but it was definitely one of those odd-but-fascinating roadside finds.
We also stumbled upon an old jail from 1888, old rail car and enjoyed the old architecture of the buildings.
On our way home, we drove through Wind Cave National Park through some beautiful winding roads and scenery. Otis had a long day and enjoyed the fresh air and new scents.
Food – 309 General in Hot Springs. Kirk’s sandwich was fantastic (8 second ride sandwich). Their 309 secret sauce was delicious. Lynn’s Frito Pie was not that great as it was quite soggy.
