Star Plunge - Hot Springs Pools in Wyoming
Written By: Sarah Reish / Photos by: Star Plunge
One of the most invigorating Wyoming activities is taking a dip in a hot spring pool on a cool fall or winter morning. This is exactly what we did while in Thermopolis this month. It was my first experience in a hot springs pool and it was a nostalgic return to Star Plunge hot springs pool for Steve who grew up vacationing there.
The history & facts
The first time Star Plunge opened to the public was in 1900 and originally was a canvas covered pool. It is in Wyomings first state park, Hot Springs State Park which was founded in 1897. The water features 27 different minerals and is chemical free.
The amenities
Whether this is last minute and you need to purchase a bathing suit or you’re heading in for your morning workout before a soak, Star Plunge has everything you could need. The locker rooms include lockers, restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. You can also rent bathing suits and towels. The gift store also includes sunscreen and snacks.
The pools
The indoor pool is quite large and includes a deeper area and a more shallow area. The water is kept at 94-98 degrees. There is also an indoor hot tub pool that is kept at 104 degrees. The pools look to be almost carved out of the mountain giving them an organic feel. The outdoor pool has a zero entry ramp so you can wade into the water. This large outdoor pool is kept at 90-94 degrees for those looking to enjoy fresh air no matter the weather. The outdoor hot tub is also kept at a relaxing 104 degrees.
The vapor/steam cave
This cave is found on the back wall of the indoor pool area. Carved into a mountain is a cave featuring a hot spring bubbling up creating a steam cave where you can relax, detox, and sweat out impurities. After an invigorating sweat we recommend heading to the outdoor pool for a swim.
The slides & jumping area
As I mentioned earlier Steve grew up coming here with his family and cousins and spent many hours on the slides and jumping tower. This is a family friendly hot springs pool and the kids will have plenty to keep them busy. There is an indoor slide that towers 60 feet in the air, a 500 foot long outdoor slide that twists and turns down the mountain (open between Memorial Day and Labor Day), and a small outdoor slide that is perfect for even the youngest swimmers. The outdoor pool features a jumping tower and a basketball hoop ensuring kids and adults alike hours of fun. During our visit Steve checked out all of the slides that were open and came to the conclusion that he had more resiliency and energy as a child.
The experience
We had a blast relaxing in the hot tub pool and swimming in the outdoor pool in the cool morning hours. The staff member we worked with was quite friendly and helpful. We definitely think the hot spring pools need to be on your itinerary if you are traveling through Wyoming.
The details:
Open daily 9 am - 9 pm
Location: 115 Big Springs Drive Thermopolis, WY 82443
Fees: Adults (5 to 64) $15.50
Children (4 and under) $7.00
Seniors (65 and over) $12.50
Hit The Road!
Spend the day relaxing or bring the family for a day trip adventure! We felt the Star Plunge was perfect for any age and any level swimmer. Tag us in your social media posts, @LiveWYldMag and use #LiveWYld
