‘Cool swimming holes in BLANK,’ is a standard search in my Google machine so my trip to South Dakota was no exception. Tucked along the ridge line of the Black Hills is a sweet, secluded swimming hole that only the most adventurous will enjoy. Those who reach ‘Hippie Hole’ will be rewarded with a liquid oasis to escape the summer heat - but not without dedication and drive - literally.
THE DRIVE TO HIPPIE HOLE
Start south from Rapid City on a trek that states ‘35 minutes’ on Google Maps. I hit the touristy Bear Country USA first, but quickly found myself on the road less traveled. Within one turn off the main drag, I was submerged by beautiful bellowing pines reminiscent of New Hampshire forests - and questioning why I was only passing four-wheelers. That was until the nav demanded a left turn and the pavement turned to dirt. This turn tacking on quite a bit of time as I bumped and maneuvered my way up a winding road.
In a rental in the summer months, I was technically a-okay but as a solo female driver, I’d be lying if I didn’t admit to needing to talk myself out of turning around quite a few times. Let’s just say I would NOT recommend making the drive to Hippie Hole if it has recently rained and you’re in a rental car.
After chanting “we’re fine we’re fine we’re fine” to myself and cranking up calming tunes for the few mile trek, I parked probably 500 feet before the official pin drop destination. I was ready to get out of the Dodge Journey and use my own two feet. It’s wild how doing something for the first time can be so terrifying and rewarding at the same time.
THE CLIMB TO HIPPIE HOLE
Once parked, the intro path was relatively flat and lined with flowers and high grasses. According to The Outbound, this hike is a quick .3 mile out and back. Ummmmmm okay. I was not mentally prepared for the downward, soft-core rock climbing session. Luckily, I came physically prepared with hiking boots (which I’d one hundred percent recommend) to stay stable as I trekked along the boulders.
Once you make it to the bottom of the gorge, you’ll be able to appreciate the beauty of the dramatic landscape. You’ll continue down river and walk along a few different rushing waterfalls but don’t stop too soon (or do because it’s incredibly peaceful.) The trail dead ends into the hidden oasis of Hippie Hole complete with high schoolers sipping cheap beer and pups nervously watching over their cliff leaping owners.
Now your final task is simple: bask in the glory of this secluded South Dakota swimming hole and appreciate the adventure it took to get there. Don’t forget to bring along a sub and some (better) beers to sip on to make the water feel all the better.