‘Cold Water Dolphins’ Group Braves Freezing Waters

DULUTH, Minn.– What started off as a curiosity for the cold, has now grown to a group of 1,500 dedicated plungers taking on the icy Lake Superior in Duluth.

The ‘Cold Water Dolphins’ started five years ago, after the group’s leader Loralee Pasley read up on benefits from plunging into cold water.

She said it helps boost immunity, mental health, and stress resilience.

After taking a few dips by herself, she decided to get a group of friends to join.

Since then, the ‘Cold Water Dolphins’ has exploded in members and commitment.

If weather permits, they try to do two plunges a week.

Pasley said, there is a strong camaraderie within the community.

“We have a lot of fun. We sometimes bring music with, we give each other high fives, hugs and support each other. And it’s just really a great group of people to be a part of,” beamed Pasley.

Pasley told FOX 21 the cold-water dips are an escape from the stress that everyday life brings.

“When you’re in the cold water your bills don’t matter, your grief doesn’t matter, your divorce doesn’t matter. Nothing matters except for that moment. So, it’s here now. And we’re with a group of dolphin friends who support each other. And it’s a beautiful place to be,” said Pasley.

The ‘Cold Water Dolphins’ are always accepting new members to join in on the fun.

They have a dedicated Facebook page where they post updates on when and where they’ll meet.