Firehole River Swimming Area

Tourist attraction · Teton County

Firehole River Swimming Area

Tourist attraction · Teton County

Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

Highlights

Dive into Yellowstone's Firehole River Swimming Area for a unique, warm-water experience surrounded by stunning scenery, perfect for a relaxing day out.

Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190 Get directions

nps.gov

@travelleisure

16 Best Swimming Holes in the U.S.

"The country's first national park, Yellowstone is famous for its geothermal springs. Since most of these scalding waters are too hot to swim in, the next best option is the Firehole Swim Area, located along the Firehole River and fed by thermal activity below the surface. The popular swimming area typically opens mid-summer, allowing visitors to enter the bathtub-like waters during designated hours. There are no lifeguards, so visitors will want to keep that in mind for safety and follow the regulations. To reach the location, head to Firehole Canyon Drive, located south of Madison Junction, and follow the route to the swimming location. While it might be tempting, avoid cliff jumping in the area, as it is not only dangerous but also forbidden." - Travel + Leisure Editors

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/nature-travel/america-best-swimming-holes

View Postcard for Firehole River Swimming Area

Anthony J. Bopp

Google

The Firehole River Swimming Area in Yellowstone is a unique and refreshing experience. The warm waters, heated by geothermal springs, create a natural hot tub effect, offering a perfect spot to relax and soak while surrounded by the park's stunning scenery. The river’s gentle current and picturesque surroundings make it a peaceful escape. However, it’s important to note that the area can get crowded during peak times, so arriving early is recommended. Whether you’re looking to cool off or just enjoy the natural beauty of Yellowstone, the Firehole River Swimming Area is definitely worth a visit.

LC 444

Google

This place is closed but there is amazing swimming holes nearby accessed by a steep trail down a cliff by a dirt parking lot.

Iryna Pastavalava

Google

Great place for a nice relaxing picnic after Old Faithful, Upper Geiser Basin, and Grand Prismatic Spring Exploration Day. The swimming area is closed. Though there are plenty of cozy places to enjoy. The water temperature is warm.

Andrea Luna

Google

Firehole river is a MUST see if you are coming to Yellowstone. It’s nature’s best water park. Jumping into the rapids is so FUN ! Life jackets are recommended but not required. Enjoy the lazy river as it floats you down. Kids will be entertained for HOURS. The drive into Firehole canyon is absolutely beautiful. Tons of picture worthy spots. Don’t be turned off by the amount of cars at the swimming hole, there is a small parking lot all the way at the end, or you can park on the street.

James Nielson

Google

Water was comfortable. Not hot but definitely a nice temperature to cool down on a hot summer day. We went around 3 in the afternoon and the road was filled with cars so that we had to park about 80 yards uphill from the stairs that lead down to the water. The road is one way. Once in the river there are a few spots 15 or 20 yards up stream where you can jump off a rock into the river. In these spots the bottom is deep enough that you won't hit the bottom. I took life jackets so I wouldn't worry about my youngest. This place is a nice change from the crowds at Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic. When I go back to Yellowstone this will be a place I visit again for sure.

Randy Murphey

Google

No more swimming here...Closed down because of the number of injuries (and probably fatalities) of people trying to scramble down (or back up) the steep incline from the road. Plan to stop several times to look at the river in the canyon below...Well worth it.

Ganesh Shenoy

Google

An impromptu decision to hike down to the river was the best part of our Yellowstone trip.

YouTube User

Google

If you want to experience the full spectrum of Yellowstone you can swim in the river. However, water is cold.