Firehole Swimming Area

Overview

This is Yellowstone’s sanctioned river swim spot when conditions allow: a short walk down a staircase into the Firehole River, set in a beautiful basalt-walled canyon along Firehole Canyon Drive. The water often feels warmer than a typical mountain river because nearby hydrothermal runoff mixes in.

Current Status (2025)

The swim area is closed for the 2025 season due to high water and strong currents. In many years, it remains closed until mid-summer; in heavy runoff years it may not open at all. Always check the park’s current conditions before you plan on swimming.

What to Expect (when open)

• Access: Wood steps lead to a rocky shoreline and shallow entry. Expect slick rocks—water shoes help.
• Facilities: Two vault toilets; no lifeguards. No changing rooms or drinking water.
• Parking: Limited and often full; expect turnover and patience on busy afternoons.

Rules at a Glance (when open)

• Daytime only; closed at night. Bathing suits required.
• No food, drink, or alcohol in the swim area; no cans, bottles, or plastic containers.
• No soap or shampoo (including biodegradable).
• No diving/jumping from cliffs or trees.
• No rafts, tubes, noodles, or similar toys. Water wings are allowed; life jackets are recommended.

Safety and Wildlife

Rivers here are cold, fast, and deceptively powerful—swim at your own risk and keep kids within arm’s reach. To reduce illness risk from natural waters, don’t swallow river water, avoid submerging your head (or use a nose plug), and don’t swim if you’re sick. Bison and elk can frequent river corridors; give them space and never approach or block their path.

Nearby Scenery

Even when swimming is closed, Firehole Canyon Drive is worth the detour for canyon views and waterfalls from roadside pullouts. It’s a quick, scenic loop just south of Madison Junction.

Best Time to Visit

• When open, aim for late morning to mid-afternoon for the warmest water—but that’s also peak crowd time.
• Weekday mornings offer easier parking, though the water feels cooler.
• Late-day light is great for canyon photos, but the area closes at night, so watch the time.