Firehole River Swimming Area

"It was a quick stop on my way from Yellowstone to Grand Teton NP."

"This is a DO NOT MISS destination of Yellowstone. However, it is currently CLOSED due to nesting Osprey. Information centers and campgrounds amongst the park will have the most up to date hours of operation. They presume it will be closed until next season (may 2024)."

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

"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."

"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."