About This Area
The Firehole Swim Area, located two miles south of Madison Junction along Firehole Canyon Drive in Yellowstone National Park, offers one of the few designated spots for swimming in the park. This stretch of the Firehole River provides warmer water temperatures, typically ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit in late summer, thanks to geothermal influences upstream. Accessible via a short pullout with vault toilets, it's popular for families and casual swimmers seeking relief from hiking heat. Note that the area is currently closed for the 2025 season due to maintenance and river conditions from prior floods; always check the NPS website or visitor centers for current status. When open, swimming is permitted only during designated hours, usually 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with bathing suits required and no food, drinks, or alcohol allowed to protect water quality and wildlife.
Safety Considerations
Swim at your own risk as no lifeguards are present, per National Park Service protocols. Key risks include sudden water level changes from upstream releases or thunderstorms, slippery algae-covered rocks, and hypothermia even in warmer water if you stay in too long. Thermal bacteria like Naegleria fowleri pose infection risks; avoid submerging your head or swallowing water, as advised by NPS and CDC guidelines. Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash. Strong currents can develop quickly, especially after rain, sweeping swimmers downstream toward rapids. Watch for bison or bears along the canyon rim; maintain 100-yard distance. Water quality tests by park rangers occasionally detect elevated E. coli from upstream geothermal sources or wildlife, so vulnerable individuals should avoid swimming.
Essential Gear
Pack a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) from brands like Stohlquist or NRS, even for strong swimmers. Water shoes such as Keen Newport or Chaco Z/Cloud protect against sharp rocks. Rash guards from Patagonia prevent sunburn and chafing; nose plugs reduce infection risk. Bring a quick-dry microfiber towel from REI and high-SPF waterproof sunscreen. A waterproof first-aid kit with bandages for cuts is essential.