Firehole Canyon Drive Yellowstone National Park
A stunning one-way scenic drive in Yellowstone featuring Firehole Falls and a unique geothermally heated swimming hole.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds for a swim
Firehole Canyon Drive Yellowstone National Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds for a swim
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning one-way scenic drive in Yellowstone featuring Firehole Falls and a unique geothermally heated swimming hole.
"The Firehole River swimming hole is an unforgettable, naturally heated dip with incredible canyon views!"
🚫 No RVs Allowed
RVs, campers, and buses are prohibited on Firehole Canyon Drive. Plan accordingly!
🏊♀️ Swim Smart
The swimming hole is geothermally heated, but water temps can vary. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Firehole Falls
Along Firehole Canyon Drive
Witness the powerful cascade of Firehole Falls, a stunning natural spectacle along the scenic drive.

Firehole River Swimming Hole
Near the end of Firehole Canyon Drive
Take a refreshing dip in the geothermally heated waters of this unique natural swimming spot.

Scenic Overlooks
Various pull-offs along the drive
Stop at numerous viewpoints for breathtaking vistas of the Firehole River and surrounding canyon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
RV Restrictions
Best Time for a Dip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Lesser-known Yellowstone experiences?
🚫 No RVs Allowed
RVs, campers, and buses are prohibited on Firehole Canyon Drive. Plan accordingly!
🏊♀️ Swim Smart
The swimming hole is geothermally heated, but water temps can vary. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
RV! Firehole Canyon?
🚗 Drive Slowly & Stop Often
This is a scenic drive! Take your time, use pull-offs, and soak in the views.
👟 Wear Water Shoes
The riverbed can be rocky. Water shoes are recommended for comfort at the swimming hole.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No RVs Allowed
RVs, campers, and buses are prohibited on Firehole Canyon Drive. Plan accordingly!
🏊♀️ Swim Smart
The swimming hole is geothermally heated, but water temps can vary. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
🚗 Drive Slowly & Stop Often
This is a scenic drive! Take your time, use pull-offs, and soak in the views.
👟 Wear Water Shoes
The riverbed can be rocky. Water shoes are recommended for comfort at the swimming hole.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique experience of swimming in the geothermally heated Firehole River and the stunning natural beauty of the canyon. The scenic drive itself is a highlight, offering breathtaking views. However, the strict prohibition of RVs and the potential for crowds at the swimming hole are noted drawbacks.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Firehole Canyon Drive is located in the southern part of Yellowstone National Park, west of Old Faithful. Access is typically from Grand Loop Road. Look for the clearly marked entrance.
No, RVs, campers, and buses are prohibited from driving on Firehole Canyon Drive due to its narrowness and sharp turns.
Yes, Firehole Canyon Drive is a one-way loop road, designed for passenger vehicles to enjoy the scenery without the hassle of oncoming traffic.
The speed limit is generally low, around 25 mph, to allow visitors to safely enjoy the views and pull over at designated spots. Always adhere to posted signs.
Firehole Canyon Drive is typically open seasonally, usually from late May or early June through October, depending on snow and road conditions. Check the official Yellowstone National Park website for current status.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Firehole Canyon Drive is within Yellowstone National Park. You only need your standard park entrance pass to access it.
The drive is generally open during daylight hours when the park is accessible. Specific opening and closing times can vary seasonally.
The fee is for Yellowstone National Park entry, not specifically for Firehole Canyon Drive. The pass covers all park attractions.
Tickets are for park entry and can be purchased at park entrances or online in advance. No separate booking is needed for the drive itself.
While the park gates may close, Firehole Canyon Drive is typically accessible during daylight hours. However, it's best to check official park hours for any restrictions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic viewpoints, hike short trails, and swim in the geothermally heated swimming hole. It's a great spot for photography and appreciating nature.
The swimming hole is geothermally heated, so water temperatures can vary. Be aware of submerged rocks and currents. Always supervise children closely.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the main parking area near the swimming hole and at some viewpoints.
While less common than in other park areas, you might spot birds, small mammals, or even bison in the wider vicinity. Keep a safe distance.
Some viewpoints and parking areas are accessible, but the terrain can be uneven. The swimming hole access may be challenging. Check with park rangers for specific accessibility information.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints overlooking Firehole Falls and the river bends offer stunning photographic opportunities. The swimming hole area also provides unique shots.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in all national parks, including Yellowstone, for safety and wildlife protection.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive canyon views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance the water and sky.
Capture the steam rising from the water, especially in cooler temperatures. Experiment with different angles to show the scale and the surrounding landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While RVs are prohibited, families in standard vehicles will find the one-way loop easy to navigate. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The drive is a great way to break up longer days of exploring other parts of the park, offering a refreshing change of pace and a chance for kids to burn off some energy in a beautiful natural setting.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Be mindful of the vehicle restrictions – this drive is best suited for cars and motorcycles. The drive is relatively short, making it an ideal addition to a day exploring the geyser basins. The chance to take a dip in the natural, geothermally heated swimming hole adds a unique adventurous element to the road trip experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geothermal Waters
This geothermal influence also shapes the landscape, creating mineral deposits and contributing to the unique ecosystem of the canyon. The drive itself offers glimpses into this dynamic geological area, with steam vents and hot springs visible in the distance. It's a constant reminder of the powerful forces at play beneath the surface of Yellowstone.
Navigating Firehole Canyon Drive with Vehicles
When driving, remember that this is a scenic drive, not a thoroughfare. The speed limit is intentionally kept low to encourage visitors to stop at the numerous viewpoints and appreciate the canyon's beauty. Take your time, use the designated pull-offs to let faster traffic pass if needed, and be prepared for potential wildlife sightings. The drive offers stunning views of Firehole Falls and the winding river, making it a highlight for many visitors.
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