Did you know?
The only warm water SCUBA diving destination in the continental United States is in… Utah.
The Homestead Crater is a geothermically heated pool inside a limestone dome on the property of the Homestead Resort. The pool is 35 feet deep, and the water is 90-96 degrees Fahrenheit, year-round. Visitors are invited to see, soak or SCUBA dive in the Homestead Crater.
Here's what you need to know before you go.
See
You can take a self-guided “tour” of the Homestead Crater for free. We have done this a couple of times when visiting the Ice Castles in the winter. You can go pretty much anytime it is open, but expect a short wait if the tunnel is crowded.
It'll take about 5-15 minutes to see the Homestead Crater. There is a tunnel, floating dock and geothermal pool inside a natural limestone dome. Seeing the Crater is worthwhile if you're at the Homestead Resort, and it won't take you long.
Related: What to Expect at Utah Olympic Park in Park City
Soak
This is what we did at the Homestead Crater. It was a cool February evening, but it felt like we were swimming in a giant bath tub. Paddling around in the deep, warm mineral water was a unique experience, and my kids loved it. On one side of the dock, a floating “hot tub” has been built. Here, swimmers can take off their life jackets and sit on benches in the water for a relaxing soak.
We tried snorkeling, but found that there wasn't much to see except SCUBA divers. It was a good opportunity for my kids to practice, but otherwise, I would not recommend paying extra for snorkeling gear.
All swimmers and snorkelers are required to wear life jackets, except in the “hot tub” area. Life jackets are included in the cost of your soak. All children are welcome. Soak sessions are 40 minutes, though you may be allowed to swim or soak longer if it isn't busy. We swam for about an hour, and it was more than enough time for us.
SCUBA
SCUBA diving is the main attraction at the Homestead Crater. There were two beginner SCUBA classes happening on the Friday night we were there. These calm, warm mineral waters attract divers from throughout the U.S. Classes and sessions for beginners and experienced divers are available, with equipment.
Good to Know
Where: 700 North Homestead Drive, Midway, Utah. The dome and parking are easy to find. The check-in and restrooms are in a separate building nearby.
When: Year-round, 7 days per week. Reservations are required. See the website for details.
Be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in and sign liability releases. Weekdays are less crowded and less expensive.
How Much:
- See: FREE
- Soak: starts at $16 per person
- Discounts may be available through Homestead Resort Crater packages or Groupon. Click the button below to check for offers on Groupon now.
How Long: About one hour
Amenities: Changing stalls, life jackets, SCUBA and snorkel equipment rental. Small lockers are available, but you need to bring your own padlock. Unsecured shelves are available to hold your towels, shoes and clothing.
Storage space is limited, and the changing stalls are small. I recommend bringing as few personal items into the Homestead Crater as possible. Leave valuables at home or in your hotel safe.
Restrooms are available in a separate building, near where you check in. In the winter, it will be a cold, wet walk, so be sure to use them before you get in!
Website: www.homesteadresort.com
Disclosure: We received complimentary admission to the Homestead Crater for the purposes of review. As always, all opinions are my own.
Featured photo credit: Homestead Resort
Fiorella Cútolo
Hello, Im going to park city in december and I want to go to see and swim in this place, its necessary to stay in the resort? or you just can grab a taxi, pay, swim and go back? Thank you!!
Allison
Hi Fiorella! You do not need to stay at the Homestead Resort to swim in the Homestead Crater. Reservations or walk-up sessions are available.
Lisa Snow
Are reservations required
Allison
Great question, Lisa. Reservations are recommended, if not required. Space is limited at the Homestead Crater. Call 435-657-3840 or email thehomesteadcrater@gmail.com for reservations and additional information.
Carol Heller
What is the best time to visit the crater pool?
Allison
The Crater is open year round and is naturally heated, so you can go anytime that is best for you. Weekdays are a little less expensive and probably less crowded than weekends. It’s warm inside the crater (like an indoor pool). For me, a warm summer day would not be the best time to go – except maybe for lighter crowds. We were there on a winter evening and it was fun.