Firehole Canyon Drive Guide
Firehole Canyon Drive: A Scenic Detour to a Refreshing Swim Guide
Escape the crowds and discover the hidden gem that is Firehole Canyon Drive! This short, one-way road offers a scenic detour off the main Grand Loop Road, leading you through a narrow canyon carved by the Firehole River. The highlight of the drive is the Firehole Canyon Swimming Area, a popular spot for a refreshing dip in the river during the summer months. It's a perfect way to cool off and experience Yellowstone from a different perspective. The Firehole River carved this canyon over thousands of years, creating dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations. The water in the Firehole River is relatively warm due to geothermal activity upstream, making it a pleasant swimming temperature during the summer. The Firehole Canyon Drive was constructed to provide access to this unique swimming area and showcase the beauty of the canyon. The main activity on Firehole Canyon Drive is, of course, swimming! The Firehole Canyon Swimming Area has a designated area for swimming, with lifeguards on duty during peak season. Even if you don't plan to swim, the drive itself is worth it for the scenic views. There are several pullouts along the road where you can stop and take photos of the canyon and the river. Remember that the road is one-way, so you'll need to continue to the end to rejoin the Grand Loop Road.
Transportation
Firehole Canyon Drive is located off the Grand Loop Road, south of Madison Junction. It's a one-way road, so you'll need to enter from the north end. Look for the signs indicating the turnoff. The free park shuttle system does not directly service Firehole Canyon Drive, so personal vehicle is the only option.