Experiencing Homestead Crater, the Only Geothermal Springs in the Continental US

Utah, I discovered, is full of unique beautiful destinations. But even in a state with so many bucket list-worthy places, Homestead Crater is definitely in a league of its own. Keep reading to learn more about Homestead Crater so you can plan your own visit.

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What Is Homestead Crater

In the city of Midway, Utah is the Homestead Resort where the Homestead Crater is located. The Crater is a geothermal spring hidden within a 55-foot tall beehive-shaped limestone rock. The Crater was formed over a period of 10,000 years. Snow from nearby Wasatch Mountains melted and seeped deep within the earth, about 2 miles below the surface. The earth’s interior heated the water, returning it to the surface and picking up minerals that were then deposited on the surface. Eventually it formed this volcano-shaped limestone deposit.

The water is 65 feet deep. At the bottom, the crater is made of a layer of silt up to 14 feet deep. Water springs out of the bedrock at a constant 90-96 degrees and at a rate of 135,000 gallons a day.

There is a hole at the top of the dome that lets in sunlight and fresh air while the interior stays heated by the warm water. As you can see from the picture, it is fairly dark inside the crater. Although there are lights above, they are dimmed during each session resulting in a certain eeriness to the place. I won’t lie: I was a bit apprehensive getting in the water. My daughter took some convincing as well. Eventually my eyes started to adjust to the darkness and I started to relax and enjoy the experience.

Activities Offered at Homestead Crater

Mineral Soak

At the surface, the water is clear and of a pretty blue color. It is also full of minerals. There is a dedicated area off the dock for guests to enjoy a relaxing and therapeutic soak. After several days of hiking, my muscles were tense and sore and I could definitely feel them relax in the warm waters.

Swimming inside Homestead Crater

The base of the Crater is 400 feet wide and is large enough to actually swim. Furthermore, since capacity is extremely limited, guests have enough room to spread out and enjoy a good swim.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is another option offered for guests. Honestly, I don’t really see the point as there is nothing to see in the water unless you want to snorkel around the walls of the Crater or to see the divers below you.

Scuba Diving

Believe it or not, Utah is a scuba destination. Indeed Homestead Crater is popular among divers due to the fact that it is the only warm scuba diving destination in the continental United States. There is even an entire underwater dive course for divers interested in obtaining their open water scuba diving certifications.

SUP Yoga

Park City Adventures offers Stand Up Paddleboard yoga classes. You must register directly on their website. SUP yoga classes are offered year-round, several times a week. You can add sunrise/evening hiking or snowshoeing to your yoga experience.

Tours

If you don’t want to get wet, you can still access the Crater as part of a self-guided tour. On your tour, you will also learn about the history, geology and archaeology of this unique place. Guests have access to the top of the crater to look down.

Things To Know Before Visiting Homestead Crater

Where to Stay

You don’t have to be guests of Homestead Resort to have access to the crater, although it would be very convenient. Depending on your itinerary, you could stay in Park City 30 minutes away, or even in Salt Lake City, about an hour away. Options in Park City include the Marriott’s Mountainside, a great hotel with lots of amenities (free parking, ski-in/ski-out access, pool, sauna, hot tub) and the Best Western Plus Landmark Inn, a more affordable option but with great amenities like full hot breakfast still. If coming from Salt Lake City, I recommend staying downtown at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City, a modern-looking hotel centrally located.

Address & Driving Directions to Homestead Crater

Homestead Resort’s address is 700 North Homestead Dr, Midway, UT 84049. The resort is about one hour south east of Salt Lake City and 30 minutes south of Park City. When you get to the resort, follow the sign for the Crater and park your car in the visitor’s parking. Then make your way to the check-in building first. You will need to sign liability waivers (best to come 15 minutes early to do this) You can then go to the Crater’s entrance.

Hours of Operation

The Crater is open 7 days a week, year-round. They open noon to 8 pm Monday through Thursday. Weekend hours are 10 am to 8 pm. They close early at 4 pm on Sundays.

Tickets

The Crater is open to the general public (not just resort guests) by reservation only. All reservations must be made by phone at 435-657-3840. Timed tickets prices vary depending on the experience you choose: 40-min soak/swim sessions are $13 weekdays and $16 on the weekends; 40-min snorkeling sessions are $18-$21; and one hour scuba diving is $22 to $27. You can rent snorkel and scuba gear at an additional price.

People of all ages can enjoy this experience although it is not recommended for pregnant women as well as people with certain health conditions. Everyone must wear life jackets regardless of swimming abilities. Tickets price includes the life jackets.

What To Bring to Homestead Crater

You will need to bring your own towel. Bring a water bottle as it is important you stay well hydrated. There are no showers, only a couple changing areas and a few lockers (need your own padlock). There are open shelves for you to put your towels and other items. I recommend only bringing a few personal items in with you, nothing valuable. Restrooms are located in a different building near the check-in area so make sure to plan accordingly.

If you like unique experiences that won’t break the bank, definitely give Homestead Crater a try. You won’t be disappointed! Check out the links below for more Utah travel ideas and please subscribe to the blog for more travel inspiration around the country.

Thank you for reading xx

FOR MORE KID-FRIENDLY UTAH TRAVEL IDEAS:

• Zion: ultimate guide to hiking the Narrows with kids
• Bryce Canyon: the best hike at Bryce Canyon National Park
• Mystic Hot Springs: Mystic Hot Springs, a unique destination in the Utah desert