The Best Swimming Holes in Utah

Written by Kirstin Harrington
Updated: August 16, 2023
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The steep mountains, scorching deserts, and numerous canyons in Utah are well recognized. You may not anticipate that there are a surprising number of swimming holes in Utah, including lakes, slot canyon cascades, and hot springs. These are perfect for trips during the off-season. 

If you live in Utah, you’re going to be looking for summertime ways to stay cool. Fortunately, regardless of how barren the environment may seem, there are several locations throughout the state where you can get outside, dive in, and cool down.

Keep in mind that dam and river conditions vary considerably in the desert, so look out for any unanticipated boulders or rubble before entering. Check the weather before going to any slot canyons or semi-ephemeral rivers because flash floods are also frequent in the area. 

Homestead Crater

Want to go underwater in a warm spring? You only need to look at Midway, Utah. A pleasant, geothermally heated pool is housed in the intriguing natural structure known as The Homestead Crater. Minerals in the bubbling water contributed to the formation of a cone with a volcanic morphology. 

Tourists adore taking dips, swimming, and diving in the pleasantly warm water, which is 90 to 96 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. Additionally, you can ascend to the dome’s summit to see the pool from above. 

The cost is the only negative aspect of this experience. For a 40-minute soak, expect to pay approximately $15. The nearest town is Midway if you’re looking for a place to stay or a bite to eat during your trip! 

Toquerville Falls

Experience Toquerville Falls for yourself. In the sweltering heat, the two-step cascade on La Verkin Creek in St. George is a spectacular location. Even though the upper falls are a gorgeously intertwined cascade, they will be a little bit smaller if they have yet to receive any fresh rain. 

The second tier begins with a modest flow and culminates with a dive into a substantial pool. Based on the season, there might be a stairway leading from the pool to the upper tier’s top base. However, due to seasonal variations in water levels, exercise caution before cliff jumping.

There will be some work involved in reaching this swimming spot. Over 5.5 miles of the trail are a rugged road. Even with the correct equipment, such as an off-road vehicle or high-clearance truck, it’s still rough, whether you drive or walk there.

Lower Calf Creek Falls

Calf Creek Falls is a stunning and mesmerizing waterfall located in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The big lagoon at the base of the 130-foot waterfall is where it ends. After a strenuous walk, spending the day at this calm and shaded swimming hole in Utah is fantastic. 

The three miles long, level and moderately difficult walk to the falls depart from Calf Creek Campground. Give heed when the trail becomes a little weak because it can occasionally be a little muddy. 

To understand more about the history, geography, and ecology of the region, pick up a pamphlet at the trailhead. Around halfway up, spend some time looking for the pictographs towering on the canyon wall.

Lower Calf Creek

After a strenuous walk, spending the day at this calm and shaded swimming hole in Utah is fantastic. 

©Kris Wiktor/Shutterstock.com

Mona Rope Swings

Mona Rope Swings is a well-known swimming hole in Utah close to the greater Salt Lake City region, and it is situated at the intriguing Burraston Ponds near Mona. A handful of great shade trees, a quick hiking route, and the rope swings are all provided by the ponds. Although there could be as many as five ropes, most often there are at least one or two. 

Ensure the ropes are in an excellent state, confirm the water is deep enough to plunge, and be prepared to let go of the rope before swinging back into the tree, these are some wise things to keep in mind before swinging away. This is a well-known location due to its accessibility, so you’ll have lots of people to support you as you leap off into the water! 

Red Reef Natural Water Slides

Red Cliff Recreation Area is a little nature reserve located close to Hurricane. This Utah swimming area requires a steep climb and the use of Moki steps to access the natural rock water cascades, which necessitates a sense of thrill to get there.

The swimming conditions in the area might be unpredictable because water levels are influenced by current rain and water flow. Although the waters will be a bit chillier than at other seasons of the year, spring is typically the greatest time to visit.

The initial lagoon and cascade are the most accessible, while the natural water slides require another ascent. You’ll need to use the rocky steps and practice some rope climbing as you climb. Head out on the Red Reef trail away from the camping area Cash is preferred because parking costs $5.

Summary of the Best Swiming Holes in Utah

NumberSwimming Hole
1Homestead Crater
2Toquerville Falls
3Lower Calf Creek Falls
4Mona Rope Swings
5Red Reef Natural Water Slides

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Base Camp Vegas/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Kirstin is a writer at A-Z Animals primarily covering animals, news topics, fun places, and helpful tips. Kirstin has been writing on a variety of topics for over five years. She has her real estate license, along with an associates degree in another field. A resident of Minnesota, Kirstin treats her two cats (Spook and Finlay) like the children they are. She never misses an opportunity to explore a thrift store with a coffee in hand, especially if it’s a cold autumn day!

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