Homestead Crater Hot Springs

## Overview Homestead Crater Hot Springs in Midway, Utah, is one of the most unique geothermal features in the western United States. Unlike a typical open-air hot spring, the Homestead Crater is a massive, beehive-shaped limestone dome — roughly 55 feet tall and 400 feet in circumference — that conceals a hidden pool of naturally heated mineral water inside. The dome formed over thousands of years as mineral-rich hot water deposited layer upon layer of travertine limestone, gradually building the hollow, cathedral-like chamber visitors can explore today. The water inside the crater maintains a year-round temperature of approximately 90–96°F (32–36°C), fed by geothermal activity deep beneath the Wasatch Mountains. A tunnel was carved through the rock wall decades ago to provide walk-in access to the pool, which reaches depths of up to 65 feet — making it one of the only warm-water scuba diving destinations in the continental United States. This is a **paid hot spring facility** operated as part of the Homestead Resort (now known as Crater Springs). The water here is **not suitable for drinking**. Activities available include swimming, soaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving, all within the dramatic interior of the limestone dome. ## Directions Homestead Crater is located on the north side of Midway, Utah, a small town in the Heber Valley of Wasatch County. 1. From Salt Lake City, head east on I-80 through Parley's Canyon. 2. Take the exit for US-40 East toward Heber City. 3. In Heber City, turn west onto UT-113 (also known as Midway Lane) toward Midway. 4. Once in Midway, follow signs north toward Homestead Resort. The road becomes North Homestead Drive. 5. The Crater is located at **700 North Homestead Drive, Midway, UT 84049**. 6. GPS coordinates: **40.522359, -111.484456** US Route 222 can also be used to reach the Midway area. Parking is available at the resort. ## What to Expect Upon arrival, you'll check in at the resort facility and be directed to the crater entrance. A short tunnel cut through the limestone wall leads into the dome's interior, where a wooden deck and staircase descend to the warm, crystal-clear pool below. The acoustics inside the dome are remarkable — the vaulted rock ceiling amplifies every sound, giving the space an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Natural light filters in through a small opening at the top of the dome. The pool itself is deep enough for certified scuba divers to explore, with visibility that can reach 50 feet or more on a good day. Snorkelers and swimmers share the shallower areas. Sessions are timed, so expect a structured visit rather than a leisurely all-day soak. ### Rates & Hours (as reported — verify before visiting) **Monday – Thursday:** 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM - Swim/Soak (40 minutes): $15 - Snorkeling (40 minutes): $18 - Scuba Diving (1 hour): $22 **Friday – Saturday:** 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM - Swim/Soak (40 minutes): $18 - Snorkeling (40 minutes): $21 - Scuba Diving (1 hour): $27 **Sunday:** 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (same rates as Friday–Saturday) *Prices and hours are subject to change. It's strongly recommended to check the resort's official website or call ahead before visiting, especially during holidays or peak season.* Reservations are generally recommended, as sessions can fill up — particularly on weekends. Towels and basic gear may be available for rent on-site. Scuba divers should bring proof of certification. The facility is family-friendly, though younger children should be supervised closely given the pool's depth.