The Crater at Homestead

An experience like no other

Step inside one of Utah’s most iconic natural landmarks. Over 10,000 years in the making, The Crater is a 400-foot-wide, 55-foot-tall beehive-shaped limestone dome, formed when melting snow seeped deep into the earth and emerged as mineral-rich geothermal waters. The Crater has long been a gathering place, first intriguing 19th-century settlers and eventually transforming the land into the valley’s first resort. Today, visitors from across the country experience its warm waters, historic charm, and unique setting.

Hours of Operation:

Monday–Thursday: 11:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Friday–Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Sunday: 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Book Your Experience

Experience The Crater

Therapeutic Soak

The Crater has long been a destination for those seeking relaxation in the geothermal mineral waters. During your 50-minute experience you will learn about the history of The Crater and unwind in the soothing waters surrounded by the 10,000 year old limestone caldera.

Scuba Diving & Certification

The Crater is the only warm water scuba diving destination in the United States. AT 450 ft wide and 65 ft deep, scuba enthusiasts and first-timers alike can explore the depths of of this geological wonder. The Crater offers dive programming including equipment rentals, dive certifications, and refresher courses.

Snorkel Experience

For those who seek a little adventure, guests can add on snorkel gear to any therapeutic soak to take a peek under the surface and explore the limestone walls of the caldera.

History of the Crater

Over the span of millennia, melting snow from the Wasatch Mountains seeped deep into the earth. Two miles below the surface, Earth’s interior heated the water. As it percolated upward, the water picked up minerals that were deposited on the surface, forming the beehive-shaped limestone crater. The hole at the top of the dome lets in sunlight and fresh air, while the interior stays heated by the mineral water at a constant range of 90-96 degrees Fahrenheit.

In 1864, Swiss pioneer Simon Schneitter and his family settled in Midway, Utah, and while farming the land, discovered the massive geothermal “hot pot” that would become The Crater at Homestead. The limestone dome quickly drew local settlers as a gathering place and inspired the creation of the valley’s first resort. By 1886, Schneitter’s Hot Pot Resort opened, beginning a cherished legacy that continues to welcome visitors today as Homestead.

Private Experiences

An Escape Like No Other

Experience the tranquility of The Crater all to yourself — perfect for couples looking for a serene moment, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or unique team activities for corporate retreats.

To book a private experience, please contact: thecrater@homesteadmidwayutah.com

Diving Into What’s Ahead

Leading up to Spring 2027, The Crater experience will be thoughtfully enhanced with updated infrastructure, bringing a refreshed sense of wonder to its historic, geothermal setting.

Whether you float under the stars or dive into the legacy of this natural phenomenon, The Crater offers a restorative, one-of-a-kind experience—right in the center of it all.