National Parks

Swimming in North America's National Parks

Arches National Park

There is no swimming in the park. The nearby Colorado River may be suitable for swimming in late summer or early fall, but never enter the river without...(more)

Banff and the Canadian Rockies

Banff Centre. Amenities here include a 25-meter swimming pool, a wading pool, an outdoor sundeck, climbing wall, fitness center, gymnasium, and squash...(more)

Banff National Park

Banff Centre. Amenities here include a 25-meter swimming pool, a wading pool, an outdoor sundeck, a climbing wall, fitness center, gymnasium, and squash...(more)

Big Bend National Park

Though it might be tempting to doff sweat-drenched T-shirts in favor of bathing suits, be careful where you take your dips. The Rio Grande has ample waters...(more)

Jasper National Park

Annette Lake and Edith Lake. These two lakes with women's names have sandy beaches and water that reaches the low 70s°F during warm spells. Near Fairmont...(more)

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Drowning is the number-one cause of death in both Sequoia and Kings Canyon parks. Though it is sometimes safe to swim in the parks' rivers in the late...(more)

Yellowstone National Park

Numerous waterways delight kids; however, unless you come during July and August, you'll likely want to forego swimming due to the extremely cold water...(more)

Yosemite National Park

The pools at Curry Village (209/372-8324 www.yosemitepark.com) and Yosemite Lodge (209/372-1250 www.yosemitepark.com) are open to nonguests for $5, late...(more)

Zion National Park

Swimming is allowed in the Virgin River, but be careful of cold water, slippery rock bottoms, and the occasional flash floods whenever it rains. Swimming...(more)