Homestead Caldera

Todd Sain Sr.

8 years ago

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Photographer: Ken Lund
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Homestead Caldera Facts

First of all, one fact about the amazing Homestead Caldera stands out among the rest, due to the sheer level of incredulity. That’s the astounding fact that this gorgeous location ranks as perhaps one of the most interesting geological features most of us have never heard of.
Yet the great majority of local residents know the fabulous feature as simply The Crater, rather than its official name. Both names remain quite deceptive, however. That holds true due to the fact that this marvel of Nature technically qualifies as neither a caldera nor a crater.
Furthermore, the site also serves as the source of a minor mystery. Settlers and miners first officially discovered the awesome geological wonder in the 19th century. But, it presently remains unknown if Native Americans indigenous to its area ever knew of its existence.
In addition, the startlingly lovely feature also presently sits on privately owned land. Not surprisingly, however, the current owners of the property subsequently turned the area into a comparatively popular tourist attraction.
Finally, this virtually unknown, and quite literally hidden site also holds a singular distinction. That’s because, in addition to everything else, it represents the only warm water destination for scuba diving found on its continent.

Jeita Grotto Melissani Cave Enchanted Well

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Photographer: Araceli Arroyo
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Homestead Caldera Physical Description

Firstly, geological evidence indicates that Homestead Caldera formed nearly 10,000 years ago. Furthermore, it constitutes only one of many found throughout the region. The impressive dome itself measures roughly 55 ft (16.7 m) in height. That dome also spans roughly 400 ft (122 m) in diameter.

Secondly, the marvelous structure remains mainly composed of limestone, and formed gradually over time. This remarkable formation occurred via the depositing of minerals from the geothermal spring. Subsequently, as a result of internal pressure, the newly-formed dome itself pushed outward.

A relatively small hole in the top of the dome allows sunlight to filter in naturally. Additionally, for tourist purposes, a tunnel was drilled into the side of the dome to allow better access. The geothermal activity also maintains a steady water temperature of between 90-96 F (32-36 C).

Homestead Caldera Location, History, and Nature

Perhaps most notably, the magnificent Homestead Caldera formed near what now constitutes the city of Midway, Utah, in the United States, in North America. To the surprise of many, the magnificent caldera actually represents a geothermal spring contained inside a naturally formed dome.

Additionally, an ongoing archaeological project works to retrieve objects left behind over time by thoughtless humans from the silt. These include coins and antique firearms. Those, and numerous other objects, are retrieved from the silt deposits that line the bottom of the hot spring.

Also, the water found at the site has a typical,and somewhat surprising, depth of nearly 65 ft (19.8 m). Meanwhile the silt itself measures roughly 14 ft (4.3 m) deep in places. This extreme depth makes locating, not to mention retrieving, the various paraphernalia difficult.

Fortunately, however, the owners have committed to every effort to return the site to its natural pristine condition. Those same individuals have also committed to exploring the history surrounding the site, as well.