Pokémon FireRed & LeafGreen: All HM Locations Guide

Hey Pokémon Trainers! Ever felt stuck in FireRed and LeafGreen because you're missing a crucial HM? You're not alone! To truly master the Kanto region, you'll need all seven Hidden Machines (HMs). These moves aren't just for battling; they're essential for navigating the world, accessing new areas, and ultimately, catching 'em all! This guide will walk you through exactly how to obtain each HM in Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen, making your journey smoother and more complete. So, grab your Poké Balls and let’s dive in!

What are HMs and Why Do You Need Them?

Okay, before we jump into the nitty-gritty of where to find each HM, let’s quickly recap what HMs are and why they’re so important in Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen. Hidden Machines (HMs) are special moves that your Pokémon can learn, and unlike regular TMs (Technical Machines), HMs can be used both in and out of battle. This is the key difference! While TMs are one-time use items that teach a move that's primarily used for battle, HMs are reusable and are required to overcome obstacles in the environment. Think of them as your key to unlocking the full potential of the game world!

In FireRed and LeafGreen, HMs allow you to do things like cut down small trees, surf across bodies of water, fly to previously visited towns, move heavy boulders, illuminate dark caves, smash rocks, and even ascend waterfalls. These abilities aren't just helpful; they're absolutely necessary for progressing through the game, accessing certain areas, and catching specific Pokémon. Imagine trying to complete your Pokédex without Surf or Waterfall – it's simply impossible! Plus, some HMs like Fly can save you a ton of time by allowing you to quickly travel between locations, which is a godsend when you're trying to hatch eggs or grind for levels. Navigating the world in Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen is a significant part of the adventure, and the strategic use of HMs adds depth to that experience. Whether it's clearing a path through a dense forest with Cut, or crossing vast oceans with Surf, each HM opens up new possibilities and challenges. This ensures that the game remains engaging and exciting as you explore every nook and cranny of the Kanto region. So, with all that in mind, let's get to the good stuff – finding these essential items!

HM01 Cut: Slicing Through Obstacles

First up, let’s talk about HM01 Cut. This is one of the earliest HMs you can obtain, and it’s crucial for clearing those pesky little trees that block your path in certain areas. Trust me, you'll run into these a lot! Getting Cut is relatively straightforward, and it's an early-game HM that makes a significant difference in your exploration capabilities.

To get HM01 Cut, you'll need to head to the S.S. Anne, a cruise ship docked in Vermilion City. But before you can even board the ship, you'll need to get the S.S. Ticket. Don't worry, it's not too hard to get! Head north from Vermilion City to Route 6 and enter the building which is the entrance to the Saffron City area. A guard is blocking the path, but if you talk to Bill the Pokémon Collector, he will give you the S.S. Ticket, granting you access to the S.S. Anne. You'll find Bill in a house on the northern tip of Route 25 after navigating through Route 24. Bill can be located by progressing through Nugget Bridge and traversing a series of trainer battles.

Once you have the S.S. Ticket, make your way back to Vermilion City and board the S.S. Anne. This is where things get a little maze-like, but don’t worry, just follow these steps. On board the ship, you'll encounter several trainers eager to battle, so make sure your team is ready for a few challenges. Navigate through the ship, battling trainers and exploring rooms until you find your way to the Captain's room. The Captain is feeling seasick, and after speaking with him, you'll need to rub his back to help him feel better (it's a little weird, I know!). As a reward for your kindness, the Captain will give you HM01 Cut. This is a pivotal moment in your journey, as it opens up new paths and possibilities for exploration.

Now that you have Cut, you can teach it to a Pokémon that can learn it (like Bulbasaur, Ivysaur, Venusaur, Charmander, Charmeleon, Charizard, Squirtle, Wartortle, Blastoise, or many others). Once you have a Pokémon that knows Cut, you can use it outside of battle to chop down those small trees that block your way. This will allow you to access new areas, find hidden items, and progress further in the game. Remember, Cut is not only useful for exploration but can also be a handy Normal-type attack in battles, especially early in the game. Getting Cut early is a game-changer, making your journey much smoother and more enjoyable.

HM02 Fly: Soaring Through the Skies

Alright, let's talk about HM02 Fly, which is arguably one of the most convenient HMs in the game. Imagine being able to instantly travel to any town you've previously visited – talk about a timesaver! Fly allows you to do just that, making backtracking and exploring the Kanto region a breeze.

To get your hands on HM02 Fly, you'll need to head to Celadon City. This bustling city is located west of Saffron City and is home to the Celadon Department Store, the Game Corner, and other exciting locations. However, before you can fully enjoy the city, you'll need to rescue the President of the Pokémon Fan Club. You can find him at the west of Celadon City.

Once inside, talk to the woman sitting near the table. This kind lady is the one who will bestow upon you the precious HM02 Fly. This generous gift is your ticket to soaring through the skies, making travel across the Kanto region incredibly convenient. Fly is an absolute game-changer, saving you countless hours of walking and allowing you to quickly return to towns to heal your Pokémon, buy items, or complete side quests. Imagine the freedom of being able to zip back to Viridian City to stock up on Potions after a tough battle, or instantly returning to Cerulean City to challenge a Gym Leader you previously skipped. The possibilities are endless!

But Fly isn't just about convenience; it's also essential for accessing certain areas and completing your Pokédex. Some locations are only reachable by flying, making Fly a mandatory HM for any serious Pokémon Trainer. Plus, Fly is a powerful Flying-type move in battle, adding another strategic option to your team. Having a Pokémon that knows Fly is like having a secret weapon in your arsenal, both inside and outside of battle. So, make sure to teach Fly to a Pokémon that can learn it, and get ready to experience the Kanto region from a whole new perspective!

HM03 Surf: Riding the Waves

Next up, we have HM03 Surf, which is absolutely essential for traversing bodies of water. Without Surf, large portions of the Kanto region remain inaccessible, so this HM is a must-have for any aspiring Pokémon Master. Surfing allows you to explore islands, reach hidden areas, and encounter Water-type Pokémon that you simply can't find anywhere else. It's a game-changer in terms of exploration and is vital for completing your Pokédex.

To obtain HM03 Surf, you'll need to head to the Safari Zone, located in Fuchsia City. The Safari Zone is a unique area where you can catch Pokémon using Safari Balls, and it's home to a variety of rare and powerful creatures. Before you can get your hands on Surf, you'll need to navigate the Safari Zone and reach a specific area where the HM is hidden.

Once inside the Safari Zone, make your way to the Secret House. This may take some time and exploration, as the Safari Zone is quite large and filled with winding paths and tall grass. Keep an eye out for signs that can help guide you, and don't be afraid to explore every nook and cranny. The Safari Zone is filled with treasures, so it's worth taking your time and searching thoroughly.

Inside the Secret House, you'll find an old man who will reward you with HM03 Surf. Congratulations! You've just unlocked the ability to surf across water, opening up a whole new world of possibilities. Surf is not only crucial for exploration, but it's also a powerful Water-type move in battle. Many Water-type Pokémon can learn Surf, making it a staple move for competitive teams.

Now that you have Surf, you can teach it to a Water-type Pokémon and start exploring the seas and lakes of Kanto. You'll discover new routes, hidden islands, and encounter Pokémon like Lapras, Staryu, and Krabby. Surf is also essential for progressing through the main storyline, as it allows you to reach locations like Cinnabar Island and the Seafoam Islands. The freedom that Surf provides is unparalleled, making it one of the most valuable HMs in the game. So, grab your surfboard (figuratively, of course!) and get ready to ride the waves!

HM04 Strength: Moving Mountains (of Boulders)

Let's move on to HM04 Strength, which is your ticket to pushing around those big, bulky boulders that block your path. You'll encounter these boulders in caves, dungeons, and various other locations throughout the Kanto region. Strength is essential for accessing new areas, uncovering hidden items, and progressing through the game.

To acquire HM04 Strength, you'll need to first obtain the Gold Teeth from Warden Slowpoke in the Safari Zone (yes, you're heading back there!). The Gold Teeth are located in a specific area within the Safari Zone, so you'll need to explore carefully to find them. Think of it as a mini treasure hunt within the Safari Zone itself.

Once you have the Gold Teeth, exit the Safari Zone and head to Fuchsia City. Locate the house of Warden Slowpoke, who is feeling a bit uncomfortable due to his missing teeth. Give him the Gold Teeth, and as a reward for your kindness, he'll bestow upon you HM04 Strength. This act of compassion not only earns you a valuable HM but also helps a Pokémon in need – a true testament to the spirit of Pokémon training!

Now that you have Strength, you can teach it to a Pokémon that can learn it (like many Normal-type and Fighting-type Pokémon). This will allow you to push those pesky boulders out of your way, opening up new paths and possibilities. Strength is particularly useful in caves and dungeons, where boulders often block crucial routes and hidden treasures. Navigating these areas becomes significantly easier once you have Strength in your arsenal.

Strength is not only useful for exploration, but it can also be a decent Normal-type move in battle, especially in the early to mid-game. While it's not the most powerful move, it can come in handy when you need a reliable attack. The versatility of Strength, both in and out of battle, makes it a valuable addition to your HM collection. So, with Strength in hand, you'll be able to move mountains (or at least, big boulders) and continue your adventure through the Kanto region!

HM05 Flash: Illuminating the Darkness

Alright, let's shed some light on HM05 Flash! This HM is your trusty companion for navigating dark caves and tunnels. Without Flash, these areas can be incredibly disorienting and challenging to explore. Flash illuminates your surroundings, making it much easier to find your way and avoid getting lost in the darkness.

To obtain HM05 Flash, you'll need to head to Rock Tunnel, which is located on Route 10, just north of Lavender Town. Rock Tunnel is a dark and winding cave filled with wild Pokémon and trainers. Navigating this cave without Flash can be a real headache, so getting this HM is a priority.

Before you can enter Rock Tunnel, you'll need to talk to one of Professor Oak's aides in Pewter City, which is north of Viridian City through Route 2. You will need to have caught at least 10 Pokémon to receive Flash from the Professor's aide. Once you meet this requirement, return to Rock Tunnel.

After battling through trainers and catching plenty of Pokémon you should have at least 10. Once you meet this requirement, return to Rock Tunnel. Before you head into the darkness, you'll need to talk to one of Professor Oak's aides in Pewter City. This particular aide is known for handing out HMs to trainers who have demonstrated their dedication to catching Pokémon, so make sure your party is up to the task! Talk to the aide, and he'll reward you with HM05 Flash. This is a crucial moment, as it makes exploring dark areas much less daunting.

Now that you have Flash, you can teach it to a Pokémon that can learn it. Once you're inside Rock Tunnel, use Flash to light up the cave. The difference is night and day! You'll be able to see the paths ahead, avoid obstacles, and spot wild Pokémon much more easily. Flash is a lifesaver in Rock Tunnel and other dark areas throughout the game.

While Flash is primarily used for illuminating caves, it also has a secondary effect in battle: it can lower the opponent's accuracy. This can be a useful tactic against strong opponents, making it harder for them to hit you. However, the main purpose of Flash is definitely for exploration. The ability to light up dark caves is essential for progressing through the game and accessing hidden areas. So, with Flash in hand, you can confidently venture into the darkness and discover the secrets that await!

HM06 Rock Smash: Demolishing Barriers

Let’s talk about HM06 Rock Smash, which is your go-to move for breaking those cracked rocks that block your path. These rocks might seem like minor obstacles, but they often guard hidden items, shortcuts, and even entire new areas. Rock Smash is essential for exploring every nook and cranny of the Kanto region.

To obtain HM06 Rock Smash, you'll need to progress through the main storyline until you reach Vermilion City. However, unlike other HMs, Rock Smash isn't obtained through a major story event or a specific NPC interaction. Instead, you'll need to talk to one of Professor Oak's aides in Pewter City. This particular aide is known for handing out HMs to trainers who have demonstrated their dedication to catching Pokémon.

Once you reach Vermilion City, head to the Vermilion City Gym. You will need to have cut down the tree blocking the way to enter. The man standing near the entrance will ask you for help with the mysterious rock. He'll tell you that he is stuck, and will give you HM06 Rock Smash, hoping you'll be able to move it. This simple act of kindness earns you a valuable HM that will greatly expand your exploration capabilities.

Now that you have Rock Smash, you can teach it to a Pokémon that can learn it (like many Fighting-type and Rock-type Pokémon). When you encounter a cracked rock in the overworld, use Rock Smash to shatter it. This will clear the path and allow you to proceed. Rock Smash is particularly useful in areas like the islands surrounding Vermilion City and the routes leading to the Elite Four.

Rock Smash is not only useful for exploration, but it can also be a decent Fighting-type move in battle, especially in the early to mid-game. While it's not the most powerful move, it has a chance to lower the opponent's Defense, which can be a strategic advantage. The dual utility of Rock Smash, both in and out of battle, makes it a valuable addition to your HM arsenal. So, with Rock Smash in your repertoire, you'll be able to demolish barriers and uncover the hidden secrets of the Kanto region!

HM07 Waterfall: Ascending to New Heights

Last but certainly not least, we have HM07 Waterfall. This HM allows you to climb waterfalls, opening up access to previously unreachable areas. Waterfall is essential for completing the main storyline, catching certain Pokémon, and fully exploring the Kanto region. It's one of the final HMs you'll obtain, and it signifies a significant milestone in your journey.

To obtain HM07 Waterfall, you'll need to progress through the game until you reach the Elite Four. After defeating the Elite Four and the Champion, you'll unlock access to the Sevii Islands, a new area filled with challenges and opportunities. The Sevii Islands are home to a variety of rare Pokémon, new quests, and, of course, HM07 Waterfall.

Once you're on the Sevii Islands, you'll need to complete a series of events and quests. Specifically, you'll want to make your way to Icefall Cave on Four Island. Inside Icefall Cave, you'll encounter a waterfall that you can't climb without HM07. This waterfall is the key to unlocking new areas and progressing further in the game.

To obtain the HM, navigate through Icefall Cave, solving puzzles and battling trainers along the way. Eventually, you'll reach the top of the cave, where you'll find HM07 Waterfall. This is a triumphant moment, as you've overcome a challenging dungeon and earned one of the most important HMs in the game.

Now that you have Waterfall, you can teach it to a Water-type Pokémon. This will allow you to climb waterfalls throughout the Kanto region and the Sevii Islands, opening up new areas to explore. Waterfall is essential for catching legendary Pokémon like Articuno and for accessing certain areas required to complete your Pokédex. The ability to climb waterfalls adds a whole new dimension to your exploration, allowing you to reach hidden locations and uncover secret treasures.

Waterfall is not only crucial for exploration but is also a powerful Water-type move in battle. It's one of the strongest Water-type moves available, making it a valuable asset for any Water-type Pokémon on your team. The combination of exploration and battle utility makes Waterfall one of the most sought-after HMs in the game. So, with Waterfall in your possession, you'll be able to ascend to new heights and conquer any challenge that comes your way!

Conclusion: Mastering HMs, Mastering the Game

So there you have it, trainers! A comprehensive guide on how to get all seven HMs in Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen. From cutting down trees with HM01 Cut to soaring through the skies with HM02 Fly, riding the waves with HM03 Surf, moving boulders with HM04 Strength, lighting up the darkness with HM05 Flash, smashing rocks with HM06 Rock Smash, and ascending waterfalls with HM07 Waterfall, you're now equipped to conquer the Kanto region and beyond!

Remember, HMs aren't just about navigating the world; they're also about expanding your strategic options in battle. Each HM offers a unique move that can turn the tide of a fight, so don't underestimate their power! Mastering the use of HMs is a key part of becoming a true Pokémon Master.

By collecting all the HMs, you've not only unlocked new areas and Pokémon but also gained a deeper appreciation for the intricate world of FireRed and LeafGreen. The Kanto region is filled with secrets and challenges, and with these HMs in your arsenal, you're ready to face them all. Exploring every corner of the map and completing your Pokédex is now within your reach.

So, go forth, trainers! Use your newfound HM knowledge to explore, battle, and catch 'em all! The world of Pokémon awaits, and with these powerful tools at your disposal, you're sure to become a legend in the Kanto region. Happy adventuring, and may your journey be filled with exciting discoveries and memorable battles!