Nestled in the heart of Utah Valley, Provo is a hiker’s paradise, offering a range of trails that cater to everyone from beginners to experienced adventurers. With its breathtaking mountain landscapes, scenic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, Provo is ideal for anyone looking to connect with nature. Here are some must-visit scenic hiking trails in Provo!
Y Mountain Trail
- Distance: 6.6 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Highlights: Panoramic views of Provo Valley
One of Provo’s most iconic hikes, the Y Mountain Trail offers incredible views and a great workout. The trail ascends steadily toward the giant white “Y” that overlooks the valley, and you can stop there or continue up to the summit. The higher you go, the better the views of Utah Lake, Provo, and surrounding areas become.
Stewart Falls Trail
- Distance: 3.5 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Stunning 200-foot waterfall
Located near Sundance, Stewart Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hikes near Provo. The trail winds through aspen groves and meadows before reaching the majestic two-tiered falls. It’s especially beautiful in the fall when the trees turn vibrant shades of yellow and orange.
Battle Creek Falls
- Distance: 1.8 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Highlights: Peaceful waterfall, family-friendly trail
Just a short drive from Provo in Pleasant Grove, Battle Creek Falls is a great spot for families and beginner hikers. The easy trail follows Battle Creek through a shaded canyon, leading to a gorgeous waterfall where you can relax and enjoy the sound of rushing water.
Squaw Peak Trail
- Distance: 7.6 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Highlights: 360-degree summit views, wildflowers
For those ready for a challenge, the Squaw Peak Trail rewards you with unmatched views from the top. This trail is steep and requires some stamina, but the sight of Provo, Utah Valley, and the Wasatch Mountains from the summit makes it all worth it. Wildflowers dot the trail in spring and summer, adding extra color to the landscape.
Provo River Trail
- Distance: 15 miles (point to point)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: River views, shaded paths, and easy terrain
The Provo River Trail is a paved pathway perfect for an easy-going hike, a bike ride, or a casual stroll with beautiful views of the Provo River. Stretching from Utah Lake to Vivian Park, this trail provides shaded sections, picnic areas, and views of the mountains and river. It’s a great choice if you want to enjoy a relaxing day outside.
Mount Timpanogos via Aspen Grove
- Distance: 13.5 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Highlights: Glaciers, mountain lakes, scenic summit
For experienced hikers, the Aspen Grove trail to Mount Timpanogos is a challenging yet rewarding experience. This trail takes you past waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and even a small glacier before reaching the summit, where you’ll get sweeping views of Utah Valley. Though strenuous, it’s one of Utah’s most celebrated hikes and well worth the effort.
Rock Canyon Trail
- Distance: 5.5 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Rock formations, canyon views, seasonal streams
Rock Canyon Trail is a popular choice among locals for its unique rock formations and beautiful canyon scenery. The trail is relatively shaded and offers plenty of natural beauty, including towering cliffs, interesting rock formations, and seasonal streams. This trail also connects to other hiking routes, so you can extend your adventure if you feel up for it.
Tips for Hiking in Provo
- Bring Plenty of Water: Utah’s dry climate can be deceiving, so it’s essential to stay hydrated.
- Wear Sturdy Shoes: Many trails have rocky sections, so hiking boots or sturdy shoes are recommended.
- Check the Weather: Mountain weather can change quickly, so check the forecast and be prepared for sudden changes.
- Respect Wildlife: Provo’s trails are home to diverse wildlife, so be respectful and keep a safe distance.
- Leave No Trace: Help preserve the beauty of Provo’s trails by picking up after yourself and staying on designated paths.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, Provo’s trails offer something for everyone. So grab your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and explore the natural wonders of Provo!
