As fall approaches, the mountains around Provo transform into a kaleidoscope of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a more strenuous hike, the trails in Utah Valley are perfect for soaking in the fall colors. This guide covers some of the best fall hikes near Provo, with additional information to help you plan your adventure.
1. Battle Creek Falls
A family-friendly hike with a big reward—a waterfall! This short trail is perfect for all skill levels, offering a refreshing view of Battle Creek Falls framed by vibrant autumn leaves.
- Length: 1.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Kiwanis Park, 200 S Battle Creek Dr, Pleasant Grove, UT
2. Stewart Falls
This trail is a must during fall. Hikers are rewarded with a stunning 200-foot waterfall, nestled in the forested mountains of Sundance. Fall adds an extra layer of beauty to this already picturesque trail.
- Length: 4.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Aspen Grove Parking Lot, UT-92, Provo, UT (near Sundance Resort)
3. Dry Canyon
Dry Canyon offers a mix of open views and shaded sections, making it a perfect fall hike to see the changing colors. There are several trail options, but all lead to beautiful vistas and peaceful forests.
- Length: 5.3 miles round trip (to the overlook)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Dry Canyon Trailhead, 1000 N Dry Canyon Dr, Lindon, UT
4. Timpooneke Trail to Scout Falls
This trail offers sweeping views of alpine meadows and autumn-draped ridges. The 1.5-mile hike to Scout Falls is perfect for a quick outing, or continue up for more serious hiking.
- Length: 1.5 miles to Scout Falls, 15 miles to Mount Timpanogos Summit
- Difficulty: Easy to Scout Falls; Strenuous to summit
- Trailhead: Timpooneke Campground, UT-92, American Fork Canyon, UT
5. Hobble Creek Canyon Trails
This canyon boasts several trails perfect for fall hiking. Here are a few highlights:
- Days Canyon Trail: Follows a stream and opens into a meadow, perfect for a peaceful autumn hike.
- Length: 3.3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Cherry Campground, Canyon Rd, Springville, UT
- Wardsworth Creek Trail: A scenic 3.5-mile hike through aspen groves, leading to a beautiful waterfall.
- Length: 3.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Hobble Creek Canyon, near Cherry Campground
6. The Grotto Trail
This short, easy trail is perfect for families with young kids or hikers looking for a quick, scenic adventure. The trail winds through the forest and ends at a small, enchanting waterfall.
- Length: 0.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Nebo Loop Road, Payson, UT (near Santaquin)
7. Lake Hardy
If you're up for a challenge, the hike to Lake Hardy in Alpine is long and strenuous, but the views—especially in fall—make it worthwhile. The trail weaves through aspens and offers fantastic views of the valley.
- Length: 10.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Trailhead: Schoolhouse Springs Trailhead, Alpine, UT
8. Bridal Veil Falls
A quick, scenic hike in Provo Canyon that is perfect for a fall afternoon. This paved trail is family-friendly, and the double waterfall is especially beautiful framed by autumn colors.
- Length: 1.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Provo River Parkway, Hwy 189, Provo Canyon, UT
9. Cascade Springs
This gentle trail offers boardwalks and paths that meander through crystal-clear springs and pools. The short loop is ideal for families, and the fall foliage around the springs adds to its serene beauty.
- Length: 1-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Cascade Springs Rd, off Alpine Loop, UT
10. Rock Canyon Trail
For a slightly longer fall hike, Rock Canyon Trail offers spectacular views of Provo and the colorful cliffs that tower above the trail. As you ascend, you’ll pass unique rock formations and experience great fall foliage.
- Length: 5.7 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Rock Canyon Trailhead, 2620 N 1200 E, Provo, UT
11. Big Springs Hollow
Tucked in the South Fork of Provo Canyon, this lesser-known trail takes hikers through beautiful forests and meadows. It’s a quiet, peaceful hike—perfect for avoiding the crowds while enjoying the fall colors.
- Length: 3.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Big Springs Park, South Fork Rd, Provo Canyon, UT
12. Mount Timpanogos
For experienced hikers looking for an all-day adventure, the Mount Timpanogos summit is one of the most rewarding hikes in Utah. The views from the top are unbeatable, and the autumn scenery along the trail is breathtaking.
- Length: 15 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Trailhead: Timpooneke or Aspen Grove Trailhead, UT-92, American Fork Canyon, UT
13. Y Mountain
Though often overshadowed by more scenic hikes, the Y Mountain trail offers a great workout and panoramic views of Provo and Utah Valley. The first section to the iconic “Y” is steep but popular, and continuing past the Y offers better views and fewer crowds.
- Length: 6.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous (depending on distance)
- Trailhead: Y Trailhead, 1450 E 1060 N, Provo, UT
Whether you’re looking for a short stroll with the family or an all-day trek to a summit, these trails near Provo offer a variety of options to enjoy the fall colors. Just remember to pack layers, as fall temperatures in Utah can shift quickly.
