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. Stewart Falls
A must during fall, this trail leads to a stunning 200-foot waterfall surrounded by golden aspens and crisp mountain air.
- Length: 4.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Aspen Grove Parking Lot, UT-92, Provo, UT (near Sundance Resort)
2. 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
3. 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
4. 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
5. Fifth Water Hot Springs (Diamond Fork)
A fall hike like no other—this trail winds through a colorful canyon and ends at natural hot spring pools and a waterfall.
- Length: 4.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Diamond Fork Rd, Springville, UT 84663
6. 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
7. 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
8. 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
9. 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
10. Buffalo Peak
Just above Provo, this short hike offers one of the best views of Utah Valley framed by autumn colors.
- Length: 1.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Kyhv Peak Road
11. Upper Falls
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: 0.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: 2542-2756 Provo Canyon Rd, Provo, UT 84604
12. Pahneekahvets Trail
A brand-new Sundance trail whose Ute name means “Look around you; look at the beauty of this place.” Perfect for soaking in the golden aspens.
- Length: 1.25 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Trailhead: 3478 E Boneyard Rd, Sundance, UT 84604
