15 Best hikes in Utah Valley
Discover the 15 Best Hikes in Utah Valley
Do you like to hike? Utah Valley is a hiker's paradise, offering a wide range of trails that fit all skill levels. Whether you're seeking panoramic vistas, cascading waterfalls, or serene forest paths, Utah Valley has something for everyone. Here's a list of the 15 best hikes in Utah Valley:
1. Mount Timpanogos via Timpooneke Trail
Mount Timpanogos
Distance: 15.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 4,500 ft
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: Alpine meadows, Emerald Lake, panoramic summit views
Trailhead: Timpooneke Trailhead
As one of the most iconic hikes in Utah, Mount Timpanogos offers a challenging ascent rewarded with breathtaking views. The trail meanders through wildflower-filled meadows and past glacial lakes before reaching the summit.
2. Stewart Falls
Distance: 3.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Approximately 600 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Two-tiered waterfall, lush forest scenery
Trailhead: Near Aspen Grove
This family-friendly hike leads to the stunning Stewart Falls, where hikers can enjoy the mist from the cascading waters and the surrounding alpine beauty.
3. The Y Trail
The Y
Distance: 2.3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,075 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Iconic "Y" landmark, panoramic views of Provo
Trailhead: Y Mountain Trailhead
A rite of passage for many BYU students, this steep trail offers rewarding views over Utah Valley from the large white "Y" on the mountainside.
4. Battle Creek Falls
Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 450 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Scenic waterfall, family-friendly trail
Trailhead: Kiwanis Park, Pleasant Grove
A short and sweet hike leading to a picturesque waterfall, perfect for families and those seeking a quick nature escape.
5. Dry Canyon Trail
Dry Canyon
Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Varies
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Highlights: Wildflowers, rugged canyon landscapes
Trailhead: Dry Canyon Trailhead, Lindon
This trail offers a more secluded experience with beautiful canyon views and a variety of flora, especially vibrant during spring and early summer.
6. Grotto Falls
Distance: 0.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Shaded trail, charming waterfall
Trailhead: Nebo Loop Road
A perfect hike for young children or those looking for a brief outing, this trail leads to a small but enchanting waterfall nestled in a grotto.
7. Silver Lake Trail
Distance: 4.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,350 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Alpine lake, wildflowers, mountain vistas
Trailhead: Silver Lake Flat Reservoir
This trail offers a steady climb to a serene alpine lake, surrounded by towering peaks and meadows bursting with wildflowers in the summer.
8. Fifth Water Hot Springs (Diamond Fork)
Distance: 4.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Approximately 700 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Natural hot springs, waterfalls
Trailhead: Diamond Fork Road
A popular destination year-round, this trail leads to natural hot springs where hikers can soak and relax amidst scenic surroundings.
9. Rock Canyon Trail
hiking hiking hiking
Distance: 5.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,700 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Rock formations, diverse flora, canyon views
Trailhead: Rock Canyon Trailhead, Provo
A favorite among locals, this trail offers a mix of shaded areas, impressive rock walls, and opportunities for wildlife sightings.
10. Buffalo Peak
Distance: 0.9 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Approximately 275 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Panoramic views, wildflowers
Trailhead: Near Kyhv Peak Road
An excellent choice for a quick hike with rewarding views, especially during wildflower season.
11. Timpanogos Cave Trail
Timp Cave
Distance: 3.1 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,100 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Cave tours, scenic vistas
Trailhead: American Fork Canyon
12. Hobble Creek Trail
Distance: ~4.5 miles (paved path, out and back)
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: River views, shade, perfect for walking, biking, or strollers
Trailhead: Various access points in Springville
Why it’s great: This is a mellow, paved trail ideal for families, joggers, or cyclists looking to enjoy a peaceful and scenic stroll along Hobble Creek.
13. Big Springs Hollow Trail
Distance: 4.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~950 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Forested path, open meadows, peaceful mountain atmosphere
Trailhead: End of Big Springs Drive in South Fork Canyon (near Vivian Park)
Why it’s great: Less crowded than many trails nearby, this is a hidden gem for birdwatching, shade, and peaceful solitude.
14. Slate Canyon Trail
Distance: 11 miles round trip (you can do shorter segments)
Elevation Gain: Varies (up to 2,800 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Highlights: Views of Utah Lake, steep canyon walls, wildflowers
Trailhead: Slate Canyon Drive, east of Provo
Why it’s great: A challenging but rewarding hike, Slate Canyon is perfect for those looking for elevation gain and rugged scenery right near the city.
15. Horse Flat Trail to Salamander Flat
Distance: 4.6 miles loop
Elevation Gain: ~700 ft
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Forested trails, summer wildflowers, meadows
Trailhead: Alpine Loop Scenic Byway near Summit Trailhead
Why it’s great: A beautiful loop trail perfect for late spring through fall with family-friendly terrain and scenic views across Alpine Loop.
As an avid hike myself I have done most of these hikes in Utah Valley and am happy to say there is a hike for everyone. If you are an avid hiker or just like a short but beautiful hike we got you. This is one of the many ways Utah shines in the natural beauty it has to offer.
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