One of the best things to do around Provo is go hiking. There are a variety of trails, so hikers of all skill levels can enjoy getting out in nature. Most of the trails mentioned in this list are easier and more accessible, however, we have a few more challenging trails as well. Obviously, summer and fall are lovely times for a hike, but many people in Provo go hiking in the winter too! With these gorgeous trails, you’ll understand why.
#1 Bridal Veil Falls
This is the signature trail of Provo. The trail leads out to beautiful waterfalls in the warmer months, where you can splash a bit after your hike. In the winter, the falls freeze over and some hardy souls climb up the ice. This is an easy trail, so it’s good for families and is accessible for dogs on a leash. Because it’s an easy trail and a popular one, you might want to start your hike early in the day to avoid the crowds. This trail is about 15 minutes from Hines Mansion.#2 Stewart Falls Trail
This is a more moderate trail, but it leads to one of the most photogenic waterfalls near Provo. Stewart Falls is a waterfall in two tiers that both drop more than 200 feet. This is a good family hike, with just one steep part on the trail. This trail is at its best in the summer and fall because of all the pretty plants along the way. However, some also choose to snowshoe out to the Falls in the winter. This trail is about 30 minutes from Hines Mansion.
#3 Big Springs Hollow Trail
This is an easy trail, great for families of all ages as well as dogs on a leash. It is also a good place to find mountain bikers nearby. This beautiful trail winds its way past hordes of wildflowers and trees, and the butterflies seem to enjoy the trail as much as the people. This trail is beautiful spring through fall. That being said, the trail is open year-round for those who like a winter hike. It’s easy enough that a winter hike is feasible for most. This trail is about 30 minutes from Hines Mansion.
#4 Timpanogos Cave
This is an easy but steep trail. In order to go into the caves, you must take a guided tour and the tickets are available at the trailhead. Once you get your tickets, it’s a 1.5-mile hike up a steep but paved trail to the caves themselves. Inside, the cave has mostly smooth floor, but there are some wet spots and stairs. Strollers and dogs are not allowed on the trail. This cave system is incredibly popular. During the week, you might not need to book ahead, but you will on the weekend! This trail is about 30 minutes from Hines Mansion.
#5 Fifth Water Hot Springs
This is an easy trail with plenty of chances to soak. The trail has several pools for hot springs as well as three scenic waterfalls. Visitors are allowed and encouraged to soak in the pools. It should be noted that no one is allowed to soak in them nude, but some people still do. This trail is great in the warmer months, but it is also wonderful in the winter. Typically, hikers will not need snowshoes to make the hike and the hot springs are still hot. This trail is about an hour from Hines Mansion.#6 Battle Creek Falls
This is an easy trail. It starts in the bottom of the canyon and stays there for most of the trail, next to a lovely stream. As you approach the waterfall that feeds the stream, the trail begins to climb a bit. It is an easy hike down to the base of the waterfall, or you can continue up the canyon for several more miles. This trail is about 20 minutes from Hines Mansion.#7 Devil’s Kitchen
This is an easy trail, with some unique scenery. This path has red rock pillars, as well as other interesting formations. Looking at them, it’s easy to see where this trail gets its name. It has similar features to Bryce Canyon, although it is much smaller. The trail also runs through a forest and leads out to an observation platform where hikers can see a vista of these red rocks. This trail is about an hour from Hines Mansion.
#8 Grotto Falls Trail
This is an easy trail with log bridges placed at stream crossings. This trail is good for the whole family, especially with what waits at the end. While the other waterfalls on this list are majestic, this waterfall is almost more intimate. It drops from above into a grotto and, because it does not tumble down into open space, this waterfall seems more like it was placed there just for you. If it is warm outside, go ahead and wade into the spray and let it cool you off. This trail is about 35 minutes from Hines Mansion.
#9 Y Trail on Y Mountain
This is an easy but steep trail. The Y on the mountain is a white, concrete Y for Brigham Young University. It is said to be the biggest collegiate symbol in the United States. When on this trail, you will need to bring your own water, but the view from the top is worth it. Y Mountain gives a beautiful view of the town of Provo as well as Utah Lake. This trail is about 15 minutes from Hines Mansion.
#10 Timpooneke Trail to Mt Timpanogos
This last trail is an intense hike, but great for intrepid hikers. You will want to be sure to wear good hiking shoes or boots and to bring layers because it gets colder as you walk up the mountain. Some visitors do this hike in a long day, while others prefer to backpack and spend a night along the way. Once you make it to the top of the mountain, you can continue on to see the snowfield, which is at the top of the mountain no matter the season. This trail is about 40 minutes from Hines Mansion.
Most of the trails listed above are great for a family vacation, but many of these trails are also easy enough for hikers who want a relaxing hike. Whichever of these trails you choose, you are sure to get some beautiful photographs of nature and have a great time. If you don’t have time to do all of the trails you want, just be sure to put them on your list for your next visit.