You’ve Never Heard of these 7 Utah Valley Hikes

Utah Valley is full of hiking destinations that both locals and tourists love, such as the well-known Y Mountain overlooking the Brigham Young University campus or the scenic Timpanogos Cave Trail. The more popular the hike, the more crowded it is likely to be, especially during the peak summer months.

But Utah Valley is full of trails, and many are not well-known, and so are not as crowded. Enjoy the solace and tranquility of the road less traveled. Try one of these lesser-known hikes next time you're in the area.

Like Utah Parkway Trail? You’ll love Payson Lake Trail.

Utah Lake is one of the scenic highlights in Utah Valley, full of activities for the whole family. It can also be more crowded. If you love spending time by the water, then try the Payson Lakes instead. On the south end of Utah County, this is a lovely hiking destination. The Payson Lakes are located inside the Nebo Loop, and the biggest lake – Big East Reservoir – features an easy hiking trail that wraps around the lake.

Make a day of it and try your hand at fishing or take a swim to cool off. This spot is also great for a picnic. Proceed with caution, however: many of the other trails surrounding Mount Nebo are steep, slippery, and definitely not for the beginner hiker.

Like Stewart Falls? You’ll love Horsetail Falls.

Stewart Falls is a popular hiking destination year-round because of its stunning scenery. But very closeby is another gorgeous waterfall, just outside of Alpine City: Horsetail Falls. The 3.9 mile hike takes you through both wooded areas and open meadows before arriving at the falls. This is a more strenuous hike than Stewart Falls, but the crowds are usually smaller, and there are plenty of opportunities to take a break along the way. This trail is also dog-friendly, as long as they are kept on leashes.

Like Rock Canyon? You’ll love Hobble Creek Canyon.

The greatest advantage of Hobble Creek Canyon is that it is full of scenic hiking trails that all seem to intersect, so you can customize the length and difficulty of your hike. You can start at Cherry Campground or Balsam Campground, especially if you are interested in spending a night in the wilderness, and pick up Wardsworth Trail, Days Canyon Trail, Kirkman Hollow Trail, or many other options. These trails are considered easy to moderate in difficulty, and many follow a stream or other body of water. If you are not a hiker or if the weather is not cooperating, you can also take a scenic drive along this route.

Like Provo River Parkway? You’ll love Spanish Fork River Trail.

As the names imply, the Provo River Parkway runs through Provo. A bit more south, the Spanish Fork River Trail goes through Spanish Fork. If you are looking for a leisurely stroll, a run, birdwatching, or biking, this trail is fully paved. It is also wheelchair accessible and only intersects with one road. There is plenty to see along the 11-mile trail, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Dogs are welcome on this trail but must be kept on leash.

Like Battle Creek Falls? You’ll love Grotto Falls.

The waterfalls native to Utah Valley are one of its most appealing features to those from out of town. Grotto Falls is located along the Nebo Loop, and is less than a mile away from a beautiful half-cave with a waterfall pouring into a pool. This destination is great during warmer months, as you can wade in the grotto pool or simply wet your feet. This is also great in the fall, thanks to all of the vibrant foliage. This hike was damaged recently by the Bald Mountain fire of 2018, so they are a few scars along the trail, but the hike is still remarkably beautiful. Note that this hike can be a bit crowded due to its accessibility and beauty, and can be closed due to heavy snowfall.

Like Mt. Timpanogos? You’ll love Lake Hardy.

The hike to the peak of Mt. Timpanogos is long and strenuous, but the views are oh so rewarding. If you enjoy that kind of challenge, check out the Lake Hardy trail during the months of June to November. This is a 12-mile round-trip hike perfect for the experienced adventurer. The final destination: a stunning lake, nestled high in the Lone Peak Wilderness. This is the perfect spot to truly be alone in nature. Hikers warn that this trail is a little overgrown, and recommend wearing long pants and bringing poles.

Like Fairyland Loop? You’ll love Dry Canyon Trail.

Dry Canyon Trail is considered a more difficult hike thanks to its sudden increases in elevation and steep terrain. It is perfect if you are looking to get some exercise on your hike. It is a 5.4 mile loop that is perhaps best known for its beautiful wildflowers and view of the lake towards the end of the loop. This hike is recommended for the summer months and the early fall, but can get muddy if there has been a lot of rainfall in the area. The best part of this trail is the stunning cliff-face at the mouth of the valley. This is also dog-friendly.

The beautiful scenery of Utah Valley makes it extremely popular with tourists, especially those looking to spend more time in nature. By choosing a lesser-known hiking destination, you can experience the Utah Valley like a local, often without battling crowds and congestion on the trails during the popular summer months. These hikes all vary in length, difficulty, and scenery, so you are sure to find something that meets your needs and perfectly completes your Utah Valley outdoor experience. Be sure to bring plenty of water, dress appropriately for the weather, and leave nature exactly as you found it.

Happy hiking!

Hiking the Highest Peaks in Utah Valley

Utah Valley is composed of thousands of square miles of wilderness, making it one of the best hiking destinations in the United States. Utah Valley features six mountain peaks that are over 10,000 feet tall and more than 300 miles of trails. Thrill seekers looking to get out of the house and into nature are sure to find adventure here! Make sure to check if the trail heads are open before heading out.

Tips for Hiking in Utah Valley

The key guidelines for spending time in nature, no matter where you are and how long you are staying, are referred to as “Leave No Trace.” By not leaving a trace of your expedition, you are helping preserve the outdoor experience for those who come after you and care for the natural environment. There are seven principles to this philosophy:

1. Plan ahead for your trip and make sure you are prepared in both terms of equipment and physical abilities.
2. Travel and camp on intended surfaces, so you do not hurt yourself or damage the land. For example, stay on hiking trails and camp in marked areas.
3. Dispose of litter properly, even if you have to carry it with you throughout your trip.
4. Leave what you find; do not keep flowers, leaves, or other pieces of nature no matter how small.
5. Minimize the impact of campfires by putting them out entirely and following the rules for fires posted in the area.
6. Respect wildlife: do not feed, disturb, or come close to wild animals. This is their home!
7. Be respectful of other visitors by not being too loud, giving uphill hikers and horseback riders the right of way, and keeping your pets leashed and under control.

Before setting out on your adventure, make sure to pack light by only bringing the essentials with you. Map out your hike, including potential stopping points like water sources, scenic areas, or campgrounds. Ensure that you are in good physical shape by taking frequent short hikes leading up to a bigger trip. Give your trip details to a friend or family member so they can help keep you safe. Consider hiking with a friend to help you stay safe, avoid getting lost, and help pass the time.

When on your Utah Valley hike, be prepared for high altitudes that may make your trip more strenuous. Wear layers to keep you warm in cooler months and prevent sunburn in warmer months—sunburn is more common at higher elevations. Finally, make sure you adhere to the Leave No Trace guidelines to protect the environment and keep it beautiful for future visitors.

The Best Hikes in Utah Valley

These hikes are intended for those more experienced due to their high elevations, longer trips, and steep climbs. The best time of year to hike in this region is between June and September, due to the milder weather and lack of snowfall.

Mount Nebo: this is an 8.5-mile hike with an elevation of 11,928 feet and an elevation gain of 3,851 feet. This is the highest peak in the Wasatch Range, and is located along the Nebo Loop at the start of the North Peak Trailhead. The trail is often covered in snow all year, so be prepared by bringing snowshoes. Also be prepared with plenty of drinking water; there are no stops to refill along the route. This is a difficult hike, but the views at the summit are worth it.

Mount Timpanogos: hikers have two options here, and both are very popular among locals. The longer hike starts in Aspen Grove and is 15.9 miles in length, with an elevation gain of 5,492 feet. The shorter hike relies on Timpooneke Trail and is 14.3 miles in length with an elevation gain of 4,566 feet. Both hikes have a final elevation of 11,749 feet, and are very scenic with mountain goats, wildflowers, and views of the valley along the way.

Provo Peak: this is an 11.4-mile hike with an elevation of 11,068 feet and an elevation gain of 7,119 feet. This mountain sits just behind the famous Y Mountain in Provo, and is not as popular. It is a steep and strenuous hike requiring some dirt road travel to reach the trail. Experts recommend camping along the way to break up the trip. You will be rewarded at the summit with panoramic mountain views.

Box Elder Peak: this is a 10.2-mile hike with an elevation of 11,101 feet and an elevation gain of 4,812 feet. The peak is located in the middle of the Alpine Loop. The easiest way to access it is from Alpine City to Dry Creek Trail, though there are other options as well. This hike is well known for its wildflowers and bird watching opportunities and offers beautiful views throughout.

Spanish Fork Peak: this is a 10.6-mile hike with an elevation of 10,192 feet and an elevation gain of 4,685 feet. It is a mainly uphill hike featuring a freshwater stream, a small lake, and plenty of wildlife. Hikers report having seen elk, deer, cows, and even bears here, so proceed with caution and do not disturb the wildlife. This hike is recommended to be taken with a friend as navigation gets more tricky the closer to the summit you get.


Experienced hikers from all over the country are drawn to the opportunities in the Utah Valley region. Though more strenuous than some other popular hikes, these hikes are great for spending longer periods of time in nature and taking in stunning mountain views. They may be challenging, but they are worth it when you reach the summit. Make sure your physical conditioning is up to par, you have the essential supplies, and you have picked a friend willing to take on this adventure with you.

After your hike, you are sure to walk away with stories, photos, and a strong sense of satisfaction for having made it to the summit. If you are in good physical shape, enjoy an adrenaline rush, and are looking for your next adventure, consider one of the hikes available in Utah Valley.