Rock Canyon Trailhead

Rock Canyon Trailhead is a popular outdoor recreation area located in Provo, Utah, at the mouth of Rock Canyon. The trailhead serves as the primary access point for hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking in Rock Canyon and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains.

Recently reopened in 2024 after extensive renovations, the trailhead now features improved infrastructure and amenities designed to enhance visitor experience while preserving the natural beauty of the area. The $3 million renovation project, funded through local, county, and state grants, addressed issues such as graffiti, vandalism, and overuse that had plagued the site in previous years.

The trailhead provides access to several trails of varying difficulty, including the main Rock Canyon Trail which leads deeper into the canyon. As visitors progress along the trails, they encounter diverse landscapes ranging from desert-like terrain near the trailhead to more alpine environments higher up, complete with streams, maple trees, and coniferous forests.

Rock Canyon is known for its unique geology, featuring striking canyon walls that attract rock climbers from around the region. The area is also home to diverse wildlife and plant species, making it an excellent location for nature observation and photography.

The trailhead serves as a gateway to further outdoor adventures, with trails leading to destinations such as Squaw Peak, Cascade Mountain, and various caves within the canyon system. It's estimated that the canyon attracts over 200,000 visitors annually, underlining its significance as a recreational resource for both the local community and visitors to the Provo area.