Upper Provo Falls is a quick stop when heading through the Uinta Mountains. Don’t confuse this with Upper Falls in Provo Canyon, even though the names are similar. It would be a stretch to call this a hike as it is only about a 75 foot walk to the falls, but it is beautiful.
The trail down to the falls isn’t accessible, but you can see it quite well from the parking lot (see left photo below), so for that it is great for those who can’t walk well. On the right side of the parking lot next to the restrooms is a dirt and rock trail to the falls. On the left side of the lot is a paved one with stairs (right photo below is standing next to the falls looking up towards the parking lot).
These photos were taken the last weekend in August so the flow isn’t too strong, but in the early summer it could be raging. Be careful, especially with children that they don’t fall in. Here is a view standing next to the falls looking downstream.
Be sure to stop if you are on your way to Mirror Lake, Ruth Lake or any other spot in the Uintas or beyond.
Distance – 150 feet there and back
Approximate hiking time – 5 minutes
Elevation gain – 10 feet
Difficulty – Beginner/Easy
Trail – well maintained trail of dirt or paved with stairs
Bathrooms – At Trailhead
Seasons to hike – June-October
Permits needed – $6 for a 3-day pass or a National Parks Pass
Pets allowed – Yes