Upper Falls

Utah

Photo Credits (5)

arbyreed CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Ken Lund CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Upper Falls

Upper Falls tumbles through Provo Canyon along the Provo River, offering a compact but rewarding taste of canyon scenery not far from the valley. Surrounded by the lush vegetation of the canyon walls, the falls are a favorite short outing for locals and visitors seeking a scenic payoff without a long backcountry commitment. The setting is peaceful and photogenic, with easy access to the sound and spray of falling water. The approach to Upper Falls follows a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate—a manageable hike for anyone with a bit of conditioning. If you’re making a night of it, Theater in the Pines campground sits about 6.74 km away, putting a convenient overnight option within easy reach of this classic Provo Canyon stop.

Trail Description

This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike along a well-maintained corridor that follows the Provo River to Upper Falls. Expect approximately 350 feet of cumulative elevation gain; the route is rated moderate due to the steady but short climb approaching the falls rather than technical challenges. The path is suitable for most hikers and provides steady river and canyon views; no USFS trail number or specific surface/grade/class data was provided in the source information. Nearby Theater in the Pines campground (≈6.74 km away) offers a camping option for multi-day visitors.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a peaceful hike with views of the Provo River and a chance to enjoy the cascading waters of Upper Falls. The area is typically less crowded than nearby Bridal Veil Falls, providing a quieter experience.

Accessibility

The trail to Upper Falls is not fully wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain.

Seasonal Closures

The trail is open year-round, but access may be limited during winter due to snow or ice.

Safety Information

Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks may be slippery. Be aware of swift river currents and avoid venturing too close to the water. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may be icy or muddy during winter and early spring.

Location & Access

Getting There

Upper Falls is located in Provo Canyon, Utah, along the Provo River. It can be accessed via the Provo River Parkway Trail or by parking near the Bridal Veil Falls area and hiking upstream.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near Bridal Veil Falls, which is a short distance from Upper Falls. Additional parking may be found along the Provo River Parkway Trail.

Elevation

5627 feet above sea level

Coordinates

40.343971° N, -111.590647° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may be slippery near the waterfall. Bring water and a camera to capture the scenic views.

This trail sits at 5,627 ft above sea level

Elevated Trail

UV radiation is roughly 23% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.

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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen

UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.

Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)

Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.

Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets

You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.

ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses

High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.

Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)

Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Where to Stay

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

THEATER IN THE PINES

4.2 miles away · 2 sites

Reservable

Overview Theater in the Pines is a large group campsite located along the beautiful Alpine Loop Scenic Byway in the Wasatch Mountains. The Mount Timpanogos Wilderness Area is adjacent. Visitors enjoy hiking the Aspen Grove Trail to the summit of Mount Timpanogos.Recreation Hiking is very popular in the area. Several trails begin nearby, including the 14-mile round-trip Aspen Grove Trail, which begins next to the campground and climbs to the summit of rugged Mount Timpanogos. The 2-mile Stewart Fa

Book on Recreation.gov