| Wasatch Range (South) Area/Range |
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| Wasatch Range (South)   | 
| Page Type: Area/Range Location: Utah, United States, North America Lat/Lon: 39.81080°N / 111.7644°W Activities: Hiking, Mountaineering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter Elevation: 11928 ft / 3636 m | Page By: mountaingazelle Created/Edited: Jan 12, 2006 / Apr 14, 2008 Object ID: 171211 Hits: 12021 Loading... Page Score: 93.91% - 89 Votes Loading... Vote: Log in to vote |
Overview
The Southern Wasatch are a stunning group of mountains located south of Salt Lake City. There are many peaks to climb, but most people only come here to climb two of them: Mount Timpanogos and Mount Nebo. The other mountains are often overlooked and seldom visited. The majority of ascents up the lesser known peaks are by people who live nearby. The Southern Wasatch runs north to south from Box Elder Peak to Mount Nebo. This is approximately from the city of American Fork to the city Nephi.
The mountains located in between Cascade Mountain and Santaquin Peak offer more solitude. This is a huge contrast compared to the hundreds of people who hike up Mount Timpanogos each weekend during summer. There is considerable evidence of glaciation in these mountains and several alpine cirques have been carved into the mountainsides. This is a wonderful area that offers steep canyons, rugged peaks, and spectacular scenary.
The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway goes through American Fork Canyon and connects with Provo Canyon. This 20-mile drive winds through the canyons and offers great views of Mount Timpanogos and other nearby peaks. The Nebo Loop Scenic Byway, located farther south, goes along the entire eastern side of Mount Nebo and has beautiful views of all of the surrounding mountains. The best thing about the Wasatch is their easy accessibility. They are all within a short distance of many cities along the Wasatch Front.
There are two wilderness areas in the Southern Wasatch. The Mount Timpanogos Wilderness is located south of American Fork Canyon and north of Provo Canyon. It was established in 1984 through passage of the Utah Wilderness Act and contains 10,750 acres of national forest. The Mount Nebo Wilderness is located about two hours south of Salt Lake City. It was also established in 1984 by the Utah Wilderness Act and contains about 28,500 acres. These mountains are located in the Uinta National Forest. This was Utah's first National Forest and was created by Grover Cleveland in 1897. This beautiful forest land attracts visitors with breathtaking views, nice campground facilities, and an extensive trail system.
The Wasatch Range
The Wasatch Range is part of the Rocky Mountains. The Wasatch Range rises to elevations of more than 11,000 feet and stretches for about 160 miles from the Southeast Idaho border to Central Utah. It starts with the Bear River Range near the city of Logan, then the Wellsville Mountains near the city of Mendon and Sardine Canyon, the Northern Wasatch above the cities of Ogden and Bountiful, the Central Wasatch above Salt Lake Valley, and Southern Wasatch, which has the highest mountains, from Provo to Nephi. The Wasatch Range is an imposing and important geographic feature in the western United States. From a geologic perspective, the mountains are a complex mix of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
From a demographic perspective, these mountains, and their western base, is a corridor known as the Wasatch Front. Over 80 percent of Utah's population lives within 15 miles of the Wasatch range. Salt Lake City lies between the Wasatch Range and the Great Salt Lake. Not only those that live in the areas around Salt Lake City but Logan, Ogden, and Provo have the Wasatch Mountains as a spectacular backdrop each morning. Hiking, rock climbing, skiing, camping, mountain biking, and fishing are a few things that the Wasatch Mountains have to offer. This mountain playground is an ideal place for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts.
Provo Peak Alpenglow |
When to Climb
Spring - This is the best time to do steep couloirs and snow routes. Consolidated snow develops in the high basins. Early in the day, you will have firm and icy snow that allows for a fast ascent. In the afternoon, the snow softens and you will be plunge stepping all the way down. Glissading is the best way to descend most snowfields. This is also a good time to travel to areas with talus and boulderfields because much of the loose rubble will be covered in snow. The foothills are the safest place to hike during spring. South facing slopes will have small snow patches but will be passable by most people. Many trails will be muddy and wet. Popular mountains to climb in spring are Cascade Mountain, Box Elder Peak, Big Baldy and Little Baldy, Squaw Peak, and Y Mountain.
Summer - This is the normal climbing season in the Wasatch Mountains. It lasts from July to September. This is also when everybody else is out hiking and climbing. Like most areas, the season is determined by the amount of snow in the mountains. During a heavy snow year, it may be until late summer for snow to melt from sheltered areas. Going to the higher elevations is the best way to escape the heat. When the city temps are hot, it may be very windy and cold on top of a mountain. North facing slopes offer the most shade during summer. Popular mountains to climb in the summer are Mount Timpanogos and Mount Nebo.
Fall - This is a great time to climb. Long hikes and climbs are made easier by the cooler temperatures. The amount of daylight will be shorter though. These mountains have spectacular fall colors which make even the less interesting mountains beautiful. In September, the first big snowstorm of the season usually hits the Wasatch. A period of nice weather usually follows before winter comes. Popular mountains to climb in the fall are Provo Peak, Spanish Fork Peak, Santaquin, and Loafer Mountain.
Winter - This has become a popular time to climb these mountains. This is generally from December to February. In the mountains, the season extends into March and April. Climbing the high peaks in winter should not be taken lightly because of the continuous threat of avalanches which have claimed several lives. An avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel are recommended, as well as the knowledge to use them. Winter usually requires that you walk longer distances because normal trailheads are closed. Most mountains in the Wasatch can be climbed in one long day. Popular mountains in the winter are Mount Timpanogos, Mount Nebo, and Box Elder Peak.
Cascade Mountain and Mount Timpanogos |
Getting There
The Southern Wasatch Mountains are south of the Central Wasatch. They are parallel to Interstate 15. They are not in one general area like the Central Wasatch. The city of Provo is located about an hour south of Salt Lake City. The mountains at the northern end will be nearby for people who live in Salt Lake. Listed below are the main canyons and trailheads for these mountains. Almost all of these trailheads are reached from exiting off of I-15 and heading east toward the mountains. This is the major highway that goes north to south all the way through Utah. Check each mountain page for exact trailhead locations.
American Fork Canyon
If you are arriving from the north or south on Interstate 15 take Exit 284 (Alpine-Highland exit), then turn east on State Highway 92 and proceed into the mouth of the canyon. You'll pass Timpanogos Cave National Monument on the way. This road connects with the Alpine Scenic Loop and Provo Canyon.
Provo Canyon
From I-15 take (exit 272) and then this will turn into State Highway 92 through the canyon. You'll pass by Sundance Resort and over the mountainous scenic route known as the Alpine Scenic Loop. Because of the narrow and winding road, buses and large vehicles over thirty feet are not allowed to travel on the Alpine Scenic Loop. The Alpine Scenic Loop is closed during the winter.
Rock Canyon
From I-15, get off at exit 266 for University Ave. Drive North on University and at 2230 N, turn right. Follow this to North Temple Drive, and turn left toward the canyon. From North Temple Drive, you cross 2230 N again and turn left. At the intersection turn right and this will go right to the parking area.
Spanish Fork Canyon
Drive on 1-15 take the first Spanish Fork exit from I-15 (US-6 to Price and Manti). Go east on US-6 and enter into the mouth of Spanish Fork Canyon. This large canyon is located south of Spanish Fork Peak and north of Santaquin Peak and Loafer Mountain.
Nebo Loop Road - North
Take Interstate 15 south toward Provo. Continue south past Provo until you reach Payson Exit 254. Exit and turn left onto Payson Main Street (State Route 77). Travel south until Main Street intersects with 100 North (State Route 198). Turn left and travel east to 600 East, then turn right on 600 East. Stay on this road, which eventually becomes Canyon Road, and head south to the entrance to Payson Canyon and the beginning of the Byway (CR 015).
Nebo Loop Road - South
Follow Interstate 15 north to Nephi Exit 222. Turn here and travel north on Nephi Main Street (State Route 41) to 100 North (State Route 132). Turn right and go east about two miles to the entrance of the Byway (CR 015) on your left. This is a windy but is very scenic road. The entire road can be driven from city of Nephi to the city of Payson.
Box Elder Peak and Timpanogos seen below Upper Bells Peak |
Box Elder Peak Area
This area is located south of Lone Peak and the Alpine Ridge. It is north of the Mount Timpanogos area which dominates the view toward the south. American Fork Canyon gives access to the area.
Box Elder Peak - (11,101 feet)
This mountain is northwest of American Fork Canyon and has the unfortunate luck of being right in between Lone Peak and Mount Timpanogos. Well, maybe its location is a good thing because there are great summit views and less people. It resembles Ben Lomond in the Northern Wasatch because of its distinct pyramid shape. Terraces can be seen along Box Elder's Peak's slopes. They were built to prevent erosion caused by years of overgrazing livestock. They were dug out by the Civilian Conservation Corp sometime between 1933 and 1942. The Deer Creek Trail from Granite Flat Campground is the most used route. Dry Creek is a longer route and starts from the city of Alpine. The ridge from the saddle north of the peak can be followed to the summit.
Dharma Peak - (9,237 feet)
This peak can be seen while driving toward American Fork Canyon. It is not climbed very often and you will probably be alone. One route to the top is to climb up Wadsworth Canyon and then ascends a couloir up the north side of Dharma Peak. Another route is up Ascetic's Ridge. This route ascends the ridge between Willow and Preston Canyons. There will be considerable scrambling higher up. You will need to bring a light rack or be comfortable at soloing 5th class rock. During summer, the easiest route is up any of the canyons or couloirs along the west face.
Mill Canyon Peak - (10,349 feet)
Mill Canyon Peak is a relatively unknown peak east of American Fork Canyon. The area is popular with mountain bikers and motorcycles but not hikers. There are a couple ways to climb it. The northernmost trail is from Pole Line Pass which is part of Ridge Trail 157. It follows the Great Western Trail south toward the summit. A trail up Mill Canyon can be reached from Tibble Fork Reservior. It meets up with the Great Western Trail south of point 8,800 where you can follow a trail that leads north toward the peak. There is a junction in the trail on the west side of the peak. From here start heading toward the ridge where there will be about 600 feet of hiking left to do. It can also be climbed from Cascade Springs which is probably the longest route. There are great views back toward the peaks above Alta and Brighton, Box Elder Peak, and of course Mount Timpanogos.
Mount Timpanogos covered in snow and Fall colors |
Mt. Timpanogos Area
Mount Timpanogos is considered by many people to be their favorite mountain in the Wasatch Range. It is a large and complex mountain with several sub-peaks and foothills. Most of the smaller peaks will not need their own seperate page so I have listed them below.
North Timpanogos - (11,441 feet)
North Timpanogos is one of the high peaks located north of Mount Timpanogos. There is no trail to the top and few people ever venture away from the Mount Timpanogos trail to climb it. The regular routes to the summit are the West Ridge, the Northwest Ridge, and the North or Northeast Ridge. They are all rated class 2. More challenging routes on North Timpanogos include the Grunge Couloir and Cold Fusion Couloir. A full day of hiking would be to traverse the whole Mount Timpanogos massif including North Timpanogos and several other rugged peaks to the south.
Bomber Peak - (11,347 feet) -- Forgotten Peak - (10,509 feet)
Bomber Peak and Forgotten Peak are located on the northern end of the Mount Timpanogos Massif. Bomber Peak is on the ridgeline to the southeast of North Timpanogos. It was named after the famous plane crash of a B-25 bomber in March of 1955. Both peaks are most easily climbed from the Timpanooke Trail but can also be reached from Pika Cirque. Forgotten Peak is located on a ridgeline to the northeast of Bomber Peak.
Mount Timpanogos - (11,750 feet)
This is the second highest and most famous mountain in the Wasatch. It is a prominant mountain with a seven mile long ridgeline of several peaks. It rises abruply for over 6,000 feet above the valley floor and provides an awesome backdrop to the cities below especially during winter. Many people come to climb it each year making it a popular tourist destination. The mountain is primarily dominated by horizontal bands of limestone, quartzite, and dolomite. Heavy glaciation has created at least seven alpine cirques around the mountain. A short off-trail hike can also be taken to a B-25 bomber crash site.
Mountain goats were introduced to Mount Timpanogos in 1981 and have flourished ever since. You are guaranteed to see some of them clinging to the cliffs below the summit wall. I have seen them right on the trail while climbing up to the ridge. It was pretty obvious that they were used to seeing humans.
Until 1970, there was an annual Provo event called the "Timp Hike" when thousands of people hiked up the mountain. This event was cancelled after 59 years to help preserve the delicate mountain ecosystem. Remnants of the Timp hike can still be seen, such as a stone shelter built in 1959 near Emerald Lake. A smaller metal shack exists on the summit, built as an observation deck complete with brass rods etched with notches that are aligned with various landmarks.
Is it a glacier or snowfield? A debate has been going on for years over whether the mountain harbors Utah's last glacier. A semi-permanent snowfield feeds Emerald Lake; the snowfield is often misnamed a "glacier." Many people use this snowfield as a quick descent route from the summit. During drought years, the snowfield has melted out completely, exposing a crevasse in the talus. The crevasse revealed solid ice beneath the surface. A Washington State University glaciology team analyzed samples of the ice to determine if it was truly glacial, but the results were inconclusive. Read this Article by Scott Patterson.
The two most used routes start from the Aspen Grove and Timpooneke trailheads. Timpanogos is a Ute Indian word meaning "river of rock" which may refer to the large talus cones of limestone and sandstone that flow down its face. The Legend of Timpanogos is a tale created in the early 1920s. As the story goes, young Indian princess Utahna, was to be sacrificed to the Great God of Timpanogos. After Utahna made her sacrificial leap from the top of Mount Timpanogos, the brokenhearted Indian warrior, Red Eagle, laid her to rest inside Timpanogos cave. The two hearts melded into one and can now be seen hanging deep inside the cave as the Great Heart of Timpanogos, formed through several stalactites. Other accounts claim the great spirits hung Utahna’s heart within the cave and laid her body on top of the mountain as a warning. Looking closely at the skyline of majestic Mount Timpanogos, the outline of the sleeping princess can be seen.
South Timpanogos (Second Summit) - (11,722 feet)
This peak is known as Second Summit or South Timpanogos. It is only 27 feet lower than Mount Timpanogos. Razorback Ridge is one of these most exciting scrambles in the Mount Timpanogos area. Conditions must be dry and there is considerable exposure so it isn't climbed much. Snow and ice would make the route very dangerous. I won't go into much detail about it because Scott Patterson has written an excellent route page.
Southeast Timpanogos - (11,607 feet)
The Southeast Summit is located southeast of South Timpanogos. It can be reached directly from Cascade Cirque from its east ridge. This route starts in the vicinity of Stewart Falls. Big Provo Hole is to the southeast of the mountain. It is also be climbed by traversing the ridge from the Southwest Peak of Timpanogos.
Southwest Peak - (10,725 feet)
The Southwest Peak is located south of the Southeast Summit. South Pass is southeast of the peak. It is connected to the South Peak by the Cockscomb Ridge. A direct route would be up Big Provo Hole but the mountain is probably more easily climbed by traversing the ridge from the north or the southeast.
South Peak - (10,715 feet)
South Peak is a pyramid shaped mountain located at the top of the South Ridge of Mount Timpanogos. This ridge starts near the Bridal Veil Falls parking area in Provo Canyon. South Peak is in between the Southwest and Southeast Peak of Timpanogos. A route from Lost Canyon could also be used to access the peak.
Southeast Peak - (10,645 feet)
Southeast Peak is above the southern edge of Big Provo Cirque. This peak, is one of three "South" peaks that compose the Cockscomb Ridgeline on the south end of the Timpanogos massif. It is a great summit that is often climbed as part of a longer trip traversing the Cockscomb Ridge. The peak has two main routes, one traversing from South Peak and the other ascending from the Sundance Ridge to the east and also over Arrowhead Peak.
East Peak - (10,791 feet)
East Peak is located above Primrose Cirque and the east end of Hidden Lakes Cirque. The mountain is directly across from Roberts Horn. Elk Point can also be climbed by traversing the ridge between the two peaks. The longest route is from Hidden Lakes Cirque where you can climb up the west side of the mountain.
Elk Point - (8,600 feet)
Elk Point is connected to East Peak by a long ridgeline. The mountain stands out but isn’t climbed much except by adventurous climbers traversing the ridge up Mount Timpanogos. The mountain can be climbed directly from the trail that goes toward Stewart Falls. Notice the avalanche debris that is located below the mountain.
Roberts Horn - (10,993 feet)
Roberts Horn is the prominent peak located about 0.3 mile from the trail near Emerald Lake. It just misses the 11,000 foot mark by seven feet. Roberts Horn was named after Eugene “Timp” Roberts. He was the folk hero of Mount Timpanogos who started the annual Timp Hike in 1912. The normal route up Roberts Horn starts from Aspen Grove, the same trailhead for Mount Timpanogos. The peak is located about 600 feet northeast of Emerald Lake. Keep hiking up the trail toward Mount Timpanogos until it reaches the edge of Timpanogos Basin. Follow the ridge that goes east toward Roberts Horn. You'll be rewarded with a great view including the east face of Mount Timpanogos. More difficult routes can be climbed from the base of the mountain.
Mahogany Mountain - (9,001 feet)
This is the peak with the long ridgeline northwest of Mount Timpanogos. It can be reached from the Grove Creek trail above the city of Pleasant Grove. The Grove Creek trail heads due east up the canyon alongside a moderate stream. The trail is steep and makes a long switchback to an overlook of Utah Valley. The hike will be about 8 miles round trip with 4200 feet of elevation gain. The mountain helps give perspective to the massiveness of Mount Timpanogos. You can walk north along the road toward the summit of Mahogany Mountain or use a trail across Sagebrush Flat. You could possibly get closer to Mahogany Mountain using that back road off Timpooneke Campground.
Big Baldy - (8,756 feet)
Big Baldy is the mountain west of Mount Timpanogos. Several routes used to climb up the west face of Timpanogos go past Big Baldy. It is accessible from the Battle Creek Canyon or Dry Canyon trailheads in Pleasant Grove and Orem. It is usually lost in the shadow of nearby Timp which looms 3,000 feet higher. The highlight of Battle Creek is a 60 foot waterfall that runs over a sheer rock cliff. This area is very lush and green which makes it very scenic. Big Baldy could be a nice choice for a sunset hike with the sea of lights below.
Little Baldy - (7,895 feet)
Little Baldy is the lower peak southeast of Big Baldy. It is located southwest of Mount Timpanogos. They can be climbed together by making a loop of Dry Canyon and Battle Creek Canyons. The best way to access Little Baldy is from the Dry Canyon trailhead near Orem. Expect to do some bushwhacking on the upper part of the mountain. For most people the highlight of Dry Canyon is a nice section of narrows between the limestone cliffs. It should take between 2 to 3.5 hours to get to the summit. It's not a big mountain but the views are worth it.
Provo Peak seen from the south ridge of Cascade Mountain |
Provo Peak Area
Provo Peak is a large mountain like Mount Timpanogos. It is climbed less often than its more famous neighbor to the north. It has several sub-peaks and foothills. There are many mountains located on Provo Peak's long ridgeline. I have listed some of them below.
Cascade Mountain - (10,908 feet)
This is the large mountain south of Provo Canyon. It has four seperate peaks along its summit ridge. The south summit is 147 feet lower than the actual summit. This is considered one of the harder peaks in the Wasatch because there is really no easy way to the top. The first thing that is noticeable about Cascade Mountain is that there are several steep couloirs running down its west face. These couloirs make excellent spring snow climbs. There are two routes that hikers generally use. The Bunnels Fork route is probably the most scenic. It is still a long day with over 5,000 feet of elevation gain. The second route is the south ridge from Dry Fork trailhead on Squaw Peak Road. The northeast ridge is another possibility, but this would be a very long day.
 Shingle Mill Peak and Freedom Peak
Shingle Mill Peak - (10,690 feet)
Shingle Mill Peak is located north of Freedom Peak on the same ridgeline. The standard route for climbing the mountain is from the Dry Fork Trailhead on Squaw Peak Road. The mountain has lines of terraces running across its slopes. The trail traverses these terraces until it gets to the saddle with Shingle Mill Peak and Freedom Peak. Now all you have to do is follow the ridge up to the summit. The last part is steep but not difficult. You might as well climb Freedom Peak while you are there. Shingle Mill Peak can also be reached from Big Springs Trail. The distance from the parking lot to the Cascade saddle is just over 5 miles. The route from the Big Springs trail is longer than the route from Dry Fork.
Freedom Peak - (10,801 feet)
This mountain was officially named on June 9, 2005. The nation’s largest Independence Day celebration, The Freedom Festival, takes place in Provo. No doubt this had influence on voting to name the mountain Freedom Peak. It is located on the ridgeline north of Provo Peak. The shortest route to the top is from the Dry Fork Trailhead on Squaw Peak Road. This is the same approach for Shingle Mill Peak which you could easily combine with Freedom Peak. The final part up the mountain has some nice scrambling along the ridgeline. You can also continue on the ridge toward Provo Peak.
Provo Peak - (11,068 feet)
Provo Peak is one of the highest mountains above the city of Provo. The route used the most is the west ridge. The trailhead for the west ridge starts from Squaw Peak Road. This road is paved to Rock Creek Campground and then turns into a gravel dirt road after that. The route is difficult to find at the beginning. You'll be walking up steep slopes and along terraces. Once you get to the ridgeline the trail will be easy to see and follow. You can also get there from the Dry Fork Trailhead by taking the same route to Freedom Peak. There are two unnamed peaks that you will have to climb before getting to Provo Peak's north ridge.
Squaw Peak - (7,877 feet)
This is the mountain immediately north of the entrance to Rock Canyon. It is a rugged peak with huge cliffs along its south side. The trail starts from Rock Canyon trailhead. Hike up it for about 1.5 miles until you come to a fork. The left fork heads up to Squaw Peak. The trail goes up the north ridge of the peak. Another route is from the west ridge. This is the most direct route that starts near the mouth of Rock Canyon. There is no trail and the route is steep but route-finding is staight forward.
Y Mountain - (8,568 feet)
You'll recognize this mountain because of the letter Y painted on it. It represents Brigham Young University which is located below it. The Y is located about one-half mile east of campus and halfway up the mountain. From the parking lot walk up the dirt road to the Block Y. The trail goes south into Slide Canyon and ends up at the First Meadow. Turn north into the drainage above and walk along the dry creek bed. The summit is flat so you'll have to walk along the edge of it to get a great view of the Utah Valley. The northern edge has views of Squaw Peak and Rock Canyon.
Maple Mountain - (9,089 feet)
Maple Mountain is located southwest of Provo Peak between Slate Canyon and Slide Canyon. You can climb the mountain from either route. A trail goes to the saddle between Maple Mountain and Lions Head. Route-find your way up the east side of Maple Mountain. The trail thats goes up Slide Canyon trailhead is probably the best route to climb the mountain. It is located on the north side of the mountain. Y Mountain is located to the northwest. The trail meets up at the same saddle from Slate Canyon where you can climb up the east side.
Buckley Mountain - (9,502 feet)
Buckley Mountain is located near Horse Mountain and west of Corral Mountain. This are near Squaw Peak Road and you can park due east of both peaks. The best route is to follow the ridge that is located on the east side of Buckley Mountain. Route find west through the brush to the summit. This area is seldom visited. Buckley Mountain has two peaks that are separated by a little over a half mile. The south peak is 9,153 ft, and the north peak is 9,502 ft. Buckley Mountain can also be reached from Slate Canyon trailhead. There is a maintained trail that follows the canyon below the mountain. Another option is to stay in the canyon bottom and climb straight up an avalanche gully. There is some bushwhacking involved in this route.
Lightning Peak - (10,055 feet)
Lightning Peak is located on the ridgeline northeast of Shingle Mill Peak. Either Shingle Mill Canyon or Water Hollow can be hiked from the South Fork of Provo Canyon. The trail climbs to a high mountain ridgeline called Windy Pass. Lightning Peak will be directly west of the pass. You can also climb Lightning Peak from the Dry Fork Trailhead on Squaw Peak Road. You could follow the ridgeline from Shingle Mill Peak or the trail that meets up with Shingle Mill Canyon and the Great Western Trail. The mountain can be seen in the distance above many of the smaller peaks near Big Springs Hollow to the northwest.
Corral Mountain - (10,220 feet)
Corral Mountain consists of several peaks that are located on the south ridge of Provo Peak. It is part of the long ridge that extends south from Shingle Mill Peak, Freedom Peak, and Provo Peak. To get there, drive on the Squaw Peak Road until you are due west of Corral Mountain. This point can be reached from the north or south on Squaw Peak Road. You can hike up the ridge that is southwest of the mountain. All of this will be off trail hiking. When you get to the main ridgeline head northeast toward the summit. This mountain provides a great view of Provo Peak's west face. Corral Mountain can also be climbed from its long south ridge near the pass on Squaw Peak Road.
Loafer Mountain seen from Santaquin Peak |
Spanish Fork - Santaquin
The area between Provo Peak and Mount Nebo is quiet and a nice place to climb is you like solitude. Spanish Fork Peak is north of Santaquin and Loafer Mountain. Those two peaks can be accessed from Nebo Scenic Byway.
Spanish Fork Peak - (10,192 feet)
Spanish Fork Peak is usually overlooked because it is located in between two higher groups of mountains. It is near the town of Mapleton and north of Spanish Fork Canyon. The right fork of Maple Canyon is the normal route up the mountain. It starts near the Whiting Campground on Maple Canyon road. It heads south and climbs steadily to Maple Canyon Lake. Then the trail goes up several switchbacks to the ridgeline of Spanish Fork Peak. The elevation gain is about 4,700 feet. If you include a few minor ups and downs along the way, it is very close to a 5,000 foot effort. The west side route, from Crowd Ridge, is the recommended winter route. It leads directly to the summit. There is a triangular station and huge summit cairn on top.
Santaquin Peak - (10,685 feet)
This mountain is east of the city of Payson and north of the Nebo Loop Road. Its next door neighbor is Loafer Mountain. These mountains aren't climbed as much probably because Mount Nebo is so close by. There are a couple different routes that can be taken but the one from Payson Lakes trailhead is used the most. The hike is about 11.5 miles round trip. It meets up with the Bennie Creek Trail where you will have a choice to go on the Loafer Mountain trail or Mud Hollow trail. The Mud Hollow trail is more direct and reaches a pass on the southeast ridge. It intersects the Loafer Mountain trail higher up. The Loafer Mountain trail goes northeast toward the West Ridge. Then it heads east to the pass between Loafer Mountain and Santaquin Peak. There will be a trail going up the south ridge of Santaquin Peak. The southeast ridge is a good winter route and can be done in one day. Access to this route is near the town of Birdseye north of Mount Pleasant.
Loafer Mountain - (10,687 feet)
Loafer Mountain is two feet higher than Santaquin Peak. It is located to the southeast. They can be climbed together on the same hike. Fewer people go to Loafer Mountain because the summit is a flat plateau and looks less interesting compared to Santaquin Peak. Climb Loafer Mountain from the saddle between Santaquin Peak. Stay on the upper west ridge and walk along a hikers trail to the top. The view from the summit of Loafer Mountain is similiar to the one from Spanish Fork Peak. You can see the line of mountains to the north and Mount Nebo to the south.
Mount Nebo seen from the west face of North Peak |
Mount Nebo Area
This is the last major area in the Wasatch Mountains. It is at the southern end of the range. Mount Nebo is the highest mountain in the range so it sees quite a lot of traffic. South of Mount Nebo are the San Pitch Mountains.
Bald Mountain - (10,913 feet)
From far away, Bald Mountain looks like Mount Nebo's little sidekick. Closer inspection will reveal that Bald Mountain is a big peak that stands on its own. It is almost 11,000 feet tall and located north of Mount Nebo. Climbing it is considerably easier than Mount Nebo because there is a road that goes near the base of the mountain. Only high clearance vehicles are recommended for driving on the Mona Pole Road. You will need to fill out a sign in sheet but no fee is required. The approach is a two mile walk along the road to get to the ridge. The easiest route is from the south slopes. The southwest ridge is rated 3rd class.
North Peak - (11,174 feet)
I'm sure that you have already guessed that North Peak is located north of Mount Nebo on the same ridgeline. The normal route starts from the Monument trailhead which is the same trailhead used for the north route up Mount Nebo. North Peak can be included with an ascent or descent of Mount Nebo. It isn't climbed as much because the trail to Mount Nebo doesn't go to its summit. It goes around the west slope of the mountain. It can be climbed by people looking for an easier 11,000+ foot peak in the area. There is a trail up the north ridge and the south side is a steep face barren of any trees.
 Mount Nebo's three summits
Mount Nebo - (11,928 feet)
The Wasatch Range ends with one of its most impressive mountains. Mount Nebo is the southernmost and highest peak in the entire range. It is the centerpiece of the Mount Nebo Wilderness and highpoint of Utah County. Mount Nebo is a large mountain that stands out in all directions. Anyone driving down I-15 will notice it because of its three separate summits. The northernmost is the highest, the south summit is the second highest, and the middle summit is the lowest.
The North Summit is climbed from the Monument Trailhead. This is the easiest route to the top. The traverse of all three summits is rated 3rd class but looks more difficult than it really is. There is some loose rock and the ridge is narrow in a few places. It isn't done much because a car shuttle is needed to do the whole traverse. The ridge is open and exposed to the elements, so it is not a good place to be during a storm. Mount Nebo is one of the most popular mountains to climb in the Wasatch.
Original surveys placed the southern peak as the highest at 11,877 ft. When the mountain was resurveyed in the 1970s, they found out that the northern summit was the highest. Unfortunately, a well maintained trail already led to the south summit. The trail up Andrew's Ridge is considered difficult because of the length of the hike and the substantial elevation gain. The Nebo Loop Scenic Byway goes along the eastern side of the mountain from Payson to Nephi. It is a narrow windy road that provides great views of Mount Nebo and the surrounding mountains. It is especially pretty during fall when all of the leaves are changing colors.
Mount Nebo seems more desolate than many of the other Wasatch Mountains. Normally, the oldest rocks are found at the higher elevations and the youngest rocks are found at the lowest elevations. As Mount Nebo formed, it was inverted by a huge thrust fault, reversing the process of rock layering, and exposing the youngest rocks on top. Indians once built signal fires on the summit of Mount Nebo which was named by the early Mormon pioneers after the Mount Nebo in Palestine. The name Nebo means "Sentinel of God." In 1869, William W. Phelps was the first settler recorded to ascend the mountain. Phelps was an important early leader of the Latter Day Saint movement. He was an assistant president of the church in Missouri and a scribe to Joseph Smith.
Mount Nebo seen from Bald Mountain |
Peak Lists
Utah County Highpoints List
Mount Nebo - Utah County
Ultra-Prominence Peaks of the 48 States List
Mount Nebo - 5,488 feet of prominence
Mount Timpanogos - 5,269 feet of prominence
Utah Prominence Peaks List
Mount Nebo - 5th highest prominence in Utah
Mount Timpanogos - 7th highest prominence in Utah
Provo Peak - 28th highest prominence in Utah
Spanish Fork Peak - 41st highest prominence in Utah  Provo Peak from Dry Creek
Loafer Mountain - 44th highest prominence in Utah
Wasatch 11,000 foot Peaks List
North Mount Nebo - (11,928 feet)
South Mount Nebo - (11,877 feet)
Middle Mount Nebo - (11,824 feet)
Mount Timpanogos - (11,749 feet)
South Timp Second Summit - (11,772 feet)
Southeast Timpanogos - (11,607 feet)
North Timpanogos - (11,441 feet)
North-West North Timp - (11,383 feet)
Bomber Peak - (11,347 feet)
South Bomber Peak - (11,288 feet)
North Peak - (11,174 feet)
Box Elder Peak - (11,101 feet)
Provo Peak - (11,068 feet)
East Provo Peak - (11,044 feet)
10,000 foot peaks
Roberts Horn - (10,993 feet)
Bald Mountain - (10,913 feet)
Cascade Mountain - (10,908 feet)
Freedom Peak - (10,801 feet)
Shingle Mill Peak - (10,690 feet)
Loafer Mountain - (10,687 feet)
Santaquin Peak - (10,685 feet)
Forgotten Peak - (10,509 feet)
Mill Canyon Peak - (10,349 feet)
Miller Hill - (10,264 feet)
Corral Mountain - (10,220 feet)
Spanish Fork Peak - (10,192 feet)
Lightning Peak - (10,055 feet)
9,000 foot peaks
Ant Knolls - (9,792 feet)
Dixon Peak - (9,634 feet)
Buckley Mountain - (9,502 feet)
Bald Knoll - (9,343 feet)
Twin Knolls - (9,272 feet)
Dharma Peak - (9,237 feet)
Hobbie Peak - (9,197 feet)
Maple Mountain - (9,089 feet)
Mahogany Mountain - (9,001 feet)
Lions Head - (9,001 feet)
 Mount Timpanogos Everest Ridge
8,000 foot peaks
Rattlesnake Mountain - (8,840 feet)
Wallsburg Peak - (8,818 feet)
Big Baldy - (8,756 feet)
Salem Peak - (8,746 feet)
Horse Mountain - (8,654 feet)
Elk Point - (8,600 feet)
Y Mountain - (8,568 feet)
7,000 foot peaks
Pumphouse Mountain - (7,990 feet)
Little Baldy - (7,895 feet)
Squaw Peak - (7,877 feet)
Granger Mountain - (7,681 feet)
Ether Peak - (7,533 feet)
Utah County Peaks with over 2,000 feet of prominence
Dean has added the following information: I noted that Utah County has 8 of Utah's prominence peaks with over 2000 feet of prominence and that 3 of the 8 Utah ultras are in Utah County, a very high concentration. Of those 8 peaks, 5 are in the Southern Wasatch. I put together a map showing these peaks and the information included on the map seen on the right.
From the map: You will notice that the state of Utah has over 80 prominence peaks that have at least 2000 feet of prominence. Summitpost member Bob Bolton described it best when he stated that "Topographic prominence” allows all mountains to be measured on a level playing field. It measures how far a mountain rises above the highest saddle, its "key saddle", that connects the peak to a higher peak. Another way to think of prominence is to imagine water rising around a peak. As the water rises to the elevation of the key saddle, the mountain's summit becomes the highest point on an island. The prominence of the mountain is the same as the height of that imaginary island. The prominence of the highest points on land masses is measured as the elevation of the highpoint above the level of the surrounding water."
Ultra Prominence Peaks List: Utah County has eight of these peaks within its boundaries and those eight include three that are considered peaks with over 5000 feet of prominence. Again, quoting Bob Bolton, "By definition an Ultra-prominence peak rises at least 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above its key saddle or surrounding water. The traditional threshold for Ultras in the U.S. has been 5000 feet of prominence, and there just happen to be no peaks in the 48 states whose “clean” prominence is between 1,500 meters and 5,000 feet. Clean prominence is a peak’s minimum prominence when exact saddle and/or summit elevations are not known."
The three "Ultra" prominence peaks are Mount Nebo, Mount Timpanogos, and Flat Top Mountain (in the Oquirrh Mountains). Another peak that is near the Utah county line is Boulter Peak but showing it on this map is just for orientation. From the highest elevation to the lowest, the 8 peaks go like this:
11,928 Mount Nebo
11,749 Mount Timpanogos
11,068 Provo Peak
10,620 Flat Top Mountain
10,687 Loafer Peak
10,192 Spanish Fork Peak
7,690 Lake Mountain Peak
6,904 West Mountain
Mount Timpanogos seen from the southwest |
Rock Climbing & Caves
Wasatch Alpine Climbs
The Wasatch Mountains also have a lot of alpine routes to choose from. Many of these climbs are classic routes that shouldn't be missed. This is a good page to look at if you want to climb something more challenging than the regular route up every mountain. Difficulty and quality ratings are stated on Glenn Merrill's page. They range from rock scrambles to snow and ice climbs. Winter ascents up a lot of the higher peaks have been done by some of the Utah SPers. Mount Nebo, Mount Timpanogos, and Box Elder Peak are a few of them. Check out some of their winter climbing pictures.
American Fork Canyon
American Fork Canyon is located south of Box Elder Peak and north of Mount Timpanogos. It is home to some of the hardest rock climbing routes in Utah. Most climbing is on steep pocketed limestone cliffs. Rock climbing in the canyon was first discovered in the early 1970's but the first bolted routes didn't come until the late 1980's. Three energetic climbers, Bill Boyle, Jeff Pedersen, and Boone Speed, helped transform most of the routes into serious climbing areas.
It has also recieved national attention from many well known climbers who came to climb the most difficult routes. The greatest concentration of hard routes is probably in the Hell Cave Area although many other areas have similiar difficulty. American Fork Canyon has become a modern sport climbing area and there are now over 300 routes lining its walls. A rope, harness, and full set of quickdraws is almost all of the equipment you will need. There are a few moderate routes but most of climbing is in the 5.11 - 5.13 range. There are also some 5.14 climbs.
Rock Canyon
Rock Canyon is near the city of Provo. It is located in between Squaw Peak and Y Mountain. Large rock walls and buttresses line the canyon. Rock Canyon was first explored for potential routes in the early 1970's by several climbers who were attending BYU. They would team up and climb dozens of routes in one afternoon. All of the most obvious lines were climbed in the canyon. By the 1980's, Jeff Pedersen and Boone Speed began climbing all of the hardest routes in the area.
Today, there are plenty of difficult routes on the overhanging quartzite and steep limestone cliffs. Rock Canyon has more moderate routes compared to American Fork Canyon. The quatzite is good quality with nice cracks and ledges. Several beginner routes can be found here too. All hiking begins at the Rock Canyon trailhead and vehicles are not allowed on the dirt road. You'll find solitude on crags that require longer approaches. Walking the entire distance of the canyon is a great hike.
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
This is something that you should see if you're in the area. It's a small national monument but has one of the most scenic caves in Utah. It is located about ten miles up American Fork Canyon. It's a popular tourist attraction that you can take the whole family on. A short but strenuous hike of 1.5 miles is required to reach the cave, located 1,000 feet above the canyon floor. Temperatures inside are about 45 degrees so a light jacket is recommended. The cave is usually open from mid-May through mid-October. In summer, you will have to wait in line because it can only be visited as part of a ranger-led guided tour. Tickets must be purchased at the visitor center before hiking to the cave. The cave system consists of three beautiful caverns that have many different colors and formations.
Ice Climbing in Santaquin Canyon |
Ice Climbing
Provo Canyon
Provo Canyon is located south of Mount Timpanogos and north of Cascade Mountain. It is known for ice climbing rather than rock climbing. It has the highest amount of ice climbs around the Salt Lake and Utah county area. This is why so many visiting ice climbers make Provo Canyon their first destination. There are numerous routes on both sides of the canyon. The routes are on the south side get less sunlight and have thicker ice. The best ice climbing last from about December to late February. The two most popular areas in the canyon are Bridal Veil Falls and Stairway to Heaven. Greg Lowe made a solo ascent of Bridal Veil Falls in 1971. This was the first major ice route in Provo Canyon. Soon climbers began to notice the potential for high quality routes in the canyon. Certain areas have gotten crowded over the years but there is still plenty of ice for everybody to climb.
Santaquin Canyon
Santaquin Canyon is a good alternative to Provo Canyon. It is located about 20 miles south of the city of Provo. This is south of Dry Mountain and Payson Canyon and north of Bald Mountain and Mount Nebo. There is a large amount of ice climbs ranging from moderate to difficult. In more recent years, mixed climbing has become popular. Ice climbing began in Santaquin Canyon in the 1970’s. Doug Hansen and his friends climbed the routes Squash Head and Backoff. In the early 1980’s, the routes Candlestick and Automatic Control Theory were climbed. Then more difficult mixed routes were put up by several climbers in the 1990’s.
Here are a few more ice climbing areas. They are located south of the Southern Wasatch Mountains. Maple Canyon is located in the San Pitch Mountains west of the city of Moroni. Joes Valley is located west of the city of Huntington near the Wasatch Plateau and the San Rafael Swell.
Maple Canyon
Maple Canyon is famous for its conglomerate cobble rock climbing. In winter, several ice routes form on these walls. There may be over 50 routes that develop during a good snow year. The most popular routes are in the Main Canyon, Box Canyon, Left Hand Fork, and Right Hand Fork. To get to Maple Canyon from Salt Lake City drive south on the I-15 until Nephi. Take exit 225 south east towards Ephraim/Manti. In Fountain Green you'll see a sign for Maple Canyon, just start following those. From Ephraim you head back along the 132 to Moroni. In the city of Moroni, you'll see a sign pointing toward Maple Canyon. It is recommended that you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle to drive into the canyon. You will usually have to hike or ski in to approach the ice routes.
Joes Valley
Joes Valley is one of the most popular places to go bouldering in Utah. It is also a great ice climbing area. It is located in a beautiful valley near the Wasatch Plateau. Many routes are within a short distance of a paved road. The sandstone rock contrasts with the ice that forms in winter. Doug Coats was an early ice climbing pioneer in Utah and made many of the first recorded ascents in Joes Valley. From the city of Price, travel south on State Road 10 for 22 miles to the city of Huntington. From Huntington continue south on State Road 10 for 6 miles to a sign on your right pointing the way to Orangeville and Joes Valley on State Road 29. Follow State Road 29 east for 4 miles until you get to a junction. Turn north which is right at the junction and continue following State Road 29 east as it climbs toward Straight Canyon.
Right to Left: Buckley Mountain, Maple Mountain, Y Mountain, and Squaw Peak |
Skiing History
Sundance Ski Resort
The Stewarts were a family of Scottish immigrants that settled in Provo Canyon in the early 1900's. In the 1950's, the Stewarts opened Timphaven, a local ski resort which boasted a chair lift, a rope tow, and a burger joint. In 1969, actor Robert Redford bought Timphaven and much of the surrounding land from the Stewart family. Redford rejecting advice from New York investors to fill the canyon with hotels and condominiums, Redford saw his acquired land as an ideal place for environmental conservation and artistic expression. Years of experimentation had ultimately resulted in what is now called Sundance. There is the Sundance Institute, the spectacular skiing, and nice accommodations that make it a unique place. Sundance Ski Resort is located on the slopes of Mount Timpanogos in the North Fork of Provo Canyon. It is about 50 miles southeast of Salt Lake City.
Sundance Ski Resort has a vertical drop of about 2,150 feet and elevation level of 8,250 feet. It offers a lot of skiing, including one of the finest intermediate-expert bowls in the Wasatch range called Bishop's Bowl. Mount Timpanogos serves as the beautiful background in the distance. Sundance has a quad lift and two triple-chair lifts that allow access to over forty different runs with varying terrein of bumps, bowls, and chutes. Sundance receives an average of 320 inches of snow a year. There are over 450 acres of wilderness that is a skiers and snow boarders paradise. The skiing is quite good at Sundance, and although the steepness and vertical drop cannot rival that of Snowbird, the crowds don't match those of Little Cottonwood Canyon.
The Southern Wasatch mountains is a favorite area for backcountry skiers and snowboarders. Mount Timpanogos is probably the ultimate goal for climbers and skiers with 4,000 to 5,000 feet of skiing. The bowls on the east side of Timpanogos offer perfect terrein. There have been some accidents and fatalities from avalanches so it is a good idea to check the conditions before you go. Alpine Scenic Loop Road is a good place for cross-country skiers or snowshoers during winter. The road is easy to follow and the scenery is hard to beat. American Fork Canyon is usually plowed to Granite Flat in winter with conditions permitting. This canyon is a nice area during winter.
Provo Peak and Y Mountain |
Utah Lake
This is Utah's largest fresh water lake. It is unique because it is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the West but is located in an arid region that receives only about 15 inches of rainfall a year. This is the prominent lake west of Utah Valley. Many cities are near the lake which is located south of Lehi, west of Provo, and north of Payson. The Wasatch Mountains provide a nice backdrop to people who live near it. On the western side of the Utah Lake are the Lake Mountains. This is a low elevation, flat top, mountain range with the highest mountain being Lake Mountain Peak. The lake is a remnant of pre-historic Lake Bonneville that occupied much of the western half of Utah.
Boaters were interested in construction of a facility on the lake that would permit them to launch boats year round. In 1933, an application was made requesting the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps and a marina was completed within a few years. Provo City constructing shoreline picnic and camp facilities after its completion. Recreation on the lake is very popular today and includes boating, sailing, water skiing and fishing. There are newly renovated facilities at Utah Lake that include four boat launch ramps, visitor center, and campsites.
Utah Lake has a surface area that occupies 96,600 acres. Despite its large surface area, Utah Lake is very shallow; it has a maximum depth of 18 feet, and an average depth of about nine feet. The lake suffers from large seasonal algae blooms, which are compounded by industrial effluent from an old steel mill located on its eastern shore. The smell is similiar to the lake stink that is experienced from the Great Salt Lake.
Utah Lake State Park is located on the eastern shore, at the location where the Provo River empties into the lake. The lake is fed by creeks and streams as well as the Provo, Spanish Fork, and American Fork Rivers. Utah Lake's outlet is the Jordan River, located at the lake's north end. Utah Lake's wetlands are an important stopover and nesting area for migratory birds. Utah Lake Wetland Preserve is located at the south end of the lake, in and around Goshen Bay. More than 220 species of birds use the wetland areas. The June sucker is an endangered species of fish that lives naturally in Utah Lake. Its numbers have gone from being in the millions in the early 1800's, to less than 1,000 today. During the summer of 2005, over 8,000 June suckers were released into Utah Lake to help the population grow.
Utah Lake seen from Cascade Mountain |
Utah Valley
Utah Valley is the name given to the area about an hour south of Salt Lake City. This was the home of the Ute Indians. They settled in villiages close to Utah Lake for protection from other tribes to the northeast and to be close to their primary source of food, fish from the lake. The Utes were also known as the Yuta or Uta Indians. As you can see, the state of Utah was named after the Ute Indians. The Wasatch Mountains acted as a natural barrier against their enemies. The first white men to the Provo area were Fray Francisco Atanasio Dominguez and Fray Silvestre Velez de Escalante, who visited Utah Valley in 1776.
 Utah Valley and Utah Lake
Provo is the largest city in the area and the second largest city in Utah. It is located on the eastern side of Utah Lake. Provo was given its name in honor of an early trapper named Etienne Provost. Sometimes his name was spelled with different variations like Proveau and Provot. He was a well-known fur trader and explorer from Quebec, Canada. Provost was considered to be a knowledgeable, skillful, and successful mountain man. He is recorded as being the first person to go far enough north to see the Great Salt Lake. He established a trading post on the shores of Utah Lake. Provo River and Canyon were also named after him.
From approximately 1825 to 1847, various trappers and mountain men spent time in the valley, but the first permanent settlers were Mormon pioneers sent south from the Salt Lake Valley by their leader, Brigham Young. Provo was settled by the Mormons in 1849, and was the first Mormon colony in Utah outside of Salt Lake Valley. Historically, Provo has served as the focal point of Utah Valley industry, commerce, and government. When the transcontinental railroad was completed in 1869, it only took four more years until a line was extended to Provo and then later south and east to give rail connections throughout the West.
Many of the other communities were officially founded soon after and including Alpine, American Fork, Lehi, Pleasant Grove, Payson and Springville. The City of Orem was named after W.C. Orem, builder of the railroad which ran through the town. Payson was named after an early settler, James Pace. The community was previously known as Fort Peteetneet after a Ute Indian chief. Lehi was named after the people of Lehi, in the Book of Mormon, who had frequently moved, like the pioneers. Nephi is located at the southern end of the Wasatch Mountain below Mount Nebo. It was named after a Book of Mormon prophet.
Maple Lake below Spanish Fork Peak |
Provo Weather
 Mountain Goat Family on Timp
The city of Provo is in Utah Valley. It has a warm, arid, and sunny climate during summer and cold snowy weather during winter. The mountains are generally about 15 to 20 degrees cooler. Winter bring huge amounts of snow to the mountains with an average of 500" of the white stuff. The city gets about 60" of snow a year and daily temperatures are usually relatively mild. It is located in a large valley that is separated by the Wasatch Mountains to the east and Utah Lake to the west. The metro area below the mountains is known commonly as the Wasatch Front. The Wasatch Fault runs along the eastern benches of the city along the foothills. The valley floor is the lake bed of the ancient Lake Bonneville which the Great Salt Lake is a remnant.
During Spring the weather and climate can be variable, with sudden showers occurring. During spring, temperatures warm up drastically and days are marked by the highest humidity and some of the wildest daily temperature swings of the year. The first summer-like weather usually comes in mid-to-late May. Snowfall is common through mid-March, but the last snowfall of the season usually occurs in early or mid-April. In April, the average high is 66 °F and the average low is 39 °F. In May, the average temperature is 74 °F with 46 °F for the low. Measurable snow falls on average from November 6 through April 18.
In Summer the season last from June through mid-September. The hottest months of the year are July and August, when daytime temperatures can reach around 90 °F, followed by cool nights. Summer thunderstorms can occur, with wet weather and occasional downpours. The low humidity and the altitude combine to produce a large daily range in temperatures, and rather cool nights in summer. The warmest month is July with the high temperature being around 92 °F and the low is 60 °F.
Autumn weather and climate begins in September through November. Unsettled weather and storms can be expected. The wet weather doesn't last long and it is usually a pleasant season with warm, sunny days and cool nights. During Fall, temperatures drop drastically, with a 50 °F maximum average temperature drop being experienced within three months. The first winter-like weather is usually experienced in early-to-mid October. Provo's high temperature in October is 67 °F and the low is 39 °F. The freeze-free period lasts an average of 167 days, from April 30 to October 15.
The Winter season in Provo is from November through to early March. The coldest months are December and January, when daytime temperatures drop to around 37 °F. Night temperatures are much colder and snowy weather occurs from December onwards, with heavy snowfalls in the mountains, but much less in the city. Winter temperatures are moderated by the Great Salt Lake to the north and Utah Lake to the west of the city. The Rocky Mountains to the north and east of the state serve as barriers to frigid arctic air. The temperatures in Provo seldom fall below 0 °F for any length of time. January is the coldest month in the city. In winter, the high temperature is around 37 °F and the low is 19 °F.
Sunrise on Mount Timpanogos |
Mountain Conditions
The best weather usually last from the months of July to mid-September. Summer is the normal season for these mountains but experienced climbers can climb year round. Summer temperatures can range from near 90 degrees in the daytime to 30 degrees at night. Occasional summer thundershowers can be expected.
In winter, temperatures are 30-40 degrees but can be much colder in the higher elevations. Be prepared with full winter gear if you plan on climbing any mountains.
Here is the local weather forecast for the city of Provo and the NWS website
Here is the local weather forecast for Spanish Fork and Nephi
Red Tape
These mountains are located in Uinta National Forest.
The following rules apply: Group size of 10 or less, no shortcutting trail switchbacks, and no disposing of garbage.
The Nebo Loop Scenic Byway is closed during winter.
An update on Provo Canyon road closures can be found here.
 Mount Nebo south summit looking at the middle and north summit
Driving into American Fork Canyon requires a fee at the entrance station.
$3 - 3 Days
$10.00 - 14 Days
$25.00 - Annual
Contact information can be found here.
Uinta National Forest Supervisor's Office
88 West 100 North
PO Box 1428
Provo, UT 84601
Phone: (801) 342-5100
Spanish Fork Ranger District
44 West 400 North
Spanish Fork, UT 84660
Phone: (801) 798-3571
Spanish Fork Ranger District - Nephi Office
635 North Main
Nephi, UT 84648
Phone: (435) 623-2735
Sunset from the South Peak of Mount Timpanogos |
Camping
American Fork Canyon
There are a lot of picnic areas in American Fork Canyon. Grey Cliffs picnic area is at 6,000 feet. It is near the cliffs that it is named after and is popular with rock climbers. This area has the most picnic sites in the canyon. Echo picnic area is also at 6,000 feet. Martin and Roadhouse picnic areas are both at 6,200 feet. Mile rock picnic area is located farther up in the canyon. All of these picnic areas have about 5 to 6 sites each. They are all free except for the fee at the entrance station.
The first campground in American Fork Canyon is the Little Mill campground. Little Mill is located about a mile and a half past the Timpanogos Cave visitor’s center. The campground parallels the road, as well as American Fork Creek. There are 66 campsites and numerous picnic areas. The sites are quite small and a few of them are located very close together. If you continue Northeast on 144 you’ll come to Tibble Fork Reservoir. A paved road leads from Tibble Fork to the Granite Flat camp ground. Granite Flat features 64 individual sites and several group areas. Most of the campsites are fairly spacious and well spaced. There are also three group campsites here. The individual campsites are $11.00 per night.
American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon Campgrounds Overview
Campground reservations can be made for Granite Flat Campground
Campground Reservations can be made for Little Mill Campground
Group campsites can be reserved for North Mill Campground and Altamont Campground
Provo Canyon Campgrounds
Theater in the Pines picnic area is a favorite area for people driving down Provo Canyon road. There is also a large group campsite here as well. Mount Timpanogos Campground is located 6 miles past the Sundance Ski Area and Aspen Grove. This is a good campground for people wishing to climb Mount Timpanogos the next day. The campground has 27 individual sites. The fee is $11.00 a night.
Campground reservations can be made for Mount Timpanogos Campground
Group campsites can be reserved for Theater In The Pines Campground
Squaw Peak Road Campgrounds
Squaw Peak road is the main access to many of the mountains around Provo. There are a few campgrounds in the area. Hope Campground sits at 7,700 feet and makes a good basecamp for a couple nights. There are 24 sites at this campground. Rock Canyon Campground has four large group campsites. The fee is $11.00.
Campground reservations can be made for Hope Campground and Rock Canyon Campground
Spanish Fork Peak Campgrounds
Whiting Campground is a few miles from the town of Mapleton. To get there, drive on I-15, and take the South Springville exit. Continue 2 miles to intersection of Main Street and 400 South. Turn south onto Main Street, staying in the right lane toward Highway 89/Price. Turn north onto Main Street, follow it to 400 North. It is the regular trailhead for Spanish Fork Peak. This area is nice and never seems very crowded. There are about 25 sites available here. The fee is $11.00 a night.
Spanish Fork to Mount Nebo Campgrounds Overview
Campground reservations can be made for Whiting Campground
Nebo Scenic Byway Campgrounds
Nebo Scenic Byway has many places to camp. Maple Bench campground is located down low on the scenic loop. It has ten sites on a first come - first serve basis. Bear Canyon campground is at 6,800 feet and has group campsites and a few individual sites. Payson Lakes Campground is a good place to stay if you want to climb Santaquin and Loafer Mountain or Mount Nebo. There are over 100 sites available and a few group campsites as well. Blackhawk Campground is located at 8,000 feet. There are a dozen single sites and group sites here. Ponderosa Campground is located at 6,200 feet and is near the trailhead to Mount Nebo.
Campground Reservations can be made for Blackhawk Campground
Campground Reservations can be made for Bear Canyon Campground
Campground Reservations can be made for Payson Lakes Campground and Ponderosa Campground
Backcountry Camping Regulations:
1) Camp 1/2 mile from any road, 200 feet from any water source, and 200 feet from any trail.
2) Group size of 10 or less people.
3) Practice leave no trace techniques.
Books and Maps
Utah Mountaineering Guide
By Michael R. Kelsey. Descriptions are brief but this is the best book available for an overall guide to many of the major mountains in Utah. There is a sketch map and photo of each peak. He also describes winter routes up many of the mountains.
Climbing and Exploring Mount Timpanogos
By Michael R. Kelsey. This book has everything you ever wanted to know about Mount Timpanogos. It has hiking and climbing information for the whole area and a complete history of the mountain.
Wasatch Eleveners Climbing Guide
By Randy Winters aka Summitpost member rmjwinters. This is a new book that is about climbing all of the 11,000 foot peaks in the Wasatch Mountains.
High In Utah (County Highpoints)
By Michael Weibel. Utah County Highpointers book has information on climbing all 26 mountains in the state.
Utah Atlas and Gazetter
Delorme Atlas Book that is very detailed and is a must for anyone planning on doing a lot of hiking and climbing in Utah.
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