The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Provo

Our guide features 6 carefully selected family-friendly hiking trails around Provo, ranging from easy strolls to moderate adventures. These routes are perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes of the Wasatch Front and Provo Canyon with your loved ones.

Yes, Provo offers several easy trails perfect for families with young children. For a gentle and scenic outing, consider the Fort Utah Greenway – Provo River Parkway loop from Dixon Middle School, which offers a pleasant 5.7 km walk along the river. Another great option is the Utah Lake State Park – Provo River Parkway loop from Utah Lake State Park, providing easy access to the lake's shoreline.

Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly routes around Provo are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. Examples include the Fort Utah Greenway – Provo River Parkway loop from Dixon Middle School and the Fort Utah Greenway – Provo River Parkway loop from Utah Valley Hospital, both providing enjoyable circular paths along the Provo River.

Yes, Provo is home to some beautiful waterfalls that are accessible via family-friendly trails. While not directly part of the routes in this guide, popular options nearby include Stewart Falls and Battle Creek Falls, both known for their scenic beauty and relatively easy access. The magnificent Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon is also easily accessible via a flat, short trail, making it a perfect family destination.

Many of the trails follow the scenic Provo River, offering beautiful riverside views. You can also enjoy views of Mount Timpanogos from various points, including the Utah Lake State Park. The BYU Botany Pond (Duck Pond) loop from Provo offers a chance to visit the Bertrand F. Harrison Arboretum and Botany Pond, a lovely spot for nature observation.

Provo offers great hiking opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, though it can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended. Some trails, especially those at higher elevations, may have snow in winter, but lower elevation paths like the Provo River Parkway are often accessible year-round.

Many trails in the Provo area, particularly multi-use paths like sections of the Provo River Parkway, are dog-friendly, usually requiring dogs to be on a leash. However, specific regulations can vary by trail and park. It's always a good idea to check local signage or the Provo City website for the most current rules regarding pets on trails. For more information on local outdoor activities, you can visit provo.gov/Outdoor-Activities.

Yes, parking is generally available at or near the starting points for these family-friendly trails. For routes like those along the Provo River Parkway, you'll find parking areas at various access points, including Utah Lake State Park and near Dixon Middle School. We recommend checking the specific route details on komoot for precise parking information before you head out.

Public transport options to trailheads in Provo can vary. The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) provides bus services throughout Provo, and some routes may offer stops within walking distance of certain trail access points, especially for trails closer to urban areas like the Provo River Parkway. For detailed public transport information and route planning, it's best to consult the UTA website or a local transport app.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hiking experiences in Provo, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Hikers frequently praise the accessibility of the trails, the beautiful riverside scenery, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable outings with children. The variety of easy loops and the stunning backdrop of the Wasatch Front are often highlighted as favorite aspects.

While not all trails are universally accessible, the Provo River Parkway Trail is largely paved and flat, making many sections suitable for strollers and potentially wheelchairs. This multi-use trail follows the Provo River and offers a smooth surface for a comfortable family outing. Always check specific trail conditions for the most up-to-date accessibility information.