Provo Travel Guide



Introduction:

Provo is a charming and picturesque city situated in the state of Utah. It is a city that boasts a plethora of outdoor activities and attractions, making it an ideal destination for travelers who love nature and adventure. From breathtaking mountains to sparkling lakes, there's no shortage of natural wonders to explore in Provo. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at some of the best things to do in Provo and provide some helpful tips for making the most out of your visit.

Getting to Provo:

Provo is located about 45 minutes south of Salt Lake City, Utah's capital city. The easiest way to get to Provo is by flying into Salt Lake City International Airport and then renting a car to drive to Provo. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle service from the airport to Provo, but renting a car will give you more flexibility to explore the area.

Things to do in Provo:

Hike to the top of Mount Timpanogos:
Mount Timpanogos is the second-highest peak in the Wasatch Mountains and one of the most popular hiking destinations in Provo. The trail to the top of Mount Timpanogos is a challenging 14-mile round trip that takes most hikers between eight and ten hours to complete. Along the way, you'll pass by scenic waterfalls, wildflowers, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Utah Valley.

Visit Bridal Veil Falls:
Bridal Veil Falls is a beautiful waterfall located just a few miles outside of Provo. The waterfall drops 607 feet and is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky cliffs. There is a paved path that leads up to the base of the falls, making it an easy and enjoyable hike for visitors of all ages. There are also picnic tables and a playground area for families to enjoy.

Take a scenic drive through Provo Canyon:
Provo Canyon is a stunningly beautiful canyon that runs from Provo to Heber City. The canyon is famous for its towering cliffs, winding river, and abundance of wildlife. The scenic drive through Provo Canyon is a must-do activity for visitors to Provo, and there are several lookout points along the way where you can stop and take in the breathtaking views.

Explore the BYU campus:
Brigham Young University is located in Provo and is one of the most beautiful college campuses in the United States. The campus is home to several impressive buildings, including the Harold B. Lee Library and the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the campus or join a guided tour led by a current BYU student.

Go fishing on the Provo River:
The Provo River is one of the best fishing spots in Utah and is home to a variety of fish, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout. There are several fly fishing companies in Provo that offer guided trips on the Provo River, and the river is easily accessible for visitors who want to fish on their own.

Visit the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum:
The Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum is located on the BYU campus and is home to an impressive collection of animals and insects from around the world. The museum is named after Monte L. Bean, a BYU graduate who was a successful businessman and an avid collector of wildlife. The museum features exhibits on the world's ecosystems, conservation efforts, and the diversity of life on Earth.

Go rock climbing at Rock Canyon:
Rock Canyon is a popular rock climbing destination located just a few miles outside of Provo. The canyon is home to over 150 climbing routes, ranging in difficulty from beginner to advanced. There are several climbing companies in Provo that offer guided climbs in Rock Canyon, as well as equipment rentals for experienced climbers.

Visit the BYU Museum of Art:
The BYU Museum of Art is a world-class art museum located on the BYU campus. The museum features a wide range of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photography, from various time periods and cultures. The museum also hosts several temporary exhibits throughout the year, making it a great destination for art lovers.

Go skiing or snowboarding at Sundance Resort:
Sundance Resort is a ski resort located just a few miles outside of Provo. The resort is owned by actor Robert Redford and features over 45 runs, ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Sundance Resort also offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and other winter activities.

Visit the Provo City Center Temple:
The Provo City Center Temple is a historic temple located in downtown Provo. The temple was originally built in 1883 as a tabernacle for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but was later converted into a temple in 2016. The temple is open to visitors, and tours are available to learn about the history and significance of the building.

Tips for Visiting Provo:

Plan your trip in advance:
Provo is a popular destination, especially during the summer months when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. It's important to plan your trip in advance and make reservations for activities, accommodations, and restaurants to avoid disappointment.

Dress in layers:
Utah's weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. It's best to dress in layers and bring a jacket or sweater, even on warm days, as temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations.

Bring sunscreen and bug spray:
Provo is known for its sunny weather and abundance of outdoor activities, which means you'll need to protect your skin from the sun and bugs. Bring sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and bug spray to prevent mosquito bites and other insect bites.

Rent a car:
While there are shuttle services available, renting a car will give you more flexibility to explore the area and visit nearby attractions.

Respect nature and wildlife:
Provo is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, and moose. It's important to respect nature and wildlife and keep a safe distance. Never approach or feed wild animals, and always dispose of your trash properly to prevent wildlife from becoming habituated to human food.

Conclusion:

Provo is a hidden gem in the state of Utah, offering a wide range of outdoor activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From hiking to skiing, Provo has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. By following these tips and planning your trip in advance, you'll be able to make the most out of your visit to Provo and create memories that will last a lifetime.