If you live in Provo, the outdoors is basically your backyard. Within half an hour you can be at a waterfall, a hot spring, a mountain reservoir, or an overlook above the valley. Outdoor dates are active and scenic, and they give you plenty to talk about.
Here are outdoor date ideas near Provo, grouped by effort level. Always check trail conditions and weather, carry water, and let someone know your plan, especially on a first date.
Easy (good for first dates)
Bridal Veil Falls
A tall, multi-tiered waterfall in Provo Canyon right beside the Provo River Parkway. The viewing area is a short walk from parking, so it works for almost anyone.
Provo River Parkway
A paved trail along the river from Utah Lake into the canyon. Walk or bike a section and turn around whenever you like.
Utah Lake State Park at sunset
Flat, open views to the west make this one of the best sunset spots in the valley. There is a day-use fee.
Cascade Springs
Short boardwalk loops over clear, terraced springs off the Alpine Loop. Beautiful in summer and fall. The road closes in winter.
Moderate
Stewart Falls
A popular hike to a two-tiered waterfall below Mount Timpanogos, usually started from the Aspen Grove area near Sundance. Plan on a couple of hours round trip with some elevation change.
Battle Creek Falls
A short but steady climb from Kiwanis Park in Pleasant Grove to a waterfall that runs strongest in spring and early summer.
Rock Canyon
Starting at the edge of northeast Provo, the trail climbs into a dramatic canyon popular with climbers. Go as far as you like and turn around.
Fifth Water Hot Springs
In Diamond Fork Canyon east of Spanish Fork. The hike is a few miles round trip and ends at milky-blue pools and small waterfalls. Go early or on a weekday to avoid crowds, and pack out everything you bring.
Harder (for active couples)
The Y trail
Short but steep switchbacks up to the giant Y above BYU, with a big view of Provo and Utah Lake. It is a real workout, so go early or near sunset in the summer heat.
Mount Timpanogos
A long, full-day summit hike for experienced hikers in summer and early fall. Not a first date, but a great goal date once you know you both love the mountains.
Water and drives
River tubing or paddleboarding
In summer, outfitters in Provo Canyon offer tubing on the Provo River, and nearby Deer Creek Reservoir is popular for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Alpine Loop drive
A winding scenic byway past Timpanogos and Sundance that connects American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon. Stunning in fall, closed in winter.
Hobble Creek Canyon
A quieter canyon east of Springville with picnic areas along the creek. Great for a low-key picnic date.
Planning an outdoor date
Match the trail to the date. Early dates should be short and easy, with a clear end point and maybe a food stop afterward. Save long hikes for later, once you know each other's pace.
Be specific about what to bring: shoes, water, a layer, a swimsuit for hot springs. Share the trailhead name and start time. A clear plan helps the other person prepare and decide quickly.
Post or request a plan like this on Rove
On Rove, every date starts as a specific plan. Here are a few plans inspired by this page. Men can post one like it, and women can browse and request the ones that sound fun.
- “Stewart Falls hike, then burgers. Saturday at 9 a.m. Bring water and good shoes.”
- “Bridal Veil Falls and a walk on the parkway. Wednesday at 6:30.”
- “Sunset at Utah Lake State Park with a picnic dinner. Friday at 7.”
Frequently asked questions
What is an easy hike near Provo for a date?
Bridal Veil Falls and Cascade Springs are very easy. Stewart Falls and Battle Creek Falls are moderate and still manageable for most people.
Is the Y trail a good first date?
It can be if you are both active, but it is short and steep. For most first dates, an easier walk like Bridal Veil Falls is a better choice.
What should I bring on a hiking date?
Water, sturdy shoes, sun protection, a light layer, and snacks. Let someone know where you are going, and check the weather and trail conditions before you leave.
