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The Y Trail

Provo, Utah

3.5/5
based on 12 reviews

Details

Distance

2.29 miles

Elevation Gain

1063 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Annelise A

A hike to the top of the iconic Y on the mountain overlooking Provo, Utah.

Hiking the Y is a classic hike in Provo, Utah—but don't expect it to be easy! There's no shade and not much greenery, so it's a hot, dusty trek to the top. Once you reach the Y, though, the view of the Provo and Utah Lake is amazing. There are also benches at the top.

When you reach the Y, you will first come to a point about halfway up the Y. You can stop here or keep going up the fork in the trail to your right up to the top of the Y. You can go out and walk/sit/dance on the Y itself, but be careful as it is very steep.

If you hike at night, you'll avoid the heat! Just be prepared—night or day—for steep switchbacks all the way up. There are bathrooms and parking at the trailhead; if the parking lot is full (this is a popular hike!), you can always park on the side of the road leading up to the parking lot.

Many people also run this trail—definitely a good workout whether you're running or hiking!

Directions: 

From 900 East, turn east on 820 North, keep to the left, the street will change to Oakmont Lane, take a right onto Oak Cliff Drive, then a right on Terrace, finally a left into the parking lot.

Coordinates:

  • TH 40.2448, -111.627
  • Y Mountain 40.2483, -111.621
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Features

Fitness
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Food Nearby
Scenic

The Y Trail Reviews

It’s a hard but close hike to BYU and sentimental to hike to the Y. You can also hike to the top of Y mountain. It’s about 6-8 miles to the top and back down. It’s a better view from the top and makes the hard switchbacks more worth it. To get to the top of Y Mountain, if you hike to the top of the Y and you’ll see the trail take off to the right and it will hook to the back of the mountain. It is a pretty steep climb all the way up, so your calves are going to be burning. Sitting on top of the mountain looking at the valley makes it worth it.

This is a classic hike to be sure, and it’s fun with a group of friends, but if you’re willing to travel just a bit further, there are much more rewarding and scenic hikes nearby.

This is the go to provo hike. It’s fine, but not great. Short and steep with a good view at the end but a bit boring overall. Good for a quick fix.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike to Buckley's Abandoned Mine

Snowshoe the Rock Canyon Trail

Hike Squaw Peak

Rock Climb in Rock Canyon

Hike to the Summit of Buckley Mountain

Buffalo Peak Trail