Winter Hiking Guide to Stewart Falls Trail | Provo Canyon, Utah
GETTING THERE | OVERVIEW | WHAT TO EXPECT | VIDEO
3.5 MILE OUT & BACK | ELEVATION GAIN 652 ft | MODERATE | ANYTIME
OVERVIEW
Stewart Falls is one of Utah’s most picturesque waterfalls, and it’s an incredible sight during the winter months when the falls freeze into a stunning cascade of ice. Located in Provo Canyon near Sundance Resort, this hike offers a unique winter adventure for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
This guide will help you plan your winter hike to Stewart Falls with essential information on getting there, trail conditions, and safety tips.
Avalanche Awareness
Winter hiking in Utah has inherent risks, and the Stewart Falls trail is no exception. While the trail is generally considered safe, some sections pass near avalanche-prone areas. Before heading out, check current avalanche conditions on the Utah Avalanche Center’s website.
I recommend signing up for their email updates to receive daily information on avalanche risk.
GETTING THERE
Head to Sundance Mountain Resort in Provo Canyon to access the Stewart Falls trailhead. From U.S. Highway 189, turn onto the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway (State Route 92) and follow the signs toward Sundance. The trail begins at the Aspen Grove Trailhead, located in the same parking lot as the Mount Timpanogos trail (Aspen Grove side).
To find the Stewart Falls trail, stay to the left just behind the restrooms. The trail starts with a steep incline, but a rope is available to assist hikers. If you’re wearing microspikes for traction, you likely won’t need the rope.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Winter transforms the Stewart Falls Trail into a serene wonderland. As you hike, you’ll pass through groves of aspen and pine trees blanketed in snow. Along the way, the trail offers breathtaking views of Mount Timpanogos and the surrounding Provo Canyon.
The winter hike to Stewart Falls is about 3.5 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of 600 feet. It’s considered moderate in difficulty. While the trail is snow-covered during the winter months, it’s often well-traveled and packed down by other hikers, making it easier to follow. However, icy sections are common, so proper traction gear is recommended.
The hike begins with a relatively easy stretch through a snow-covered forest but becomes more challenging with a steep ascent to the falls. This uphill section is sure to raise your heart rate and makes the hike out more strenuous. The entire hike typically takes 2–3 hours to complete.
The highlight of the hike is, of course, Stewart Falls itself. In winter, the waterfall freezes into a stunning display of ice columns and frosty layers. The icy blues and whites of the frozen cascade create a breathtaking sight, making it a favorite for photographers and an unforgettable winter destination.
While the summer trail to Stewart Falls is well-loved, winter adds a magical stillness and beauty to the landscape. The frozen falls create a dramatic, otherworldly scene that makes the uphill effort worth it. Plus, the quieter trail and crisp mountain air provide a peaceful escape from the crowds.