Utah
Nature|Hiking

Upper Bells Canyon Reservoir Is A Magical Place In Utah That You Thought Only Existed In Your Dreams

Upper Bells Canyon Reservoir in Utah offers a challenging hike with stunning views, a waterfall, and a picturesque reservoir.

Published Apr 11, 2023

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

Utah has no shortage of magical, scenic destinations. From our national parks to our breathtaking canyons, you will find some truly awe-inspiring scenery in every corner of the Beehive State. However, there is one destination that is stunning in every way and you may not even know exists — Upper Bells Canyon Reservoir. This beautiful reservoir requires a bit of effort to reach, but the journey itself is inspiring and you’ll pass all types of incredible views and natural features along your way.

Tucked away in the Wasatch Mountains and near the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, you will find the Bells Canyon Granite Trailhead. The beginning of this trail is quite popular as it takes you to the well-known Bells Canyon Waterfall but to witness some truly dream-like landscapes, you’ll want to keep going.

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Adam Howell/AllTrails

To complete this trail in its entirety, you will hike approximately nine miles. It isn’t an easy trek and you’ll certainly encounter some difficult portions of the trail.

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David Waller/AllTrails

The first two miles are quite busy as you will pass hikers venturing toward the beautiful Bells Canyon Waterfall. This is a gorgeous destination and the perfect place to stop and relax before continuing on your way.

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Brandon Rasmussen/Flickr

The next several miles are where the trail becomes much more challenging. You’ll face steep inclines, rock scrambling, and a less-trafficked trail. However, this is also where you will find some of the most astounding views with granite walls surrounding you.

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Brandon Rasmussen/Flickr

Hiker’s tip: This portion of the trail is absolutely stunning during the fall and is a magical leaf-peeping destination.

You will eventually reach the final destination — Bells Canyon Reservoir. The beautiful water and mountain landscapes are truly one of a kind. This area is picturesque, mesmerizing, and inspiring — it’ll be hard to leave.

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Brandon Rasmussen/Flickr

You’ll feel like you are walking in a dream as you explore Bells Canyon Reservoir Trail. With a waterfall, views, and a small body of water, it’s one adventure you’ll be grateful you tackled.

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Firebear Ottley/Google

Have you ever explored this trail in the Wasatch Mountains? What did you enjoy most about this hike? Let us know in the comments. For another trail in Utah that takes you to inspiring landscapes, check out the Red Reef Trail in southern Utah.

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Nature|Hiking

The Completely Free Art Panel Hiding in a Utah Park is a Must-Visit

The Rochester Panel is one of three sites that make up the San Rafael Swell. It's a short and sweet hike to view it.

Published Oct 23, 2024

Written by 

Jackie Sutherlin

The Rochester Panel is one of three sites that make up the San Rafael Swell. Goblin Valley is certainly the most popular out of the three, its surreal rock structures are a beautiful sight. The Wedge’s incredible valleys, canyons, and gorges are so magnificent, that its nickname is the Little Grand Canyon. 

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But the third site, the Rochester Panel, is often overlooked by tourists in favor of the other two, and that’s a shame! Many believe this rock art to be the most unique rock art in Utah! The hike to reach the panel is only about half a mile, and it’s completely free. 

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Michael Fisher/All Trails

With any trail, I’m always going to have my AllTrails + account open before I reach the trailhead. The Rochester Panel trail is mostly well-marked and easy to follow, but it’s always better to come prepared. Especially in Utah’s wilderness. 

The out-and-back-trail clocks in at just shy of one mile with an elevation gain of 98 feet. Like many hiking trails in this area, there is very little/no shade. A wide-brim hat and sunglasses are always part of my hiking essentials, and of course, sunscreen. 

The hike to the petroglyphs is fairly scenic, and overall a moderate hike. Once you read the petroglyphs, prepare to be amazed! These figures were made by many cultures over time, including prehistoric groups all the way up to early settlers. 

It’s a fascinating site to see in person. You could sit here for hours just admiring these drawings. Some of them are 2,000 years old! Pack a lunch, sit for a spell, and think about the first people who marked these rocks. What do you think this area looked like 2,000 years ago?

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Ryan Moreau/All Trails

As you’re admiring the petroglyphs, you’ll notice some…modern additions. Since apparently we can’t have nice things, I feel the need to remind everyone not to do this. Do not write on the panels, do not add your initials, and don’t even touch them. Take all the photographs you want, but leave it as you found it so future generations can enjoy it, too. 

Because there’s little shade, I’d recommend viewing the Rochester Panel early in the morning or closer to dusk to avoid that mid-day sun. This is a great trail for the spring and fall, though it’s not impossible to tackle in the winter. You’ll just have to make sure your vehicle can reach the trailhead. 

Share this article with someone you want to visit the Rochester Panel with and start planning your adventure today. 

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Nature|Hiking

Hike to a Remote Waterfall in Utah for an Unforgettable Adventure

To view Mistress Falls near Provo, Utah, come prepared for steep inclines, rock scrambling, and unforgettable adventures.

Published Sep 27, 2024

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

I love chasing waterfalls. In fact, my favorite hike is easily the Calf Creek Falls Trail in southern Utah. Although, tucked away near Provo is another waterfall hike that you’ll want to check out — Mistress Falls. This trail is short — approximately one mile long — but it’s filled with adventure. You’ll want to prepare for some rock scrambling, steep inclines, and possibly a little bushwacking. It’s not a hike for beginners but if you have the experience, it’s one that’s full of excitement.

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Mistress Falls is a lesser-known waterfall in Provo Canyon. To witness this beautiful waterfall in person, you’ll want to grab your hiking gear and head to Upper Falls Park. You’ll take the Upper Falls Trail for a portion of this hike. This trail is well-maintained and popular and takes you to the lovely Upper Falls.

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Sarah Burke/AllTrails

Once you reach the base of Upper Falls, you’ll notice a very narrow trail. This is the trail to Mistress Falls. It will take you west and you’ll follow along the ridge of a mountain.

This portion of the trail is not like what you will find on your way to Upper Falls. Here, you'll come across very loose rocks and overgrown areas. You'll also want to prepare for some steep climbs. It is strongly recommended to bring hiking poles for this part of the journey to keep your footing — it’s quite difficult. You may feel like you are climbing straight up a mountain.

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Todd Allison/AllTrails

Safety is of utmost importance. You will want closed-toed footwear to protect your feet from the rocks and roots. Also, because this leg of your hike is less traveled, it can be easy to lose your way. We recommend using resources like AllTrails+, which allows you to download a trail map.

However, despite the challenge, the views of Mistress Falls are mesmerizing. The water is magical as it falls down the steep cliff walls. You’ll likely have the area all to yourself as the majority of hikers will stop at Upper Falls and not make the climb to Mistress Falls.

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Leah Jeppson/AllTrails

At the top, you’ll also find a large rock where you can sit and enjoy the view. It’s pretty spectacular.

Mistress Falls is the type of adventure you must be prepared to take and it may challenge you more than you expect. However, the views are quite extraordinary. Take a few breaks and enjoy the experience.

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Lucy Davis/AllTrails

For more information about the Mistress Falls Trail near Provo, Utah, visit AllTrails.

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Have you ever hiked to Mistress Falls? What was your experience like? What is your favorite waterfall hike in Utah? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you.  

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