The well-known ‘Y’ hike in Provo is only the start of something much more beautiful and fulfilling: the Slide Canyon Trail up to Y Mountain.
Overview: Often missed or casually disregarded, the trail leads southeast from the top of the ‘Y’ to Slide Canyon. After hiking through dense scrub oak and lovely alpine aspen, you are rewarded with excellent views of the surrounding mountains and of Utah Valley. You owe it to yourself to try it!
After leading up from the ‘Y’ across the western face of Y mountain, the narrow but well worn trail bends eastward into the less-exposed Slide Canyon. The dense foliage can make the upper part of the trail especially dark during early-morning or late-night runs, so be mindful to bring a good headlamp if you go during either of those times.
Trail Details:
Length: 5.75 miles round trip.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Dog-Friendly: Yes.
Location: The trailhead sits above the neighborhoods east of BYU campus in Provo. If you are on University Avenue, drive to 800 N and turn east. Follow 800 N until it ends on 700 E. By taking a left, you will find 820 N immediately to your right. Turn east onto 820 N and follow it as it heads up the side of the mountain and turns into Oakmont Lane. Turn right onto Oak Cliff Drive, then right again onto Terrace Drive. Follow Terrace Drive until you come to the ‘Y’ Mountain parking lot.
GPS Coordinates:
Trailhead: (N) 40.244845, (W) -111.627381
The ‘Y’: (N) 40.248209, (W) -111.620038
Bear Flat: (N) 40.247746,(W) -111.603721
Viewpoint: (N) 40.254630, (W) -111.611020
Summit: (N)40.256622, (W) -111.606866