Stewart Falls (also called Stewarts Cascades) is located just past Sundance Ski Resort in Provo Canyon is one of the most scenic waterfalls in Utah! The trail is so beautiful. So much greenery.
This trail is pretty easy and doable with kids and dogs! You have to option to go down to the bottom of Stewart Falls or climb close to the top. There is a little pool you can sit in the middle of the falls if you are feeling up to it!
The trail is officially called the Stewart Cascade Trail.
Stewart Falls Utah Details:
- Distance: 3.2-mile out-and-back trail
- Duration: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Elevation gain:
- Challenges: A few trees to climb over but the trail is pretty clear.
- Cost: $6 fee paid at booth, unless you have a National Parks Pass, then it’s free.
- Other: Dogs are allowed on the trail.
Stewart Falls Parking
The parking access will cost you $6 for a 3 day pass. If the toll booth is closed when you enter you will most likely come back with a sign on your car saying you need to pay.
Stewart Falls Trailhead
There are bathrooms (glorified porta potties), they were pretty gross when I was there. They are located at the trailhead. The Timpanogos Trailhead is also located at the Stewart Falls Trailhead.
Stewart Falls Trail: What to Expect on the Actual Trail
The hike is easy to moderate. The trail is up-and-down trail (not uphill the whole way there) gained about 760ft in elevation as well as lost 750ft in elevation, which I had to get back on the return hike.
It took me 40 minutes to get from the bottom of the falls back to my car. Although the trail is up and down there is definitely a larger portion that is up on the way there making it easier to do going back.
Expect gorgeous views most of the way!
Also worth noting, I had service the entire trail. Obviously it depends on your provider, but it was nice to have.
Beginning of Trail
The trail begins to the right of the bathrooms. You will see signs saying the “Stewart Cascade Trail”. Follow those signs from the parking lot.
Note: There are several trails that begin near the parking lot, so make sure to look for the sign that reads “Stewart Cascades.”
It begins flat and then has a steady incline for about 15 minutes.
You will run into some fallen over trees you will have to climb over but other than that the trail is fairly easy and very doable.
End of Trail
The last part of the trail gets a little rocky but the views out to the valley are incredible!
Hiking down to the river
This is the steepest part of the trail. You will come to a large rock and for the first time see Stewart Falls clearly. You will feel like you should go right at this point to get down to the falls but the trail down is actually off to the left. It only takes a few minutes, if that to get down to the bottom of the waterfall.
Once you make it down you will be able to roam around freely! You can even swim in the river or stand at the bottom of the falls for photos! With so many hikes in Utah banning swimming it is so nice to be able to have the freedom to get in the water.
Once at the river you might notice that the trail that goes downstream alongside the runoff from the falls. If you follow this trail it will take you to Sundance Resort. You can also hike up to the Falls from Sundance.
Hiking up to the middle of Stewart Falls
This part is the most steep and slippery. The rocks will be wet and climbing up there isn’t a lot to hold onto. The gravel/rocks slide very easily making it easy to lose your footing. I definitely would not do this in flip flops.
Crowds
I went on a Monday afternoon and there was hardly anyone there. Around 5 pm or so a lot more people started coming. If you want to avoid the crowds I recommend avoiding the weekends and going early before everyone gets off work.
Shade Cover
The first half of the trail is mostly shaded and the second half is partially shaded. How much shade you have on the trail will also depend on the time of day and positioning of the sun.
Other Trails Nearby:
Alpine Scenic Loop – incredible in the fall!
Timpanogos Trail – Shares the same trailhead as Stewart Falls.
Scout Falls