Spanish Fork Trail is an easy to follow trail with a big elevation gain. Since Spanish Fork Peak is one of the peaks in Utah with big prominence, the rewards of dramatic views will be granted. Along the way, there is a pond locals call a lake surrounded by scenic meadows.
Follow the Left Fork Maple Canyon trail for half a mile keeping a sharp eye out for a trail on the right. Just after turning right, you'll cross the stream and start your climb up the Right Fork of Maple Canyon. In places, the trail is very steep and very rocky. All this is in the shade of fir and aspen trees. About the time you start wondering if it's worth it, you'll reach Maple Lake at 8,750 feet. Now you enjoy meadows as the trail climbs up to the ridge. Along the ridge, the trail re-enters some forests as it works its way over to the correct summit. A final climb up to the summit has open slopes with views of Utah County. The summit has one of the 10 foot metal triangulation markers over the benchmark.
Distance: 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 4,600 feet
Summit Elevation: 10,192 feet
Access: Paved
Spanish Fork Peak
WillhiteWeb.com: Utah Hiking & Climbing
Access:
Route:
Take I-15 exit 260. Go east on W400S into Springville until Main Street (US-89). Turn right (south) until W1600N where you need to turn left. Follow this until Mapleton's Main Street. Go right (south again) for several blocks looking for a final left onto E400N (sign for Whiting Campground). This road will take you into Maple Canyon and the trailhead at the far end of the campground.
Talus and meadows
Looking south to Loafer Mountain and Mt. Nebo
Summit of Spanish Fork Peak with Provo Peaks in distance
Trail up Spanish Fork Peak
Getting into the alpine area of Spanish Fork Peak
Trail up Spanish Fork Peak
The trail just below the summit
Looking North
First views
First views of the peak
Spanish Fork Peak
Pond along the trail
Looking North to Provo Peak area
Looking South
Spanish Fork
The ridge south
Summit triangulation station
Looking west