Description: this lovely hike from the Squaw Peak Overlook to Buffalo Peak, which towers just above Squaw Peak (to the northeast) provides WORLD CLASS VIEWS in every direction! You can also reach it via a very short hike (.9 miles, 275' elevation gain) up from the Camel Pass dirt road (that goes from Hope Campground to Hobble Creek Left Fork).
Distance: about 2.3 miles, or .9 miles the short way.
Elevation gain: 1400' gain, to 8029' above sea level, or 275' gain from the dirt road route.
Steepness: medium/gentle, except for the very very last couple hundred feet which is quite steep.
Notable Features: VIEWS GALORE! Also all the green is quite refreshing in summer and absolutely gorgeous when it turns in the fall.
Amenities: none.
Fees: none.
When to go: year round, but especially spring, summer and fall.
Directions: Drive up Provo Canyon to the Squaw Peak Overlook road about 1.8 miles up on the right (pole canyon). Once you wind your way for 4 miles to nearly the top, keep right to the Squaw Peak Overlook. From the parking lot, either take the trail from the far/south end, or walk a few more steps counter-clockwise to the highest point of the pavement, and take the trail southwest from there. Once that trail leads to the dirt road, continue on the road around the next bend, then take the trail to your right.
You can also turn left at the T and drive 2.9 more miles until the road starts dropping down into Rock Canyon. There are a couple trailheads on your right/west from there, through the gap in a wood fence.
If you're in the mood for a lot more elevation and mileage, you could also hike up Rock Canyon to access the same trailhead.
Photos:
Mountains, lakes and other features accessed: You can look down at Squaw Peak and look around at everything else, but they're not really accessible from here.
Connecting & cross trails:
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