On a sweltering July afternoon, families and outdoor enthusiasts flocked to the Provo River Parkway Trail, only to encounter a bottleneck at Bridal Veil Falls.

 

The narrow, makeshift footbridge at the base of the falls became a congestion point, with cyclists, runners, and pedestrians vying for space.

 

Children splashed in the pool, while others climbed the slippery rocks, creating a chaotic scene.

 

This congestion has intensified since an avalanche in early 2023 destroyed the previous, wider bridge, leading to increased safety concerns and frequent bike-pedestrian collisions.

 

In response, Utah County is actively pursuing a land exchange with the U.S. Forest Service to gain control over approximately 39 acres surrounding Bridal Veil Falls.

 

The county proposes swapping this land for 78 acres it owns near Vivian Park.

 

This exchange aims to streamline maintenance and facilitate the development of safety improvements.

 

Commissioner Skyler Beltran emphasized the urgency of addressing the safety issues, stating, "One of the main reasons we're even doing this is to remove bike traffic from the base of the falls so there's no conflict between bikers and viewers and pedestrians."

 

Plans include constructing a separate bridge for cyclists to divert them away from the congested viewing area, thereby enhancing safety for all visitors.

 

Additionally, the county intends to build a pavilion with picnic tables and improve existing trails.

 

These enhancements are designed to minimize environmental impact and allow for cost-effective rebuilding in the event of future avalanches.

 

The estimated cost for these projects ranges between $4 million and $5 million, funded through the county's transient room tax.

 

Public hearings will be held to gather community input and finalize the plans.

 

Bridal Veil Falls, a 607-foot double cataract waterfall, has a rich history of public enjoyment.

 

In 2020, the Utah County Commission placed the area under a conservation easement to prevent private development, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

 

As Utah County moves forward with these plans, the goal remains clear: to enhance the natural beauty and accessibility of Bridal Veil Falls while prioritizing public safety and enjoyment.