Discover the elevation of Provo—perched at 4,551 feet above sea level in central Utah. Provo is a dynamic city surrounded by rugged mountains and rivers, steeped in Native American and Mormon pioneer history, and known for its educational institutions and scenic recreation areas.

Table of Contents

Where is Provo?

  • Location: Provo is located in central Utah and serves as the county seat of Utah County.

City Profile

  • Size: Covers an area of 44.2 square miles, making it the third largest city in Utah.
  • Population: Home to around 117,000 residents, with over 526,000 in the surrounding metro area including Orem.
  • Significance: Provo is a major educational and cultural center, home to Brigham Young University and the world’s largest Mormon Missionary Training Center.

Elevation Basics

  • Original name: Originally called Timpanogots, named after the Timpanogos tribe and the Provo River.
  • First European explorer: Father Silvestre Vélez de Escalante was the first European to trade with the Timpanogos people in the area.
  • City founding: Provo was founded in 1849 by Mormon settlers as Fort Utah.
  • Provo War: A conflict between Mormon settlers and the Timpanogos, resulting in the latter’s displacement and city expansion.
  • Name origin: Named after French-Canadian trapper Étienne Provost.
  • Mormon importance: A spiritual hub due to the Provo Utah Temple and Missionary Training Center.
  • Recreation: Surrounded by natural landmarks like Bridal Veil Falls, Mount Timpanogos, and Utah Lake offering outdoor activities like climbing, fishing, and kayaking.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Definition: Elevation is a measurement of height above sea level, crucial in determining climate and landscape features.
  • Provo’s elevation: 4,551 feet (1,387 m) above sea level—high by national standards.
  • U.S. comparison: The U.S. average is 2,500 feet (760 m), making Provo over 2,000 feet higher.
  • Why other U.S. cities are lower: Many are near coastlines, while Provo is inland and mountainous.
  • Utah state average: Utah averages 6,100 feet (1,860 m), so Provo is lower than the state mean.
  • Highest point in Utah: Kings Peak – 13,534 feet (4,125 m).
  • Lowest point in Utah: Beaver Dam Wash – 2,180 feet (664 m), near the Arizona border.
  • Highest city in Utah: Brian Head at 9,800 feet (2,987 m).
  • City comparisons:
    • Salt Lake City: 4,226 feet (1,288 m)
    • West Valley City: 4,304 feet (1,312 m)
    • West Jordan: 4,373 feet (1,333 m)

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Provo has a humid continental climate, influenced by its high elevation.
  • Seasons: Experiences four distinct seasons, from hot summers to snowy winters.
  • Summer temperatures: July highs average around 93°F (34°C).
  • Winter temperatures: January lows average 22°F (-5°C).
  • Snowfall: Provo receives over 57 inches of snow annually, mostly between November and March.
  • Outdoor activities: Ideal for hiking, kayaking, fishing, skiing, and exploring the Provo Canyon, Utah Lake, and Bridal Veil Falls.
  • Other attractions: Offers parks, museums, event venues, and vibrant festivals throughout the year.

Plan Your Trip