The Ghost of Rock Canyon

The Ghosts of Rock Canyon

Despite the sunlit hills and wildflowers along the popular hiking and rocking climbing destination of Rock Canyon in Provo, Utah, this canyon has a dark, sinister side. The canyon is riddled with a tragic history. In 1850, after years of conflict, battle sprang up between Latter-day Saint settlers and 70 Native Americans led by Big Elk. After many of the Native American warriors were wounded or killed, the remaining fled, some escaping to Rock Canyon. There, at the mouth of the canyon, Big Elk died from his wounds (Andy Weeks, Haunted Utah). When Big Elk’s wife saw the militiamen approaching the canyon, she allegedly tried to climb a cliff to escape but fell to her death.

Many rock climbers have similarly perished in Rock Canyon, falling to their deaths. “Evidence of satanic rituals and the bodies of murder victims also have allegedly been found here,” writes Andy Weeks in his book Haunted Utah. But aside from tragic deaths, strange noises, and unnerving feelings, are there any ghosts that haunt Rock Canyon’s cliffs?

According to multiple sources, a ghost has been spotted in Rock Canyon on several occasions—a man dressed in 1970’s clothing. Hikers have reported seeing a man standing atop the rocky precipices staring at people as they pass. Then, without warning, the man plunges down the cliff, running or gliding down the canyon wall at an impossible angle. But just before he hits the ground, he vanishes. Whether or not the terrible tales are true, be sure to take care the next time you are in Rock Canyon.