Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple picture taken on November 3, 2025. In an exciting announcement during the Sunday Afternoon Session of the October 2021 General Conference, the late Prophet Russell M. Nelson revealed plans for a transformative project that would redefine the Provo Utah Temple. This significant undertaking involves the demolition and reconstruction of the existing temple, with operations scheduled to commence after the dedication of the Orem Utah Temple. Officially set to close on February 24, 2024, this marks a pivotal moment as the temple prepares to transition into a new era, with the community encouraged to continue participating in sacred ordinances at nearby temples during this period.
The upcoming Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple will be located in a stunning area on Provo’s east bench, nestled at the gateway of Rock Canyon. This picturesque setting, surrounded by breathtaking mountains, will provide a spiritually uplifting backdrop, enhancing the temple’s role as a sacred space. The expansive grounds will feature a beautifully designed cascading water feature, surrounded by a vibrant assortment of native flowers, shrubs, and trees that celebrate the region’s natural beauty.
Adjacent to the temple site, the bustling Provo Missionary Training Center (MTC) serves as a hive of activity where young missionaries prepare for their global service, further enriching the atmosphere of dedication surrounding the temple.
Spanning an impressive 163,000 square feet on a generous 17-acre site, the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple will house several unique facilities. The thoughtful architectural design includes six instruction rooms, ten sealing rooms, and two baptistries, all crafted to create an inviting environment for temple patrons.
On February 20, 2024, the temple will officially be renamed to the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple. As the original structure closes its doors on February 24, 2024, it will be demolished to make way for a modern facility that elegantly embraces both traditional and contemporary architectural elements. With an elegant multi-level tower and long arched windows culminating in a gleaming golden spire, the new temple will reflect a timeless aesthetic while stepping away from the original mid-century modern design.
Safety and sustainability are of utmost importance in its construction, with meticulous adherence to current seismic codes and the integration of energy-efficient systems for electrical, heating, and plumbing needs.
The grand entrance of the new temple will feature three striking white arches, offering a warm welcome to all who enter. As construction progresses, modern materials, such as waterproofed sheathing boards, are being used extensively. Interestingly, unlike its predecessor, the new temple will not feature the iconic Angel Moroni statue atop its spire, shifting towards a more contemporary design.
The 17-acre grounds will showcase a harmonious blend of hardscaping with well-placed concrete curbing and sidewalks, designed not just for functionality but to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the complex. Expect picturesque oval-shaped features at critical intersection points, adding to the beauty and flow of the space.
In line with modern sustainability efforts, the landscaping plan will prioritize native, drought-tolerant plant varieties that thrive in the local climate, creating an inviting atmosphere while demonstrating environmental stewardship. The gardens will feature a diverse selection of trees, shrubs, and seasonal flowers, ensuring year-round visual interest, all while harmonizing with the refined architectural style of the temple.
Adding to the tranquil ambiance will be carefully designed water features, likely adorned with plants that flourish in a moist environment, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. Like many other temples, the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple will present manicured gardens and symmetrical walkways, balancing structured elegance with organic beauty, enhancing the spiritual experience of all who enter.
As the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple takes shape, it promises not only to be a house of worship but also a welcoming sanctuary that reflects the stunning beauty of its surroundings and the shared values of its visitors. Its dedication to modern design, sustainability, and spiritual significance will position it as a cherished landmark and a beacon of peace for many in the community and beyond.