Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple taken on November 3, 2025. In a significant announcement during the Sunday Afternoon Session of the October 2021 General Conference, the late Prophet Russell M. Nelson revealed major plans for the Provo Utah Temple. This announcement includes a comprehensive demolition and reconstruction project, with the existing temple set to close on February 24, 2024. This closure will mark the end of its ordinance work, allowing for the construction of a new, state-of-the-art facility designed to better serve the community.
The future Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple is strategically located at the mouth of Rock Canyon on Provo’s east bench, surrounded by the majestic mountains of the region. This picturesque setting not only enhances the spiritual ambiance but also provides a unique backdrop for the sacred work that will take place there. The temple grounds will incorporate a beautiful cascading water feature, along with extensive landscaping that includes a variety of native flowers, shrubs, and trees, celebrating the area’s natural beauty. Additionally, the Provo Missionary Training Center (MTC) nearby adds to the community’s vibrancy, as it trains thousands of missionaries preparing for service.
Covering approximately 163,000 square feet and situated on a generous 17-acre site, the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple will include numerous facilities vital for temple patrons. The thoughtful design consists of six instruction rooms, ten sealing rooms, and two baptistries, all tailored to provide an inviting environment for worship and sacred ordinances.
The renaming of the temple on February 20, 2024, emphasizes its geographical significance, coinciding with the closure of the original structure. Reconstruction efforts are already underway, with the anticipated completion date set for late 2027. This new temple will blend traditional and contemporary architectural elements, featuring long, elegant arched windows and a striking multi-level tower topped with a gleaming golden spire. This design choice reflects a shift from the original mid-century modern style to a more timeless and elegant aesthetic.
Safety is a key consideration in the construction of the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple, which will be built to adhere to current seismic codes, ensuring resilience in the face of potential earthquakes. Furthermore, the new temple will include energy-efficient electrical, heating, and plumbing systems, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and modern building standards.
At the main entrance, guests will be welcomed by three grand white arches, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The exterior materials will follow modern construction standards, with waterproof sheathing boards being installed as part of the building process. Notably, unlike its predecessor, the new temple will not feature the iconic Angel Moroni statue atop its spire, reflecting a significant design change.
The extensive 17-acre grounds will combine hardscaping elements, such as concrete pathways, with beautifully designed landscaping, ensuring that the surroundings are both practical and visually appealing. The landscaping will focus on native, drought-tolerant plant species that thrive in the local climate, supporting sustainability initiatives and environmental stewardship.
In addition to the diverse plantings, the temple’s design includes serene water features, which will enhance the tranquil ambiance of the grounds. These features are intended to provide peaceful areas for visitors to reflect and meditate, creating a harmonious spiritual environment. The gardens will also feature manicured terraces and neatly arranged walkways, balancing structured pathways with organic landscaping to enhance the overall visitor experience.
As the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple takes form, it is set to become a prominent spiritual sanctuary, reflecting the beauty of its surroundings and the values of the community it serves. Its dedication to modern design, safety, and sustainability will not only make it a cherished landmark but also a significant center for worship and community gathering for many years to come.