Picture of the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple was 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 shared transformative news for the beloved Provo Utah Temple. Set to close its doors on February 24, 2024, following the dedication of the Orem Utah Temple, the Provo Utah Temple will undergo a significant metamorphosis through demolition and reconstruction. This evolution paves the way for a state-of-the-art facility designed to elevate the spiritual experiences of temple visitors. While the existing temple prepares for its closure, members in the surrounding area are encouraged to visit nearby temples, ensuring that sacred ordinances continue to be accessible.
The newly envisioned Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple will be a stunning architectural marvel, nestled at the mouth of Rock Canyon on Provo’s east bench. With its awe-inspiring backdrop of majestic mountains, the temple grounds will delight visitors with a beautifully designed cascading water feature surrounded by an array of native flowers, shrubs, and trees, celebrating the natural splendor of the region. Just across the street lies the Provo Missionary Training Center (MTC), where countless missionaries prepare for global service, infusing the area with a spirit of dedication and purpose.
Spanning approximately 163,000 square feet on a spacious 17-acre site, the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple will offer a wealth of facilities, including six instruction rooms, ten sealing rooms, and two baptistries. Its thoughtful design is intended to foster an inviting and uplifting atmosphere for all who enter.
On February 20, 2024, the temple will embrace its new name, the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple, symbolizing its geographical significance. Celebrations will mark the closure and subsequent demolition of the original structure on February 24, 2024, with construction for the new temple already underway and slated for completion by late 2027. The design will blend timeless elegance with contemporary flair, featuring long, graceful arched windows and a striking multi-level tower topped by a gleaming golden spire, moving away from the mid-century modern aesthetic of its predecessor.
Prioritizing safety and sustainability, the new temple will meet the latest seismic codes and will be built with energy-efficient electrical, heating, and plumbing systems. A commitment to environmental stewardship is reflected in the thoughtful landscape design, which will focus on drought-tolerant native plant species that thrive in the local climate.
One of the temple’s standout features will be its grand entrance, defined by three magnificent white arches that radiate warmth and hospitality. The ongoing construction includes modern building materials, with waterproof sheathing boards currently being installed. Unlike its predecessor, the new design will forgo the iconic Angel Moroni statue atop the spire, showcasing a fresh direction in temple architecture.
The expansive grounds will harmoniously blend hardscape elements like concrete curbing and elegant walkways, enhancing both the flow and aesthetic appeal of the temple complex while integrating seamlessly with the breathtaking backdrop of Rock Canyon. The landscaping will include a diverse selection of trees, shrubs, and seasonal flowers curated to ensure year-round visual interest, inviting visitors to engage with the natural beauty surrounding the temple.
The design also anticipates picturesque water features that will complement the tranquil environment, creating serene retreats for contemplation and reflection. Manicured garden terraces and symmetrical pathways will showcase a balance of structured and organic styles, further enriching the spiritual journey of those who visit.
As the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple takes shape, it promises to become a cherished sanctuary—a harmonious blend of modern design, sustainability, and spiritual significance. This temple is set to become not only a house of worship but also a beacon of peace and inspiration, reflecting the beauty of its surroundings and the values held dear by the community.