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 plans for the Provo Utah Temple, which is set to undergo a substantial transformation. The existing temple will close on February 24, 2024, following the dedication of the new Orem Utah Temple, marking the conclusion of its ordinance work. This decision facilitates the building of a new state-of-the-art facility aimed at enhancing the worship experience for its patrons.
The new structure, officially named the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple, will be located at the mouth of the picturesque Rock Canyon on Provo’s east bench. Nestled against a backdrop of mountains, the temple will not only provide spiritual services but also contribute to the aesthetic and community value of the area. The expansive grounds will feature a cascading water feature and beautifully landscaped gardens filled with native flowers, shrubs, and trees, celebrating the region’s natural beauty. The proximity of the Provo Missionary Training Center (MTC) adds an atmosphere of dedication, as it trains thousands of missionaries preparing for international service.
The new temple will span approximately 163,000 square feet and sit on a generous 17-acre site. Inside, it will include six instruction rooms, ten sealing rooms, and two baptistries, all designed to accommodate the needs of temple patrons. The temple’s renaming on February 20, 2024, emphasizes its geographical significance as the community anticipates the final closure of the original structure.
Reconstruction is projected to be completed by late 2027. The architectural design aims to blend traditional and contemporary elements, featuring long arched windows and a prominent multi-level tower capped with a golden spire, symbolizing a modern approach to spiritual architecture.
Safety is a key priority in the construction of the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple. The building will adhere to contemporary seismic codes to ensure its resilience against natural disasters. Additionally, it will incorporate energy-efficient systems for electrical, heating, and plumbing, highlighting a commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management.
One of the temple’s notable design features includes three grand white arches at the entrance, intended to evoke a sense of warmth and welcome. The exterior materials will comply with modern construction standards, with waterproof sheathing boards currently being implemented as part of the building process. Different from its predecessor, the new temple will not include the iconic Angel Moroni statue atop its spire, a design choice that marks a distinct departure in style.
The temple grounds will integrate practical hardscaping elements like concrete walkways alongside environmentally friendly landscaping. This thoughtful approach seeks to enhance the beauty and functionality of the temple complex. The landscaping will focus on native, drought-tolerant plant varieties, ensuring sustainability while providing year-round visual interest. This dedication to environmental stewardship is part of a broader initiative to create a pleasant setting for visitors.
In addition to gardens filled with a diverse array of plants, the temple’s landscaping is expected to include serene water features, contributing to a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and worship. The grounds will feature manicured terraces and symmetric walkways to create a balanced and harmonious experience for all who visit.
As the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple develops, it promises to become a vital spiritual resource for the community. Its commitment to modern design, sustainability, and spiritual significance will not only meet the needs of current members but also serve as a landmark of inspiration and peace for generations to come.