Rock Canyon is one of the most visited canyons along the Wasatch front mainly due to its close proximity to Provo and BYU. It is a climbing mecca for many and a great recreational area. Few know of the beautiful caves that are found there (two of them gated) or of the rich history within its walls. In 1850 a group of Utes, under the direction of Big Elk, fled to Rock Canyon following a battle with the Mormon Militia. Squaw Peak is named after Big Elk’s squaw who died in the canyon following the battle.
I have heard rumors of a panel of Indian writings not far off the trail in rock canyon. It is supposed to be low down and covered with very faded drawings. I have only found one panel in the canyon so far. It is easy to find if you keep an eye out for it.
As the settlers explored the canyon they discovered a wealth of minerals and have left behind a number of shafts and tunnels to be explored.
The largest mining venture in the canyon was Buckley’s Mine. It is located high in the cliffs on the north side of the canyon and is a fairly difficult climb to the entry. How these old-timers managed to work this mine where it is located is pretty amazing. The image below shows the upper and lower entry from a zoomed-in photo taken from the other side of the canyon.
The canyon has many more mines to be explored, but most only extend 50′ or less. Unfortunately, I do not know of any mines being found in the canyon that were there prior to the pioneers. With how much mineral that has been found in the canyon, this is surprising to me. But, with how rugged the canyon is, many holes may still remain undiscovered.
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