Paul Ream Wilderness Park

Natural Oasis

With the Provo River flowing right through it, Paul Ream Wilderness Park offers a glimpse of nature that's surprisingly tranquil. We love watching kids (and let's be honest, adults too) tossing rocks into the current or pointing excitedly at fish darting beneath the surface. There's something about moving water that just soothes the soul, isn't there?

A charming bridge spans the river, connecting different areas of the park and providing an ideal spot to lean against the railing and watch for wildlife. The park is generously dotted with trees that create amazing shade during those scorching Utah summer afternoons. It's kind of magical how you can step into what feels like a genuine wilderness experience while still being within city limits.

Duck Haven

The duck pond is definitely a centerpiece attraction here. A small trail circles the water, although heads up - parts can be a bit uneven. At practically any time, you'll come across hundreds of ducks paddling around, many so comfortable with humans they'll eat right from your hand.

If you're planning to feed the ducks, skip the bread (not great for their digestion) and bring healthier options like cut-up grapes, oats, bird seed, chopped lettuce, or rice. If you're into birding, keep your eyes peeled for occasional special visitors like the hooded merganser mixing in with the regular duck crowd.

Wildlife Encounters

Beyond the ducks, the park offers some wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities. You'll likely spot rabbits doing their thing around the grounds, and a variety of birds have made this place home. It's what makes Paul Ream special - an authentic nature connection rather than just another playground with fancy equipment.

Just a practical note: the water features do attract mosquitoes during certain seasons, so you might want to tuck some bug spray in your bag.

Gathering Spaces

Sprawling grassy areas provide plenty of room for picnics, games, or just lounging on a blanket. The park offers several pavilions with picnic tables - one large and three smaller ones - that you can reserve through Provo City or use first-come, first-served if no one's booked them.

Tucked behind the playground, you'll discover a more secluded picnic section with tables and BBQ grills set on cement pads, surrounded by trees. The tree coverage around the park has also made this a favorite spot for hammock enthusiasts to string up and relax.

Kid Zone

For the younger crowd, there's a standard but solid playground featuring multiple slides, swings, monkey bars, and teeter-totters. While the play area doesn't offer much shade, it keeps kids entertained while you can watch from nearby seating. The equipment works for various ages, and if you're feeling creative, you could turn it into a DIY obstacle course or time challenge.

Pathways and Waterways

Behind the picnic tables, trails wind alongside a small stream, with cute little bridges crossing the water at intervals. It makes for a pleasant nature walk under the tree canopy, and the wooded area becomes a natural playground for games like hide-and-seek.

The park connects to the Provo River Trail, which is great news if you're on a bike or looking to extend your walk or run beyond the park itself. Between the pond, streams, and river, you've got water features in every direction you look.

Practical Stuff

You'll come across clean restrooms with flush toilets and running water, although they typically close during winter. Drinking fountains operate during warmer months, and there's plenty of easy parking available.

With numerous shaded picnic tables, pavilions with power hookups, and barbecue grills, this park is great for family reunions and gatherings of all sizes.

Setting

Paul Ream Wilderness Park sits near the Provo River, creating this unique blend of natural wilderness with city conveniences. What makes it special is how it offers a peaceful retreat just blocks from the I-15 freeway - a serene pocket of nature where you might not expect to find one.