So beautiful and easy for everyone to enjoy. Walking paths. Areas to explore and nature beginning to show her colors!
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BYU Duck Pond

4.7
·557 reviews·Provo, United States

A serene campus oasis with ducks, turtles, and blossoming trees, perfect for peaceful walks and nature observation.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blossoms and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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So beautiful and easy for everyone to enjoy. Walking paths. Areas to explore and nature beginning to show her colors!

BYU Duck Pond

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blossoms and fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene campus oasis with ducks, turtles, and blossoming trees, perfect for peaceful walks and nature observation.

4.7
(557 reviews)

"A great little treasure at the south end of campus! You would never guess you were on campus."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚫 No Bread for Ducks!

Feed ducks peas, corn, or duck feed. Bread is harmful! :duck:

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the trails comfortably. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Blossoming Trees

Blossoming Trees

Surrounding the pond

Vibrant trees burst into bloom, creating a picturesque backdrop for a peaceful stroll or quiet contemplation.

Duck & Turtle Encounters

Duck & Turtle Encounters

The pond itself

Observe a variety of ducks and, if you're lucky, spot turtles basking in the sun. A delightful spot for nature lovers.

Tranquil Walking Trails

Tranquil Walking Trails

Around the pond and stream

Meander along brick paths beside a gentle stream, offering a serene escape from campus bustle.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

Beat the student rush! Early mornings or late afternoons offer the most peaceful experience at the BYU Duck Pond. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, allowing for a more serene escape amidst nature.

Respecting the Residents

While feeding the ducks is tempting, avoid bread! Opt for peas, corn, or specialized duck feed. This ensures the health of the waterfowl and preserves the pond's ecosystem. Be mindful of duck poop on pathways.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Calm atmosphere for study breaks
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Fall evenings
Why
Golden hour light, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

BYU duck pond in Provo has the prettiestttt blossoming trees right now!!
photosbybrinnab
230 likes • 7K views

🚫 No Bread for Ducks!

Feed ducks peas, corn, or duck feed. Bread is harmful! :duck: Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the trails comfortably. :athletic_shoe: Instagram

Let's explore! The BYU duck pond park is an extensive and lush space with walkways, picnic tables, bike racks and more. The weather is perfect and the plants are greener than ever, so we invite you to go take a look if you've never been, or revisit if you have!
byusustainability
86 likes • 3.1K views
Fun afternoon at the BYU duck pond!
tarahollan
11 likes • 370 views

📸 Capture the Scenery

Perfect spot for nature photography, especially during spring blooms. :camerawithflash: Instagram

🧺 Picnic Spots Available

Enjoy a meal outdoors with benches and tables. :picnic_table: Instagram

Estaba manejando, a mi derecha vi este pequeño parque urbano y decidí detenerme. ¡Mira lo que encontré! 🦆🏞️🌱🌻❤️ #byuduckpond #Utah #Ducks #nature #Provo #utahvalley
h.a.gubelin
20 likes • 273 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚫 No Bread for Ducks!

Feed ducks peas, corn, or duck feed. Bread is harmful! :duck: Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the trails comfortably. :athletic_shoe: Instagram

📸 Capture the Scenery

Perfect spot for nature photography, especially during spring blooms. :camerawithflash: Instagram

🧺 Picnic Spots Available

Enjoy a meal outdoors with benches and tables. :picnic_table: Instagram

💩 Watch Your Step

Be aware of duck droppings on paths. :warning:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(557 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the BYU Duck Pond as a beautiful and calming spot, perfect for a peaceful walk or a study break. The scenic beauty, especially during spring with blooming trees, is a major draw. However, some find the pond smaller than expected, and caution is advised regarding duck droppings.

"Apparently the ducks here are so inbred they’ve become a completely new species😭 this place is great, calming if you need a break from studies. Watch out for duck poop."

Elizabeth Johnson

"What a beautiful place. Great to take a walk or just sit and relax. Enjoy the sound of the water falls, birds, or ducks in the pond."

Daniel

"This is a great little treasure at the south end of campus! The pond is small but it's full of ducks and turtles (if you feed them please do some research first and don't feed them bread! It's really bad for them). Its a great place to enjoy an afternoon outside. I love the trails around pond as well! They have a brick trail that runs alongside a stream. You would never guess you were on campus. There are several benches and picnic tables along the trail. If you're looking for a place to relax, be alone, or connect with nature on campus the duck pond and these trails are great!"

Jake Dodge

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Calming atmosphere
Great for walks

What People Dislike

Smaller than expected
Duck poop

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The BYU Duck Pond is located on the south end of the Brigham Young University campus in Provo, Utah. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. For those on campus, it's a pleasant walk or bike ride. Instagram

While there isn't direct public transport to the pond itself, UTA bus routes serve the BYU campus. You can check the UTA schedule for routes that stop near the south end of campus, followed by a short walk. Instagram

Yes, biking is a great option! The area has bike racks, making it convenient to cycle to the pond and enjoy the surrounding campus. Instagram

It's generally easy to find, situated on the south side of campus. Look for signs or ask for directions to the 'duck pond' or 'botany pond' area. Instagram

Parking is available in designated lots around the south end of campus. Check BYU's parking regulations for visitor parking availability and any associated fees. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the BYU Duck Pond is a public park and does not require an entrance fee or ticket. It's free to visit and enjoy the natural surroundings. Instagram

The duck pond is an outdoor public space and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official closing times, but it's best to visit when it's safe and well-lit. Instagram

There is no admission fee to enter the BYU Duck Pond area. It's a free community amenity for students and the public to enjoy. Instagram

Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There's no reservation system for them. Instagram

The main restriction is regarding feeding the ducks; avoid feeding them bread. Also, be mindful of campus rules and regulations. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a peaceful walk, observe ducks and turtles, have a picnic, take photos of the scenery, and relax by the water. It's a great spot for a study break. InstagramReddit

The park offers walkways, picnic tables, and bike racks. Restrooms might be available in nearby campus buildings, but are not directly at the pond. Instagram

Absolutely! The blossoming trees in spring and the serene water create beautiful photo opportunities. It's a popular spot for nature and landscape photography. Instagram+1

Dogs are generally allowed in outdoor campus areas, but must be kept on a leash. Be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your pet. Reddit

You'll primarily see various species of ducks. Turtles are also present, and you might spot other small birds. Reddit

🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining

Being on campus, there are several dining options within Brigham Young University's student union and nearby buildings. You can also find restaurants a short drive away in Provo. Instagram

Yes, the duck pond area has picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for an outdoor meal. Remember to bring your own food and dispose of trash properly. Instagram

It's best to feed the ducks peas, corn, or specialized duck feed. Avoid feeding them bread, as it's unhealthy for them and can cause digestive issues. Reddit

No, there are no food vendors or concessions directly at the duck pond. You'll need to bring your own food or purchase it from nearby campus dining facilities. Instagram

Sandwiches, salads, fruits, and snacks are great picnic options. Don't forget drinks and any necessary utensils. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft lighting. Springtime with blooming trees is particularly photogenic. Instagram

A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing ducks up close. Even a smartphone can capture lovely shots. Instagram+1

The areas with the blossoming trees, the stream banks, and the pond itself with ducks are prime spots. Look for reflections in the water. Instagram

Maintain a respectful distance. While ducks are accustomed to people, getting too close can disturb them. Use a zoom lens to capture details. Reddit

Capturing the vibrant colors of the spring blossoms, the serene water reflections, and the wildlife (ducks and turtles) are the main draws for photographers. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The BYU Duck Pond is a delightful spot for families. The fenced pond keeps little ones safe while they observe the ducks and turtles. The walking trails are easy to navigate, perfect for strollers or for kids to burn off some energy. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the available tables, making it a fun and affordable outing. Remember to bring bird-safe snacks like peas or corn for the ducks! InstagramReddit

It's a great place to teach children about nature and wildlife in a calm, accessible environment. The relatively small size of the pond makes it manageable for a short visit, ensuring kids stay engaged without getting overwhelmed. The surrounding greenery also provides a pleasant space for a family stroll. Instagram

📚 Students Seeking a Study Break

For BYU students, the Duck Pond is an ideal oasis for a quick escape from academic pressures. It's conveniently located on campus, making it easy to pop over for a refreshing break. The tranquil atmosphere, the gentle sounds of nature, and the presence of wildlife offer a perfect way to de-stress and clear your mind. InstagramReddit

Bring a book and find a quiet bench, enjoy a peaceful walk along the stream, or simply sit and observe the ducks. It’s a fantastic spot to recharge before diving back into your studies. The accessibility and serene environment make it a go-to location for students looking for a moment of calm amidst a busy university schedule. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ecosystem of the BYU Duck Pond

The BYU Duck Pond, also known as the Botany Pond, is more than just a picturesque spot; it's a small but vital urban ecosystem on campus. It provides a habitat for various waterfowl, including a resident population of ducks, and is also home to turtles. The surrounding greenery and the gentle stream contribute to its natural charm, offering a peaceful retreat for students and visitors alike. InstagramReddit

Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the pond's inhabitants. While feeding the ducks is a common activity, it's crucial to do so responsibly. Avoid feeding them bread, as it can lead to serious health issues and malnourishment. Instead, opt for healthier alternatives like peas, corn, or specialized duck feed. This simple act helps maintain the health of the duck population and the overall pond environment. Reddit

The pond's trails offer a chance to connect with nature, with brick paths winding alongside a stream. This creates a serene atmosphere, making it easy to forget you're on a bustling university campus. It's a testament to how green spaces can be integrated into urban and academic settings, providing a much-needed sanctuary for both wildlife and people. Instagram

A Photographer's Paradise

The BYU Duck Pond is a hidden gem for photographers, especially during the spring months. The blossoming trees surrounding the pond erupt in vibrant colors, creating a stunning natural backdrop that's perfect for capturing breathtaking shots. The interplay of light on the water, the lush greenery, and the wildlife offers endless photographic possibilities. Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons, known as the 'golden hours,' provide the most flattering light for photography. The soft, warm glow enhances the natural beauty of the scene and minimizes harsh shadows. Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, the pond offers ample opportunities to capture memorable images. Consider bringing a telephoto lens if you want to get close-up shots of the ducks without disturbing them. Instagram

Beyond the seasonal blooms, the pond itself, with its ducks and occasional turtles, provides dynamic subjects. The reflections on the water's surface can add an artistic element to your photos. It’s a place where you can practice landscape, wildlife, and even portrait photography with a beautiful natural setting. Instagram

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