Mudslide impacts traffic on Diamond Fork Canyon, sheriff's office says

SPANISH FORK, Utah County — A mudslide is affecting traffic on Diamond Fork Road, making it difficult for travelers to exit the canyon Friday afternoon.

Sgt. Spencer Cannon of the Utah County Sheriff's Office told KSL the slide blocked access to Highway 6, preventing drivers from leaving the canyon through the main exit.

Jake Miller told KSL TV he went up Diamond Fork Canyon to check out Fifth Water Hot Springs before the mudslide.

“It was raining when I was in spring. It was pretty cool,” he said. “(But) on the way back, the trail was completely washed out. The road was in terrible shape.”

Miller said there was about two feet of rock on Diamond Fork Road, making it virtually impassable.

“Here are some big rocks. I helped a deputy pull one off the road,” Miller said.

The Utah County Sheriff's Office posted on X that crews were working to clear the road, but it could be several hours before it is reopened.

Diamond Fork Road before and after the Fifth Water Hot Springs trailhead is blocked by mudslides covering the road. Avoid this area. Utah County Public Works is on its way to clear the road, but the road is expected to be closed for several hours. pic.twitter.com/ZMHZ94b10x

– Utah County Sheriff (@UCSO) June 21, 2024

“(I) spent an hour digging,” Miller said. “And I finally finished with my car.”

He said it might have been better to wait until the road was clear because it was surprisingly rocky.

“So I definitely didn’t expect it. I didn’t come prepared,” Miller said.

Cannon said drivers could take Diamond Fork Road, pass through Ray's Valley, and exit via Sheep Creek to reach Highway 6. However, Cannon is unsure if this alternate route is available for all vehicle types.