The Utah Hike That Leads To The Most Unforgettable Destination
By Catherine Armstrong|Published June 23, 2019
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
Utah’s hiking trails are all great ways to bask in the beauty of nature, but there’s one in particular that takes you to an unforgettable destination. It’s a strenuous climb, but well worth your effort for the payoff at the top!
Welcome to Timpanogos National Monument! You'll find this gem in American Fork Canyon. To reach it, take the Alpine-Highland exit on I-15, then drive east for 10 miles.
Address: 2038 Alpine Loop Road, American Fork, UT, 84003
The 1.5-mile trail takes you up numerous switchbacks right up the side of the mountain to Timpanogos Cave. On a hot, summer day, the cave is a cool respite, and a fascinating place to tour.
If you want to tour the cave at the top, you'll start at the Visitor Center, which is brand new for the 2019 season. It's open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cave tours often sell out in advance, so purchase yours up to 30 days before your visit.
Check in at the Visitor Center when you arrive. The time that you select for your reservation is the time that you pick up your tickets at the Visitor Center. You'll meet your tour guide 1.5 hours later, at the cave entrance. Tours cost $12 for guests ages 12 and older, $7 for children ages 2-11, $2, for babies newborn to age 2. Seniors receive 50% off. The cave is only accessible with a ranger-led tour.
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Before you set out on the trail, make sure you're prepared for the challenge. The trail is paved, but it's very steep, with a 1,065-foot elevation gain. Because it's so steep, no strollers, wagons, or wheelchairs are allowed.
Slather on some sunscreen and wear a hat; the trail is almost completely sun-exposed. You'll also want to pack at least 32 ounces of water per person. You can choose to hike the trail without a cave tour at the end. There's no charge to access the trail, which is open daily from 6 a.m. to 6:15 p.m.
The trail is a workout, but there are benches at many of the switchbacks, allowing you to rest along the way. While some people race up the trail like mountain goats in just a half hour, others take 1.5 hours to reach the top.
Take your mind off the fact that your calves are burning by enjoying the stunning views of American Fork Canyon. You'll definitely want to bring your camera along on this hike.
You'll notice some fairly new safety fences in some areas of the trail. The switchbacks are plenty wide, but they are cut right into the side of the mountain, and it's a long way down. Keep a close eye on kids, and stay on the trail.
The entrance to Timpanogos Cave is at the top of the trail. Bring a sweater or jacket with you - even though it might be hot and sunny on the trail, the cave maintains a cool 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
During your tour, you'll see all kinds of interesting cave formations, including the Great Heart of Timpanogos - the largest and most famous formation. You'll also get a look at helictites, cave bacon, stalactites, stalagmites, and cave popcorn.
Your total Timpanogos Cave experience will last 3-4 hours, including the hike up the mountain, cave tour, and hike back down.
Reserve your cave tour now! Tours sell out, and if you just show up, you’re likely to be disappointed. Call (877) 444-6777 or purchase tickets online here.
When is the last time you hiked to Timpanogos Cave? Tell us about your experience in the comments! Learn more about Timpanogos Cave National Monument on the National Park Service’s website, and follow the monument’s Facebook page to see the latest events.
