UserFee

Wherever you see these symbols, 

you’ll know your recreation fees 

are hard at work helping to fund 

those projects. Thank you for helping to make a difference in your 

parks and forests.

The creation of the Forest Service initiated a century of 

change in managing public forests and grasslands, with 

introduction of a new conservation ethic and professional 

workforce to carry it forth. The Forest Service has now upheld this noble charge for 100 years, and America’s forests 

and grasslands remain vibrant because of the hard work 

and dedication of Forest Service employees. 

 Beyond serving as places for recreation, our forests are 

also sources for wood products, livestock forage, minerals, 

and many other resources that drive our economy. Over 

the last century, the Forest Service has combined this ethic 

of good stewardship with 

sound science 

and a spirit of 

innovation to 

cultivate and 

sustain our forests and grasslands in ways 

that benefi t our 

entire society.

 Today, 

Americans 

continue to be responsible stewards of national forests 

and grasslands. The Forest Service is working with State 

and local governments, tribes, and other Federal agencies 

to help prevent destructive wildfi res, return forests to a 

healthier, natural condition, and maintain a full range of 

forest types. The Forest Service is also providing important work, education, and job training to citizens in need. 

This commitment to “Caring for the Land and Serving 

People” contributes to our country’s success in conserving 

our environment and ensuring that our natural resources 

remain sources of pride for our citizens, our communities, 

and our Nation. We ask that you join us in refl ecting on the 

organization’s proud history and traditions and explore 

ways to move into a new century of “caring for the land 

and serving people.” 

Then and Now – Forest Service accomplishments over the past 100 years 

From Giff ord Pinchot’s fi rst concept of forest preservation, the National Forest Service idea has evolved into 155 

National Forests, 20 National Grasslands, 20 National 

Recreation Areas, and 6 National Monuments. After nearly 

a century, what do we have to show for our conservation 

principles? 

Clean water: A century ago, most watersheds were unprotected. Today, the most and the cleanest water in the 

country comes from our forests. More than 60 million 

Americans get their drinking water from watersheds that 

originate on our national forests and grasslands.

Wildlife and fi sh habitat: A century ago, many species 

were severely depleted or on the brink of extinction. Today, many have made remarkable comebacks after fi nding 

refuge on our national forests and grasslands. For example, 

our national forests provide 80 percent of the habitat in the 

lower 48 States for elk, mountain goat, and bighorn sheep. 

We maintain 28 million acres of wild turkey habitat and 

half of the country’s blue-ribbon trout streams.

Fire protection: Seventy years ago, wildland fi res burned 

tens of millions of acres annually. Today, thanks to the best 

wildland fi refi ghting force in the world, less than 5 million acres burn in most years. We stop 98 percent of our 

fi res during initial attack—what an achievement! Past fi re 

Timpanogos

Reflections

Visitor Guide - Summer 2005 U.S. Department of the Interior

National Park Service

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

INSIDE:

Welcome! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Canyon Passes . . . . . . . . . . 2

Making the Most of Your 

Visit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Planning for the Future . . . 3

Visitor Services . . . . . . . . . . 4

War on Weeds . . . . . . . . . . 4

Visiting Timpanogos Cave . 5

Nature’s Calendar . . . . . . . . 6

Ranger Programs . . . . . . . . 7

Kid’s Korner . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

American Fork Canyon 

Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Emergency: 911

Sheriff: (801) 375-3601

Continued on page 3

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Forest Service

Uinta National Forest

War on Weeds 4

IT’S UP TO YOU

National Parks and Forests have been described as the crown jewels of the United 

States. While enjoying the beauty of 

American Fork Canyon, please remember 

that few other nations have parks and 

forests that can compare to those of the 

United States. They are something to be 

proud of. They are something to preserve.

The protection 

of American 

Fork Canyon is 

ultimately in 

the hands of the 

people who visit 

it. Your cooperation with park 

and forest rules 

is one way to help ensure American Fork 

Canyon’s beauty.

Please treat your canyon with care so 

that we may celebrate another century of 

service.

Things to Do 3 Go Underground 5

Celebrating a Centennial

100 years of dedication to caring for the land and serving people

I

n 2005, the Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service celebrates a century of service to our nation. President Theodore Roosevelt established the Forest Service as 

part of the Department of Agriculture in 1905. The fi rst Chief of the Forest Service, 

Giff ord Pinchot, was tasked with ensuring that “all land is to be devoted to its most 

productive use for the permanent good of the whole people”. 

Thank You!
2 SUMMER 2005

Timpanogos Refl ections

Welcome!

For over a century, our 

National Forests and Parks 

have been places where 

people can take a break from 

the rigors and routine of 

daily life, places to recreate 

and share, and places that 

help us mold and express 

our individuality. Here you can explore miles of mountain trails, 

pass through a living cave system, view wildlife among spectacular 

mountain vistas, and enjoy your favorite recreational pursuits.

There are as many ways to enjoy American Fork Canyon, as there 

are people who visit. The diversity of recreational opportunities 

here off ers something for almost everyone. While many people 

enjoy American Fork Canyon from the comfort of paved scenic 

drives, others prefer the challenge and remoteness of the canyon’s 

many unimproved roads and trails.

While vigorous activities can he fun and stimulating, some of 

the fi nest things American Fork Canyon has to off er can only be 

enjoyed by slowing down. Take some time, walk quietly, look, 

listen, and the landscape will open up to you. The mountains have 

their own mystical voice, the forests and meadows a potpourri of 

fragrance, the air is cool and clear, and the scene is a backdrop for 

lifetime memories. 

We hope that as you walk the trails or drive the mountain 

roads you will refl ect on the importance of these areas and the 

responsibility we all share to care for them. All that is here is yours 

to enjoy. It is also part of a great national legacy to be proudly 

passed to future generations. Take a moment to celebrate this 

magnifi cent canyon, and embrace the beauty and wonder of our 

heritage.

Sincerely,

Pam Gardner Kit T. Mullen

District Ranger, Pleasant Grove Superintendent

Uinta NF Timpanogos Cave NM

America the 

Beautiful Pass 

Coming Soon

Federal lands have provided Americans and visitors from around the world with special places for 

recreation, education and refl ection. Currently, four 

national passes exist. The Act creates an interagency 

national pass called the America the Beautiful Pass, 

which will consolidate the Golden Passport program 

and the National Parks Passport program into an 

interagency pass to decrease visitor confusion. This 

new pass is expected to be available in Spring, 2006.

The Recreational 

Fee Demonstration program, authorized by Congress in 1996, has 

given the Forest 

Service, National 

Park Service, U.S. 

Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Bureau of Land 

Management an opportunity to test a user-generated 

cost recovery program, where fees are collected and 

expended onsite to provide enhanced services and 

facilities. New authority - The Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act - was enacted by Congress 

as part of the 2005 Omnibus Appropriations Bill and 

signed into law by President Bush on December 8, 

2004. The Act provides agencies with recreation fee 

authority for 10 years, which will allow the agencies 

to provide better facilities and services to visitors, 

employ greater use of technology, and enter into fee 

management agreements with counties and other 

entities to provide additional services to visitors. 

Funds from American Fork Canyon have been used 

for: the installation of 10 new restrooms, hiking trail 

improvements, additional cave tours and evening 

programs at Timpanogos Cave National Monument, 

and horse-friendly campsites.

Pam Gardner

WEB SITES

National Park Service

National Park Foundation ................. www.nationalparks.org

National Park Service .......................................www.nps.gov

NPS Campground Reservations .....http://reservations.nps.gov

Timpanogos Cave National Monument ..... www.nps.gov/tica

Western National Parks Association. .............www.wnpa.org

USDA Forest Service

USDA FS Campground Reservation ..... www.reserveusa.com

Uinta National Forest .........................www.fs.fed.us/r4/uinta

USDA Forest Service .......................................www.fs.fed.us

Smokey Bear ..................................... www.smokeybear.com

Other

Public Lands Information ..................... www.publiclands.org

State of Utah ................................................ www.utah.gov

Utah Department of Transportation ....... www.udot.utah.gov

Utah Division of Wildlife Resource ..... www.wildlife.utah.gov

Utah State Parks ............................www.stateparks.utah.gov

FREQUENTLY REQUESTED TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Law Enforcement

EMERGENCY .................................................................... 911

Division of Wildlife Resources .........................(801) 491-5678

Highway Patrol ...............................................(801) 374-7030

Poaching Hotline ..........................................1(800) 662-3337

Utah County Sheriff .......................................(801) 851-4100

Ranger Stations

Timpanogos Cave National Monument ..........(801) 756-5239

Pleasant Grove Ranger District .......................(801) 785-3563

 Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center ....................(801) 756-5238

Nearby National Parks

Arches ...........................................................(435) 719-2299

Bryce Canyon ................................................(435) 834-5322

Capitol Reef ..................................................(435) 425-3791

Glen Canyon .................................................(928) 608-6404

Golden Spike .................................................(435) 471-2209

Grand Canyon ...............................................(928) 638-7888

Grand Teton ..................................................(307) 739-3300

Great Basin ....................................................(775) 234-7331

Yellowstone ...................................................(307) 344-7381

Zion ...............................................................(435) 772-3256

Other

Avalanche Information ..................................(801) 378-4333

National Recreation Reservation Service .........(877) 444-6777

NPS Campground Reservations ....................1(800) 365-2267

Road Conditions ..........................................1(800) 492-2400

Utah County Travel ........................................(801) 370-8390

Utah Travel Council .....................................1(800) 200-1160

Weather ......................................................1(800) 882-1432

Entrance Fee

Allows recreating and use of facilities 

in American Fork Canyon and the 

Alpine Loop.

Three-day Pass $3.00

Fourteen-day Pass $10.00

Annual Pass $25.00

Golden Eagle Passport 

$65.00

Allows entrance to most 

national forest and park areas 

and some other federal fee 

areas for 12 months from date 

of purchase; non-transferable.

National Parks Pass $50.00

Allows entrance to most 

national parks for 12 months 

from date of purchase; nontransferable. 

Golden Eagle Hologram $15.00

Affi x the Golden Eagle Hologram to 

your National Parks Pass to cover entrance fees at national parks, U.S. Fish 

and Wildlife Service, Forest Service, 

and Bureau of Land Management sites. This upgrade 

is valid until expiration of the National Parks Pass to 

which it is affi xed.

Golden Age Passport $10.00 

(one-time fee)

Especially for seniors, the Golden Age Passport allows lifetime 

entrance to most national forest 

and park areas to American citizens 62 years of age and older; 

non-transferable.

Golden Access Passport FREE

The Golden Access Passport allows lifetime entrance to most 

national forest and park system 

areas to American citizens who 

provide proof of permanent disability; non-transferable.

Canyon Passes

Participation in the Recreation Fee Demonstration Program allows 100% of the fees collected at the entrance 

stations to remain in the American fork Canyon to improve visitor services, maintain recreation facilities, enhance wildlife habitat, and protect natural and cultural resources. The Uinta National Forest and Timpanogos 

Cave National Monument appreciate your support of ongoing efforts to improve American Fork Canyon.

The following passes are available at the entrance stations and Visitor Center, cave tour fees are additional:

Kit T. Mullen

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, 

sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs). Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audio tape, etc.) should contact UDSA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To fi le a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Offi ce of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call 

(202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Timpanogos Refl ections is published 

twice yearly by the National Park Service, 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument, and 

the Uinta National Forest Service, to enhance 

visitor experience.

Editor-in-Chief:

 Michael Gosse, Chief Ranger

Editorial Assistants:

 Norman E. Young, NPS Volunteer

 Lee Werst, Chief of Interpretation

 Camille Price, NPS Ranger

 Anita Pulham, NPS Ranger

Layout & Design:

 Brandon K. Kowallis, NPS Ranger

 Norman E. Young, NPS Volunteer

Writers:

 Michael Gosse, NPS Chief Ranger

 Camille Price, NPS Ranger

 Anita Pulham, NPS Ranger

 Debbie Stringham, NPS Ranger

 Norman E. Young, NPS Volunteer

Feature Story:

 Michael Gosse, Chief Ranger

Photographers:

 Jon Jasper, NPS Ranger

 Brandon Kowallis, NPS Ranger

Illustrators:

 Elizabeth Kovacs, NPS Ranger

 Debbie Stringham, NPS Ranger

Cartographer:

 Faye Wheeler, Forest Service

Please address comments to:

Editor, Timpanogos Refl ections

Timpanogos Cave NM

RR 3, Box 200

American Fork, UT 84003-9800

Help preserve natural resources. Please return 

this paper to an entrance station or Visitor 

Center.

For your convenience, buy your National Parks 

Pass online! Gain access to a wealth of information about your National Parks and 

Monuments all from your own PC. 

To learn more, log on to www.

nationalparks.org today!

Canyon Passes
3

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Make the Most of Your Canyon Visit

Centennial (cont.)

seasons have been unusually severe due to fire exclusion practices. We have stopped those practices 

and stepped up fuels treatments by more than 300 

percent, from 385,000 acres in 1994 to 1,320,000 

acres in 1999.

Wilderness and roadless-area protection: Fifty 

years ago, pristine lands were unprotected and open 

for development. Today, we protect some 35 million 

acres of wilderness, about 18 percent of the land 

in our National Forest System. We propose to keep 

another 43 million acres roadless, partly to conserve 

our biological reserves. One hundred eighty-one of 

the 327 watersheds identified by The Nature Conservancy as critical for the conservation of biodiversity in the United States are on our national forests 

and grasslands.

Reforested lands: A century ago, tens of millions 

of acres lay bare, including large parts of the East—

cutover, burned over, and farmed. Today, more than 

46 million acres on our national forests in the East 

have been restored to health. Nationwide, the headwaters of many Americans rivers are now protected 

by our national forests.

Recreational wonderland: Fifty years ago, our 

national forests and grasslands hosted just 18 million 

visitor-days; last year, it was nearly 1 billion—50 

times more! People are coming from all over the 

world. They come to enjoy our 7,700 miles of national scenic byways. They come to fish and canoe 

our 4,348 miles of national wild and scenic rivers. 

They come to hike our 133,087 miles of trails, to use 

our 4,300 campgrounds—the list goes on and on.

A Few Hours

Take in an Evening Program. Join a Ranger at 

the Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center on Friday, 

Saturday, and Monday evenings from 7:30 to 

8:30p.m. for presentations about the park and 

surrounding area. Topics change daily.

Pack a Lunch. Picnic areas with tables, grills, 

water, and restrooms are available at Swinging Bridge Picnic Site inside Timpanogos Cave 

National Monument, and along Highway 92, and 

Route 114 to Tibble Fork Reservoir.

A Half Day

Drive the Loop. The 26-mile Alpine Loop offers terrific views of Mount Timpanogos and 

other glacier carved peaks. The narrow, winding 

route connects American Fork Canyon to Provo 

Canyon. A drive during autumn colors is truly 

breathtaking. Motorhomes and trailers longer 

than 30 feet are not recommended.

Visit Cascade Springs. This beautiful site is located 7.5 miles off the Alpine Loop and consists 

of redwood boardwalks over springs cascading 

down the mountain slope in a series of limestone 

terraces and pools.

Hike to the Cave. Stop at the Timpanogos Cave 

Visitor Center and purchase your tickets to an 

underground wonderland. The Timpanogos 

Cave System is a series of three caves connected 

by two man-made tunnels. Panoramic views of 

the valley dazzle you as you climb the 1,065 feet 

to the cave entrance.

Ride a Bike or a Horse. Enjoy the multiple use 

trails available on the Uinta National Forest and 

enjoy a bike ride or horseback ride where no 

cars can go.

A Whole Day

Sleep Under the Stars. American Fork Canyon 

has four established campgrounds. Each site offers a table, grill, and access to water and restrooms during the summer.

Take a Hike. Over 200 miles of hiking trails in 

the canyon range from level and easy to steep 

and arduous. Stop at the Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center and ask a Ranger for recommended 

hikes and look at maps and guides.

Volunteer. Numerous opportunities are available to volunteer your time for a day to help 

other visitors out, maintain trails and facilities, 

and protect our natural and cultural resources.

Most people seem to enjoy asking the question, 

“What do you want to do?” Well, Timpanogos 

Cave National Monument is planning on asking 

visitors that question and a whole lot more this 

summer. The monument will be participating in 

the National Park Service Visitor Survey Project. 

Our goal is to learn as much as we can about your 

visit to the monument and American Fork Canyon. 

Why did you come up American Fork Canyon? 

What facilities did you use? What did you do in the 

monument? What did you like most about your 

visit? What did you like least?

Teams of independent researchers will be distributing the visitor survey to 300 or more visitors 

during a ten-day period in July. We’ll only collect 

some brief information when we contact you in 

the monument. You’ll be given a copy of a questionnaire that you can fill out at your leisure once 

you get home. We’ll even send you occasional reminders! It should not take more than a half-hour 

of your time, but the information that you provide 

will be extremely valuable to us. Your individual 

response and information will not be shared with 

anyone, and no names will be used in any publications that result from the study. 

Why do we need this information? We do have 

a genuine interest in knowing what our visitors 

think, and your opinion is used in deciding management direction. We also need this information 

to guide us through our next two major planning 

efforts. In the fall of 2005 we hope to complete 

our Comprehensive Interpretive Plan. This is the 

monument’s first long-range interpretive planning 

tool in its 83-year history. This planning document 

provides the interpretation and education vision 

that we will follow for the next 10 years or more.

In addition, the Uinta National Forest and 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument are in the 

initial planning and design stages for a new interagency visitor center and administration office to 

be located just outside American Fork Canyon in 

the city of Highland. We expect development of 

the new center will take 3 to 5 years. We intend the 

new center to benefit the public with easy access 

and available information on the forest and monument. We also intend the center to compliment 

the planning and development of Highland, and 

to provide a sense of arrival and entry to American 

Fork Canyon. There will be public opportunities to 

meet with monument and forest staff and provide 

input. When the process really gets moving, we 

will issue press releases and post information on 

our websites, so anyone interested should watch 

for that information. 

What do you want to do at Timpanogos Cave 

National Monument and in American Fork Canyon? What’s your vision for the monument and 

the forest? We encourage you to participate in the 

visitor survey this summer. Then stay involved 

by attending public meetings and by sending us 

your comments. Together we can plan a promising 

future for Timpanogos Cave National Monument 

and American Fork Canyon. 

Connecting to the past . . . 

 Building for the Future . . . 

Planning for the Future

Centennial Activities

Char Miller Lecture Series

Topics will include Gifford Pinchot and the role of 

the Forest Service in American history.

Fiddling Foresters

The Fiddling Foresters are a musical group who will 

perform throughout the Centennial year.

“The Greatest Good” Centennial Film

Throughout the year this film will be shown across 

the nation.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival

June 23 – July 4, 2005 - The Forest Service will be 

one of 2005’s Smithsonian Folklife Festival’s three 

themes.

Centennial Activities
4 SUMMER 2005

Timpanogos Refl ections

Non-native plants, also called exotic or alien, are 

plant species that have been introduced into an area 

in which they did not originate. Many thrive in disturbed areas, such as along roadsides and trails, and 

usually do not have natural enemies to help control 

their populations. When this type of plant spreads 

quickly, or crowds out native plants, we refer to it as 

an invasive species.

Invasive plants 

can quickly 

take over native 

landscapes, 

robbing wildlife of their 

natural food and 

shelter. Some 

of the most 

troublesome 

weeds found in 

American Fork 

Canyon include 

Dalmation 

Toadfl ax, Spotted Knapweed, 

Leafy Spurge, 

Cheatgrass, and 

Hounds Tongue. The Forest Service and the National Park Service use many tools to limit the spread 

of invasive plants. This includes biological control 

(insects that are specifi c plant’s natural predator), 

manual removal, mulching, and the use of chemical 

herbicides. As exotic plants are removed, natives 

are planted to help restore the natural landscape. 

One good area to see this process fi rst hand is the 

Canyon Nature Trail at Timpanogos Cave National 

Monument. Invasive plants have been removed from 

a meadow along the trail for the past two years, and 

native plants are now being planted in their place.

Examples of native plants found in American Fork 

Canyon can be seen in the planters outside the 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument Visitor Center. These include Colorado Columbine, Firecracker 

Penstemon, and Richardson’s Geranium. Common 

native trees in the area are the Cottonwood, Douglas Fir, White Fir, Utah Juniper, Bigtooth Maple, 

Gambel Oak, Quaking Aspen, and Choke Cherry. 

Beautiful native wildfl owers such as asters, penstemons, buttercups, violets, and lupines can be seen 

in American Fork Canyon in the spring and early 

summer months. 

Wildlife, wind, water, and people spread both native 

and non-native plants when seeds or plant parts 

are moved from one area to another. You can help 

reduce the spread of exotic plants by not taking 

wildfl owers from natural areas, and by checking 

your shoes and tires for attached plant parts to prevent unintentional transport of exotic species. Many 

thistles are infamous for transporting themselves 

by sticking to the bottom of hiker’s boots. In many 

places people have deliberately introduced non-native species.

A big part of the war on weeds is in your own backyard! Consider planting native species rather than 

exotics the next time you landscape your yard or 

update your fl owerbed. Many natives are just as easy 

to grow, require less watering, and can be obtained 

through the local chapter of the Utah Native Plant 

Society. We stand a better chance of winning the war 

on weeds when we work together. 

Visitor Services - Summer 2005

Winning the War on Weeds

Location Season Elevation

CAMPGROUNDS

Altamont Alpine Loop June - September 7,200 ft (2,195 m)

Granite Flat North Fork Road May - September 6,800 ft (2,073 m)

Holman Flat North Fork Road May - September 6,800 ft (2,073 m)

Little Mill Alpine Loop May - October 6,000 ft (1,829 m)

Mount Timpanogos Alpine Loop June - September 6,800 ft (2,073 m)

North Mill Alpine Loop May - September 6,000 ft (1,829 m)

Salamander Flat Alpine Loop June - September 7,400 ft (2,256 m)

Theatre-in-the-Pines Alpine Loop June - September 6,800 ft (2,073 m)

Timpooneke Alpine Loop June - September 7,400 ft (2,256 m)

For campground fees, reservations, or other information please contact Reserve USA at (877) 444-6777.

Disabled Access

Drinking Water

Fee Area

Camp Fires

Interpretive Exhibit

Self Guided Tour

Picnic Area

Trail Head

Equestrian Trail

Group Campsite

Dispersed Camping

Equestrian Facilities

OHV Trail

Restrooms

Hiking Trail

Location Season Elevation

PICNIC AREAS

Echo North Fork Road May - October 6,000 ft (1,829 m)

Grey Cliffs Alpine Loop May - October 6,000 ft (1,829 m)

Martin North Fork Road May - October 6,200 ft (1,890 m)

Mile Rock North Fork Road May - October 6,400 ft (1,951 m)

Road House North Fork Road May - October 6,200 ft (1,890 m)

Swinging Bridge Timpanogos Cave NM May - October 5,600 ft (1,707 m)

The American Fork Canyon recreation fee allows picnicking at the above sites.

Location Season Elevation

VISITOR CENTER

Timpanogos Cave NM Timpanogos Cave NM May - October 5,638 ft (1,951 m)

Fishing

Visitor Information

Telephone

Interpretive Program

Snack Bar

Wanted

Dalmation Toadflax

Grows 2-3 feet tall. Flowers are Snapdragon-shaped and bright yellow with 

orange centers. Leaves are waxy green 

and heart-shaped.

Volunteers Pulling Invasive Weeds
5

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Whether for a cave tour, an evening 

program, a picnic, or just to hike or walk 

around, Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a wonderful place to visit. With 

spectacular canyon vistas, magnificent 

evergreens, a babbling mountain brook, 

and lots of things to see and do, the monument is the perfect place for a memorable 

summertime outing!

Cave Tours

Tours of the 3 adjoining caves are offered 

from early-May through early-October, 

weather permitting. 

Guided by National Park Rangers, these 

1-hour tours are limited to 20 people. Plan 

on spending about 3 hours round-trip to 

hike up, tour the caves, and hike back to 

the Visitor Center. For your safety and the 

safety of others, pets and wheeled vehicles 

(baby strollers, etc.) are NOT allowed on 

the cave trail.

We strongly recommend bringing plenty 

of drinking water, as no water is available 

along the trail or at the caves. Come prepared with hiking shoes and a light jacket 

(cave temperatures average 45o F [7o C]). 

Cameras and flashlights are welcome.

Inside the Caves

The three highly decorated limestone 

caves are known for their abundance of 

helictites—spiral, worm-like formations 

that are rare in most other caves throughout the world. Along the 3/4 mile tour 

deep inside the mountain, you’ll discover 

many other interesting, colorful features. 

Anthodite crystals, stalagmites, stalagtites, 

cave drapery, and flowstone are among 

other formations that adorn the rooms 

and winding passages.

The Cave Trail

To reach the Timpanogos Cave System, 

which is located 6,730 feet above sea level, 

visitors must hike the 1.5 mile (2.4 km) 

hard-surfaced cave trail. The trail, which 

rises 1,065 feet (325 m), is considered a 

strenuous hike. Anyone with heart trouble 

or breathing problems should not attempt 

the hike. Those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Introduction to Caving 

Tour

The Introduction to Caving Tour takes 

visitors back to Hansen Cave Lake. This 

off-trail tour is a strenuous hike that 

requires bending, crawling, and squeezing through tight passages. Group size is 

limited to 5. Participants must be at least 

14 years old.

For more information please call (801) 

756-5238.

Junior Ranger Program 

and Patio Talks

Children who visit the caves can earn a 

Junior Ranger certificate and badge at the 

Visitor Center.

Impromptu patio talks are often given 

on Saturdays and holidays at the Visitor 

Center. These ranger-presented programs 

cover a variety of interesting topics for 

kids of all ages!

Evening Programs

Join a park ranger every Friday, Saturday, 

and Monday night at 7:30 p.m. at the Visitor Center for some very special evening 

programs. These informative programs are 

educational and entertaining. Activities 

range from the study of local wildlife to 

campfire singing. (See Page 7 of this guide 

for details.)

Visitor Center Hours

The Visitor Center is open from 7:00 a.m. 

to 5:30 p.m. daily during the cave tour 

season (May through Labor Day). Hours 

are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. after Labor 

Day until the visitor center closes for the 

winter.

Picnic Area and Nature 

Trail

The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area is 1/4 

mile west of the Visitor Center. A selfguided 1/4 mile Canyon Nature Trail will 

lead you there. Cooking grills, drinking 

water, and fire rings are available at the 

picnic sites. Parking is also available.

A small, shaded, streamside picnic area is 

also located directly across the road from 

the Visitor Center.

Gift Shop and Snack Bar

Food, snacks, beverages, film, clothing, 

and souvenirs, and a shaded eating-area 

and parking are located next to the visitor 

center. For more information call (801) 

756-5702.

Planning a Visit?

For more information on any of the activities offered at Timpanogos Cave National 

Monument, please call the Visitor Center 

at (801) 756-5238 or visit http://www.nps.

gov/tica to learn more.

Tickets are sold at the Visitor Center 

and may be purchased up to 30 days 

in advance with a credit card by calling (801) 756-5238.

Ages 16 & older . . . . . . . . . .$7.00

Ages 6 to 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5.00

Ages 3 to 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$3.00

Ages 2 & under . . . . . . . . . . .FREE

Golden Age/Access Pass . . . .$3.50

Introduction to Caving Tour .$15.00

Over the years, 

mountain lions have 

been called many 

different names. 

There are about 40 

English words for 

mountain lion, and 

roughly 60 more in 

Spanish and Indian languages. In 

Mexico, this large, 

wild cat is called a 

puma or leon. In 

the Eastern United 

States, they are called panthers or catamounts 

(the word “catamount” comes from “cat of 

the mountain”). In the west, they may be 

called cougars. 

Native Americans described these cats well 

when they called them “ghosts of the wilderness” or “ghost walkers.” That’s because 

mountain lions are very secretive and quiet. 

A mountain lion will see and hear you long 

before you ever catch a glimpse of it. This is 

why very few people get to see them.

Mountain lions are carnivores, or meat-eaters. To eat, lions must hunt other animals 

for food. They feed on deer and small mammals. Does this mean that mountain lions are 

dangerous? They can be. Like all forest and 

monument animals, the cats are wild. However, you are not likely to even see one. When 

provided enough space to roam and hunt for 

food, most cougars are happy to keep their 

distance from humans. 

Visiting Timpanogos Cave

National Monument

Anthodite crystals (NPS Photo)

What’s That Cat?

Become a Web Ranger

8 Bring National Park fun to your computer

8 Learn more about your national parks 

even if you can not visit them

8 Learn about parks before your visit

8 Learn how to care for your parks and 

your world

8 Send a WebRangers Postcard to a 

friend

Visit www.nps.gov/webrangers to learn more

Cave Tour Pricing
6 SUMMER 2005

Timpanogos Refl ections

Nature’s Calendar

AMERICAN FORK CANYON HAS BEAUTIFUL FLORA AND FAUNA THAT REFLECT THE SEASONAL CHANGES.

Every month of the year, plants and animals are busy doing something. Unlike people, who are here 

to relax, plants and animals can rarely aff ord leisure time. Look closely, and you will see a world of 

activity taking place inches from where you’re standing.

May Each day the green foliage of the canyon is creeping higher 

and higher up the mountainside, and along side the patches 

of remaining snow the mountain goats are grazing with their 

newborn kids. In the lower canyon look for the snowy blossoms of the chokecherry 

tree and the white blossoms of the western serviceberry tree. Flitting from fi r tree to 

fi r tree the Stellar’s jay is probably heard before it is seen! Its call is loud and raucous. Other birds to watch for include the canyon wren, the western white-throated 

swift, and the cliff swallow.

JuneIt’s often mistaken for Indian paintbrush, but that is actually 

fi recracker penstemon blooming along the gravelly roadside. 

It is also the time to look for blazing star, a spectacular yellow-fl owered plant, western larkspur, tufted evening primrose, and Richardson’s 

geranium. Birds have young in their nest, with most chicks leaving by the end of the 

month. Townsend’s chipmunks are busy and their familiar “chip-chip” sound can be 

heard. It’s also fawning time. Mule deer give birth in May and June, and the spotted 

fawns stay hidden in the tall grass for several weeks before venturing out with their 

mothers. Do not disturb!

July The meadows are covered with blooming purple-blue lupine and 

white Jacob’s ladder. Look for other native plants including the 

sego lily (Utah’s state fl ower), spreading dogbane, and scarlet gilia. 

Many blooming plants are non-native, such as toadfl ax, Queen Anne’s lace, woolly 

mullein, chicory and several varieties of thistle. Watch (and listen) for hummingbird 

activity. The broad-tailed hummer is the most common for this region. Also look for 

the Townsend’s solitaire and the American dipper. Elk and bighorn sheep will be grazing in the high alpine meadows.

August Snakes may be encountered when least expected; 

they are often seen in dry, warm, and sunny spots. 

Gopher snakes are harmless; however, steer clear 

of the Great Basin rattlesnakes! The groves of quaking aspen trees along the Alpine Loop are growing from soil acccumulated by decaying trees from year’s past. 

Birds preferring to live here are the woodpecker and fl ycatcher. Goldenrod, shrubby 

cinquefoil, and asters are blooming, and the blue elderberry, thimbleberry, and black 

twinberry are producing great fruit for the wildlife! Could a bobcat or mountain lion

possibly be watching you from its perch on a cliff ?

September 

Moose may be spotted in their magnifi cence in meadows and streamside areas. Careful not to get too 

close; they are unpredictable! Mule deer are shedding their summer coats. Their winter 

fur is thicker and a dull gray-brown. As leaves begin to color, remember that the red is 

seen primarily in the big-tooth maple and Gambel’s oak leaves, while the bright yellow is 

seen in the aspen, cottonwood, and box-elder maple leaves. Red-tailed hawks and turkey 

vultures may be spotted overhead, taking advantage of air currents. 

October While the deciduous trees shed their leaves, 

the lovely conifers remain evergreen: the 

white fi r, the Douglas-fi r, the limber pine, 

and the blue spruce (Utah’s state tree). It is mating season for deer. Bucks may 

wrestle each other for territory, clashing antlers until one gives up and leaves the 

area. Bucks are very unpredictable at this time, so keep your distance. When food is 

abundant Black bears will eat up to 45 lbs. and put on 5 lbs. per day in preparation 

for winter. By November, many will have curled up in the dens they picked out earlier in the spring. The golden-mantled ground squirrel will also soon be hibernating.
7

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

�������������������������

����

������

��������

����

����

����

���

�����

����

��������

��������

����

�������������������������������������������

 Eye Spy!

��������������������������������������

�����������������������������������

����������

����

��������

����������������������������������������

��������������������������

��������������������

���������������������

�����������������

���������������������������������������

�������������������������������������

����������������������������������������

��������������������������������������

�����������������������������������������

�����������������������������������������

������������������������������������������

���������������������������

���������������� Making Tracks!

������������������������������������������������

���������

��������

���������

����������

����������

��

��

��

��

��

���������������������������

�������

�����������

�����������������������������������

�����������������������

����������������

���������������������

������������������������

�����������������������������

��������������������������������

�����������������������������������

������������������������������

�����������������������

����������������������������������������������

�����������������������������������������

���������������������������������������

��������������������������������

��������������������������������

�������������������������������������

����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������

��������������������������

Timpanogos Cave National Monument 

and the Uinta National Forest off er a 

variety of Ranger guided activities for 

everyone from Memorial Day to Labor 

Day. The following programs may be 

off ered throughout the summer. All 

programs are subject to change; please 

call the Visitor Center at (801) 756-5238 

for current information. 

Junior 

Rangers:

Saturday, 

10:00-11:00 

a.m. at 

the visitor 

center. 

Make new 

friends 

while learning about 

the special 

wonders 

of American Fork Canyon. If you’re 

between the ages of 4 and 12, ask how 

you can become a Timpanogos Cave 

Junior Ranger. 

Evening Programs:

Fridays, Saturdays, & Mondays

7:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Programs presented either at 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument 

Visitor Center or at Swinging Bridge 

Picnic Area (located 1/4 mile west of the 

Visitor Center).

Birds of Prey

Visitor Center

Learn about the birds of prey that can 

be found throughout American Fork 

Canyon. Live birds may be in attendance.

Nature’s Music in the Canyon

Visitor Center

Enjoy an evening of sights and sounds 

while viewing a slide show of scenic 

American Fork Canyon and surrounding areas. Live acoustic guitar accompaniment provided.

Bats! Flying Creatures of the 

Night

Visitor Center

Afraid of bats? Or do you love those 

furry little fl ying creatures? Either way 

you’ll have fun as you discover the truth 

behind bat myths and folklore.

Refl ections: A History of Mining in American Fork Canyon

Visitor Center

Learn about the colorful history of 

mining in the canyon through slides and 

stories. Hear tales of fortunes gained 

and lost in days gone by.

National Parks: One of America’s Best Ideas

Visitor Center

The National Park Service preserves 

some of the country’s most impressive 

treasures. Learn the history of the National Park Service and what it means to 

Americans and the world.

The Charm of Sssnakes

Visitor Center

Get up close and personal with live 

snakes as a National Park Service 

Ranger introduces you to snakes found 

right here in American Fork Canyon.

Singing in the Canyon: Songs 

of the Summer

Swinging Bridge Picnic Area

In the good ol’ summertime families 

gather around the campfi re and sing 

nostalgic ballads and rousing rounds. 

Rangers will nourish you with songs 

and s’mores.

Legends of the Giants

Visitor Center

Imagine Mount Timpanogos shrouded 

in mist, silently waiting to reveal its 

hidden mysteries. Join a National Park 

Service Ranger as you are led into the 

past through slides, legends, and local 

folklore.

Let’s Make Tracks

Visitor Center

Join a National Park Service Ranger and 

discover how to “read” the clues that 

animals leave behind. Have fun making 

your own animal tracks as you learn 

how to look for these and other animal 

signs.

One Whoppin’ Big Fish Story

Visitor Center

Everything you wanted to know about 

fi shing but were afraid to ask. Join a National Park Service Ranger for a discussion on types of game fi sh in Utah and 

where they are found, how to tie a basic 

outfi t, and basic fi shing practices.

Your Forest Heritage

Visitor Center

Join us for a nostalgic look at the Uinta 

National Forest over the last 100 years 

through slides and stories

Ranger Programs

S B C A V E D E R L

Q U N G D S K L I A

U B N F G E S L B K

I K J S C R W B Q E

R R V T H O C L K J

R I F D I I A D C V

E V M L K J N E R T

L E A F Y G Y E H R

I R O C K O O R Q E

C H I P M U N K F E

American Fork Canyon

Ranger Programs
8 SUMMER 2005

Timpanogos Refl ections

Lone Peak

Timpanogos Cave

148

160

200

035

045

179

031

159

047

238

150

056

036

181

037

051

176 042

188

173

055

046

050

252

038

219

041

048

186

053

052

040

039

151

044

049

033

187

043

Mount

157

Grey Cliffs

Little Mill

Echo

Roadhouse

Martin

Mile Rock

Timpooneke

Altamont

Tibble Fork

Granite Flat

Holman Flat

Silver Lake Flat

Dry Creek

Mount Timpanogos

Alpine Summit

Theater-inthe-Pines

Grove Creek

Battle Creek

Dry Canyon

Canyon Glen

Nunns

Vivian Park

Timpanogos

Peak

11,750

!(92 !@

American Fork Canyon

!Ö

Cascade Springs

!@ Aspen Grove Entrance Station

Aspen Grove

BYU Alumni Camp

Sundance

Ski Resort

Stewarts

Cascades

!@

Pleasant Grove

§ ̈¦I-15 State Street

800 North

Provo Canyon

South Fork Park

043

043

044

044

157

157 157

039

040

157

049

050

!B

£¤189

Box Elder

Peak

11,100

Mill Canyon

Peak

Mahogany

Mtn.

Lake Hardy

Silver Lake

Mutual Dell

!9

Salamander Flat

Forest Lake

!9

!*

To Heber City

Bridal Veil

Falls

Emerald Lake

!(92

To I-15

!(146

FR-114

FR-085

Pine Hollow

Dutchman Flat

Hope Orem Overlook

Pole Line Pass

Pittsburg Lake

Mineral

Basin

To Heber City

Wasatch-Cache

Alta Dry Fork

Alpine

Highland

Pleasant Grove

Lindon

Orem

Provo

Utah Lake

Wasatch

!@

Entrance Station

Uinta National

Ranger Station

National Monument

Wilderness

Forest

State Park

Mountain

National Forest

Wilderness

Timpanogos

!9

!5

!C

!9

!5

!Ë

!9

!C

!C

![

!C

!C

!C

!B

!5

!5!5

![

!<

!C

!C

!<

!9

!<

!<

!<

!C

!B

!C

!B

!C

!9

!C

!9

!9

!5

!5

!5

!C

American Fork Canyon - Recreation Map

Ownership

Uinta National Forest

National Park Service

Private

Utah State Wildlife Management Area

Wilderness

Wasatch Mountain State Park

System Trails

Recreation Sites

!@ Information

!9 Campground

!< Dispersed Camping

!5 Picnic Area

!C Trailhead

!Ë Horse Transfer Station

![ Scenic Overlook

0 0.5 1 2 3

Miles

K Original data was compiled from multiple source data

and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy

Standard of the Office of Management and Budget.

For specific data source dates and/or additional

digital information contact the Forest Supervisor,

Uinta National Forest, Provo. Utah. This map has no

warranties to its contents or accuracy.

Paved Road

Gravel Road