The canyon and its 

resources have been 

utilized by generations 

and have shaped the 

history and character 

of the region. Fremont 

and Ute cultures used 

this canyon, followed 

by explorers and settlers. Over the years 

activities in this canyon 

have included hunting, 

logging camps, sawmills, and the mining 

of gold, silver, lead, 

and other minerals. Later, it became a place for irrigation water and hydrologic power, grazing livestock, building roads 

and trails, and for recreation. Today, the area is still cherished 

for the outdoor opportunities it provides.

American Fork Canyon provides year-round recreational experiences. Summer is the most popular time to visit with hiking, biking, camping, fishing, climbing, riding all-terrain vehicles, viewing scenery, and driving the Alpine Loop being some 

of the most popular activities. Fall brings hunters and visitors 

viewing the dramatic autumn leaves, while winter snow draws 

skiers, snowshoers and snowmobile riders. Finally, spring 

brings meadows full of wildflowers that attract many hikers 

and photographers to this 

alpine environment. 

We invite you to “get outside” and explore your canyon. Regular exercise in 

nature has been proven to 

improve physical and emotional health, and American 

Fork Canyon is a delightful place to begin. From a 

short nature walk exploring 

the wonders of the outdoors 

with small children to a solitary ride through the quaking 

aspen trees on a mountain bike, opportunities abound. Get 

out, explore, and enjoy some of the following activities in 

American Fork Canyon 

Hiking: Over 100 miles of trails are available, from short easy 

nature walks to half-day or full day hikes, to longer multipleday backpack trips. People are able to rejuvenate and de-stress 

by getting away from it all and letting their senses explore the 

natural world as they wander in the woods. Choose a trail that 

meets your needs and spend some time in nature!

Horseback riding: Few 

things are more enjoyable 

than saddling up and riding 

through the forest, listening 

to the breeze in the trees as 

your horse moves up the 

trail. Many trails suitable for 

hiking and biking make for a 

great ride astride a horse. A 

trailhead for equestrian users is located below Granite 

Flat campground, offering 

loading ramps as well as access to the numerous trails 

in the area. 

Camping and picnicking: There are great places to camp and 

picnic in American Fork Canyon. Campgrounds include 

Granite Flat, Timpooneke, Little Mill and Mt. Timpanogos 

which can all be reserved through www.recreation.gov or by 

calling 1-877-444-6777. Picnic sites are also located along the 

Alpine Loop and are open on a first come, first serve basis. 

Mountain biking: The canyon offers miles of single 

track trails with exhilarating climbs and exciting descents through aspen trees, 

fir stands, and open meadows. Whether coming up 

for a quick ride after work 

or planning to spend multiple hours exploring various 

routes, there are a variety of 

bike paths and levels of difficulty throughout the forest. 

Cave tours: Explore millions of years of geologic time as you 

hike the mile-and-a-half trail to the Timpanogos Cave system, 

enjoying spectacular views of the canyon and the valley below. 

Park rangers provide guided tours of the caves on a daily basis. 

Timpanogos

Reflections

Visitor Guide - 2013 National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Continued on page 2

Forest Service

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National 

Forest

What’s New 3 Go Underground 5 Lend A Hand 6

W 

elcome! We hope you enjoy discovering all the recreational 

opportunities this amazing canyon has to offer. There are 

adventures, challenges, and chances to explore for everyone.

Wherever you see this symbol, 

you’ll know your recreation dollars 

are hard at work helping to fund 

this project. Thank you for helping 

to make a difference in your parks 

and forests.

Thank You!

Exploring American Fork Canyon

Volunteers working to clean up picnic areas

NPS

INSIDE:

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

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

Your Fees at Work. . . . . . . . 3

Plan Your Canyon Visit. . . . 4

Canyon Partners. . . . . . . . . . 4

Visiting Timpanogos Cave. . 5

War on Weeds. . . . . . . . . . . 6

Lend A Hand. . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Become a Jr. Ranger. . . . . . . 7

Canyon Kids. . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

American Fork Canyon 

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

Emergency: 911

Sheriff: (801) 375-3601

Fishing: Tibble Fork Reservoir and the 

AmericanFork River are fun places for the 

beginner or the seasoned fisherman to try 

and outsmart the big ones. The reservoir 

is stocked regularly during the summer 

and a Utah fishing license is required for 

everyone twelve years old and over. 

Off-Highway Vehicles: There are many 

adventures that await those visitors willing to experience the challenge of riding 

Fee dollars at work in the Canyon Visit Timpanogos Cave

Biking through autumn leaves Fishing the American Fork River

 Riding OHV’s in the forest

Enjoying nature from horseback

 View from the Alpine Scenic Loop
2 2013

Timpanogos Reflections

an off-highway vehicle on the forest. Please pick up a map at the entrance 

station showing designated routes. 

Rock Climbing: American Fork Canyon is 

home to world class rock 

climbing. Steep limestone cliffs offer a variety 

of bolted routes of varying difficulties. Guidebooks and magazines 

published throughout 

the climbing community 

to The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and Timpanogos Cave National Monument! 

Over 300,000 acres await your exploration and enjoyment in American Fork Canyon. From 

an elevation of 4,500 feet at the entrance to the 11,750 foot summit of Mount Timpanogos, American Fork Canyon offers an experience of unmatched sights, sounds, and solitude. We trust that you will have a wonderful time as you explore and experience this 

great canyon. While you are here, take time to relax and set aside your cares for a while. As you drive through the canyon, hike to 

the cave, ski or snowshoe a wintry trail or watch wildlife foraging in the brush, we hope you will lose yourself in the power of this 

beautiful landscape.

Famed naturalist John Muir once noted that “change is the only constant in the universe”, and American Fork Canyon is not immune. As the population of the Wasatch Front grows each year, so does visitation to the canyon and the surrounding lands. As 

public land managers, we are challenged every day to provide for as much appropriate use and enjoyment of these lands as we can 

while still ensuring their protection today and in the future. It’s a difficult balancing act, and we cannot do it without your help. 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument and the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest belong to us all, and as such, we have a 

shared stewardship role. 

There are many ways to help, from sharing the financial costs through your recreation fees to volunteering your time on a trail 

restoration project, the county search and rescue team, or the Timpanogos Cave trail patrol program. Stay informed and engaged 

as we develop plans and seek public input. The easiest, and most important, is simply to be responsible and respectful of the land 

and other people while you are here. So again, Welcome! These are your public lands to enjoy, protect, and pass on to future generations. We hope you will be refreshed and restored during your visit, and stay connected to this magnificent landscape long 

after you have returned home. 

AmFork Canyon cont.... 

Jon Stansfield

WEB SITES

National Park Service

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

Friends of Timpanogos Cave..www.friendsoftimpanogoscave.org 

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

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

Campground Reservations.....................www.recreation.gov

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

Forest Service - U.S. Department of Agricuture

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

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

Forest Service Campground Reservation www.recreation.gov

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

Other

Public Lands Information.......................www.recreation.gov

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

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

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.... 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 ............................................(800) 662-3337

Utah County Sheriff Dispatch .........................(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

 Wasatch Mountain State Park .......................(435) 654-1791

Nearby National Parks

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

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

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

Glen Canyon .................................................(928) 608-6200

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 ..................................(888) 999-4019

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

Road Conditions............................................(866) 511-8824

Utah County Convention & Visitors Bureau....(800) 222-8824

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

Weather........................................................(801) 524-3057

Jim Ireland

Timpanogos Reflections is published yearly by the 

National Park Service, Timpanogos Cave National 

Monument, and the U.S. Forest Service, UintaWasatch-Cache National Forest, to enhance visitor 

experiences.

Editor-in-Chief:

Michael Gosse, NPS Chief Ranger

Layout & Design:

BJ Cluff, NPS Ranger

Writers:

Michael Gosse, NPS Chief Ranger

Cami McKinney, NPS Chief of Resource Mgmt.

Matthew A. Lane, US Forest Service

Jeff Sorenson, US Forest Service

BJ Cluff NPS Ranger

Jeff Sorenson, US Forest Service

Cheryl Butler, US Forest Service

Feature Story:

Michael Gosse and BJ Cluff, NPS Rangers

Photographers:

Andrew McKinney, NPS Ranger

 cover photo: Silver Lake

Cheryl Butler, US Forest Service

Illustrator:

Karissa DeCarlo, NPS Ranger

Cartographer:

Leah Smith, US Forest Service

Please address comments to:

Editor, Timpanogos Reflections

Timpanogos Cave NM

RR 3, Box 200

American Fork, UT 84003-9800

TICA_Ranger_Activities@nps.gov

Help preserve natural resources. Please return this 

paper to a fee station or Visitor Center.

Welcome! Bienvenue!

Bienvenidos! Wilkommen!

Jon Stansfield Jim Ireland

Pleasant Grove District Ranger Superintendent

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache NF Timpanogos Cave NM

Canyon Passes

Interagency Access Pass 

- Free

This is a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent 

residents with permanent disabilities. Documentation 

is required to obtain the pass and must be obtained in 

person. The pass provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard 

Amenity fee. Non-transferable.

Interagency Senior Pass - $10.00

This is a lifetime pass for U.S. 

citizens or permanent residents 

age 62 or over. The pass provides 

access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity fee. Non-transferable.

The majority of fees collected remain in The American Fork Canyon/Alpine Scenic Loop Area to improve visitor services, 

maintain recreation facilities, enhance wildlife habitat, and protect natural and cultural resources. The Uinta-WasatchCache National Forest, Timpanogos Cave National Monument, and our partners appreciate your support. The following 

passes are available at the fee stations and Forest Service and Park Service offices. Cave tour fees are additional.

Canyon Recreation Annual Pass 

Allows recreating and use of facilities in American Fork Canyon, 

along the Alpine Loop and at Mirror Lake. May be purchased at the 

fee stations or the Pleasant Grove 

Ranger District Office.

Three-day pass - $6.00

Seven-day pass - $12.00

Annual Pass - $45.00

For more information or to purchase the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, Senior Pass or Access Pass online, 

visit the Internet at http://store.usgs.gov/pass or call 1-888-ASKUSGS, Ext. 1.

All Golden Access and Golden Age Passports will continue to be honored according to the provisions of the pass. Only paper 

Golden Age and Access Passports may be exchanged free of charge for new plastic passes.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil 

Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).

offer descriptions about and advice for several established routes. 

Scenic Driving: The Alpine Scenic Loop links American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon with inspiring 

views of the canyon below. Take advantage of the many 

areas to pull over and view the mountain setting. 

Winter recreation: The winter snow provides a completely different playground for cross-country skiing, 

snowmobiling, snow shoeing and winter camping. 

Well prepared and adventurous visitors that come to 

the canyon in winter find an equally full array of activities the canyon provides with a blanket of snow.

For more information 

on any of these activities 

please stop in or contact 

the Pleasant Grove Ranger 

Station or the Timpanogos 

Cave National Monument 

visitor center. As you explore your canyon, please 

remember the many generations before you that 

cared for this place, and do 

your part to leave it better 

than you found it.

America the Beautiful—

National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands

Annual Pass- $80.00

This pass is available to the general 

public and provides access to, and 

use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity Fee for a year, beginning from the date of sale. 

Non-transferable.

Annual Pass for Military - Free

This is an annual pass available 

to active military personnel and 

their dependents. A Department 

of Defense ID (CAC card or DD 

Form 1173) is required to obtain 

the pass and must be obtained in 

person. The pass provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity fee. 

Non-transferable.

 Family picnicking Enjoying a hike
3

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

American Fork Canyon offers a wide array of recreational opportunities. Whether you prefer fishing, 

hiking, camping, cycling, or taking leisurely drives 

along the beautiful winding roads, American Fork 

Canyon has it all. Many of the amenities that make 

this canyon so appealing to 1.2 million visitors annually are made possible by your canyon fees. The 

majority of canyon fees are applied directly toward 

projects within American Fork Canyon. Without fee 

dollars, many of these projects could not be finished 

due to a lack of available funding. Keep reading to 

find out where your fees have been hard at work.

Forest Service Staffing 

Seasonal Forest Rangers at Tibble Fork Reservoir 

helped educate visitors about trails, regulations, and 

provide area information. They were also able to 

hand out brochures, maps, and educational materials 

as neccesary. 

Cave Tours and Ranger Programs

Timpanogos Cave National Monument hired three 

additonal National Park Service rangers with support 

from fee revenue, increasing visitor safety and interpretive programming. These rangers also provided 

cave tours and free guided walks at Cascade Springs 

throughout the season.

Maintenance and Improvements Made Possible 

by Your Fees in 2012 

Trails

•Designed and printed handouts of trail descriptions 

as well as updated the Forest Service website to provide accurate information to trail users

•Provided signs on trails during the wet season to 

better inform public and reduce resource damage

•Installed new trail junction signs

•Maintained and repaired multiple signs throughout 

the canyon

•Performed general trail maintenance on over 60 

miles of trail within the fee area

•Finalized construction of the reroute on the South 

Fork of Little Deer Creek trail and opened the trail 

for use

•Collaborated with Trails Unlimited to complete trail 

reroute designs for sections of the Ridge Trail and 

the East Ridge Trail

•Conducted extensive maintenance on the Timpooneke Trail, which included heavy tread maintenance and rock removal, clearing brush, drainage 

structures, building rock retaining walls and closing 

switchback shortcuts

Wilderness 

•Completed campsite inventories, educated visitors, removed illegal fire rings, and assisted with the 

Timpanogos Emergency Response Team

•Installed new Timpanogos Wilderness sign at the 

Mount Timpanogos Trailhead

Dispersed Recreation

•Cleaned and maintained dispersed camping sites at 

Holman, Salamander Flat, and other camping sites

Recreation Fee Programs

•Installed high efficiency air unit at the American 

Fork Contact Station to eliminate safety issues

•Replaced high security door at the Aspen Grove Station

•Installed rain gutters at the Aspen Grove Station

Developed Recreation

•Performed maintenance on seven picnic area, two 

interpretive sites, and two fishing sites

•Conducted maintenance on seven dispersed group 

sites, two winter x-country ski sites, and 24 trailheads

•Patrolled front country roads, forest roads, and 

backcountry roads

•Pumped toilets as needed

•Cleaned restrooms and removed litter at day use 

sites and trailheads

•Repaired and installed signs

•Removed hazardous trees in campgrounds and day 

use areas to enhance visitor safety

•Inspected and reported on conditions and needs of 

campgrounds

•Moved waterline and bathroom at Timpooneke 

campground to facilitate reconstruction of the parking lot

•Built, installed, and stained three kiosks at the Timpooneke trailhead

•Repainted the bathrooms at Tibble Fork and Holman Flat

•Installed interpretive panels at Timpooneke trailhead

Timpooneke Trailhead Reconstruction 2012

The hike from the trailhead at Timpooneke campground into the high alpine wilderness of Mount 

Timpanogos is perhaps one of the most beautiful 

hikes in American Fork Canyon; as a result it is also 

one of the most popular. With the previous parking 

lot able to accommodate only thirty-six vehicles, it 

was not uncommon to find up to 100 vehicles parked 

along the already narrow Alpine Loop road during 

summer weekends or holidays. Given the high elevation of Timpooneke, the parking lot spends most of 

the year deep beneath the mountain snowpack. 

For this reason the trailhead had to be rebuilt during 

the busiest time of year, summer and fall. 

Rebuilding the trailhead was no easy task. The first 

step was to re-route the waterline, which provides 

water to hikers, as well as the campground. This was 

done so it would not be damaged by the equipment 

that would remove the tons of asphalt and concrete 

from the existing parking lot. Next heavy equipment 

had to create room for the new parking lot in the difficult mountainous terrain. The restroom was then 

relocated, as its current location was where the new 

parking lot would be built. Cranes were brought in to 

move the solid concrete building. After preparatory 

work was finished the new lot was paved, and interpretive kiosks were built and placed to offer visitors 

information regarding recreational opportunities in 

the area. 

The newly reconstructed lot was funded by a combination of Utah Divison of State Parks and Recreation 

grant and fee dollars. The lot can now accommodate 

up to 99 vehicles (almost three times the size of the 

previous parking lot) with four handicap accessible 

stalls. Expanding the size of this popular and wellused trailhead parking lot should make a safe and 

more enjoyable site visit for all hikers. 

The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest thanks 

the public for their patience and support during the 

reconstruction of the trailhead, and hopes the newly 

improved parking lot may better serve the needs of 

those who enjoy recreating in beautiful American 

Fork Canyon. 

Without public support, these and other projects 

could not be completed. For information or comments on any of these projects, please contact:

Pleasant Grove Ranger District

390 North 100 East

Pleasant Grove, Utah 84062

(801) 785-3563

Timpanogos Cave National Monument 

RR 3, Box 200

American Fork, UT 84003

(801) 756-5239

Your Canyon Fees at Work

Timpooneke parking lot and trailhead reconstruct

When: Tuesdays and Saturday 10 A.M. 

June-July 2013

Where: Meet at the Gazebo at Cascade Springs in 

the lower parking lot

All ages are invited to attend this free accessible program. Be prepared with water, sunscreen, and walking shoes. Please call (801) 756-5238 or visit www.

nps.gov/tica and click calendar of events for details.

Free Ranger-Guided Tours 

of Cascade Springs

Learn about Cascade Springs with a ranger.

NPS

A model dispersed campsite

 Timpanogos Cave ranger programs

Restroom maintainence

Trail reconstruction project
4 2013

Timpanogos Reflections

Make the Most of Your Canyon Visit

A Few Hours

Explore the Canyon Nature Trail. Start this 

easy, paved trail at Swinging Bridge Picnic area or 

across from the Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center. 

Along the 1/4 mile trail, new exhibits highlight the 

habitats, plants and animals found in the Canyon. 

Take in an Evening Program or Junior Ranger 

Program. Join a Ranger at the Timpanogos Cave 

Visitor Center on Friday evenings from 7:00 to 

8:00 p.m. for presentations about the park and 

surrounding areas.

Pack a Lunch. Picnic areas with tables, grills, 

water, and restrooms are available at Swinging 

Bridge picnic area at Timpanogos Cave, and at 

USFS sites along Highway 92, and Route 144 to 

Tibble Fork Reservoir.

A Half Day

Drive the Loop. The 20-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 on Forest Service Road 114, and consists of boardwalks over 

springs cascading down the mountain slope in a 

series of limestone terraces and pools.

Hike to the Cave. Stop to check ticket availability at the Timpanogos Cave visitor center or call 

in advance to 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 1,092 feet to the cave 

entrance.

Ride a Bike or a Horse. Explore the multiple use 

trails available in the 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 developed campgrounds. Each site offers a table, grill, and access to water and restrooms during the 

summer.

Take a Hike. Over 

100 miles of hiking 

trails in the canyon 

range from level and 

easy to steep and 

arduous. Stop and 

ask a Ranger at the 

Timpanogos Cave 

Visitor Center or 

Pleasant Grove District Office for recommended hikes, 

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.

Mt Timpanogos Wilderness

American Fork Canyon 

Partners Working Together

The American Fork Canyon/Alpine Loop 

Recreation Fee Area could not be maintained without the help of several surrounding agencies and organizations. 

The U.S. Forest Service, National Park 

Service, Utah Department of Transportation, Utah County Sheriff, Utah County 

Search and Rescue, Wasatch Mountain 

State Park, Lone Peak Fire, Mountainland Association of Governments, the 

Timpanogos Emergency Response Team 

(TERT), and volunteers from the public 

all come together with the common goal 

of making the American Fork-Alpine 

Loop Recreation Fee Area a better place 

to visit. Each partner contributes to the 

area in different ways:

The U.S. Forest Service, National Park 

Service, and Utah State Parks all manage their respective areas, including picnic sites, trails, campgrounds, and visitor 

centers.In addition they provide a variety 

of visitor services such as fire prevention 

and interpretive programming. 

UDOT provides safe road ways by maintaining SR-92 and SR-114, which includes roadway resurfacing, hazard tree 

removal, and snow and ice removal.

Utah County Sheriff/Search and Rescue 

responds to law enforcement incidents, 

medical emergencies, search and rescue, 

and fires. Lone Peak Fire also responds 

to medical and fire emergencies.TERT 

provides Wilderness and Leave No Trace 

information and first aid to visitors in the 

Mount Timpanogos Wilderness Area.

Without all of these partners and volunteers, the task of providing a safe and 

enjoyable recreational experience in the 

American Fork Canyon would not be 

possible. Each partner plays an important role in achieving the overall operation. Everyone working together and interacting well with the public makes this 

special area what it is today. 

Evening Program at Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center

Making the Roadway Safe for Everyone

Every year thousands of people hike 

the trails leading to the summit of 

Mount Timpanogos, located in the 

Mount Timpanogos Wilderness area. 

The mountain’s beautiful scenery, 

wildflowers, wildlife, and rich history 

coupled with its proximity to a large 

urban area make Mount Timpanogos 

one of the most highly visited areas 

along the Wasatch Front. 

Unfortunately, this high use is creating 

serious resource and social impacts. To 

help protect the natural resources and 

beauty of this area, please: 

•Keep your total group size at or below 

15 people, and try to avoid busy Saturdays and Holidays from the first of July 

through Labor Day weekend. This will 

help reduce congestion along the trail 

and in the parking lot.

•Plan ahead so you do not need to have 

a campfire. Campfires are prohibited 

year-round due to scarce fuel and high 

visitation; unsightly fire scars take years 

to heal.

•Stay on the designated trails. Trails 

are constructed to protect resources 

in the wilderness area and create enjoyable experiences. By shortcutting 

a switchback you cause resource and 

trail damage, erosion, and create safety 

concerns for yourself and other visitors. Shortcutting switchbacks is prohibited; please stay on the main trail.

•Remember that motorized and mechanized equipment and transportation are 

prohibited in Wilderness areas.

•Pack out everything you bring with you. 

Leave the area better than you found it.

•Use the bathrooms at the trailhead before and after your hike. If you have to go 

to the bathroom during your hike, bury 

human waste in a cat hole 6-8” deep and 

at least 200’ from water, trails, and campsites.

•Don’t pick wildflowers. The wildflowers on Mount Timpanogos are one of the 

main visitor attractions. Wildflowers are 

very sensitive, and if picked will be wilted 

before you even get back to the trailhead. 

Remember that removing wildflowers is 

prohibited, and by pulling them you are 

taking the seeds which would have provided next year’s spectacular wildflower 

display.

For more information on the Mount 

Timpanogos Wilderness area and other 

wilderness areas across the nation please 

visit www.wilderness.net

Preserving the 

Mount Timpanogos

Wilderness Area

Whether you enjoy camping, bicycling, hiking or an 

afternoon picnic with your 

family, the Utah Department of Transportation 

encourages you to be safe 

while driving through the 

canyon. 

Please note that the speed limit changes 

from 35 miles per hour to 20 miles per 

hour through the canyon and there are 

many people using the roadway at the 

same time. Be courteous to 

bicyclists, hikers, and drivers 

pulling trailers. Being in a hurry and driving aggressively will 

not get you to your destination 

any faster, and could cause a 

major accident or loss of life.

Should you get behind a slow 

moving vehicle - Relax. Take a deep 

breath, chat with a companion, or listen 

to some music. Remember driving is not 

a race. Please leave your competitive instincts at home. Take a few minutes to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the canyon. 

Treat others the way you would like to be 

treated. Courteous driving encourages 

other drivers to be courteous as well. 

When driving, always remember to wear 

your seat belt and make sure everyone in 

your vehicle has their seat belt on as well. 

As the stewards of Utah’s roads, safety for 

everyone is a top priority. With your help 

we can all enjoy a safe and pleasant summer season in American Fork Canyon. 

Hike on designated trails

Help protect the natural beauty 

UDOT clearing rockfall

TERT team rescue
5

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

The Western National Parks Association is a nonprofit cooperating 

association of the National Park Service. Through book sales the association 

helps support the interpretive activities at Timpanogos Cave National 

Monument. For more information please visit the Western National Parks 

Association web site at www.wnpa.org.

Visiting Timpanogos Cave

National Monument

Cave Tours

Tours of the three adjoining caves are 

offered from Memorial Day weekend 

through late September, conditions permitting. 

Guided by National Park Rangers, these 

45-60 minute tours are limited to 16 people. Plan on spending about 3 to 4 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.

Bring 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 45oF [7oC]). Cameras and flashlights are welcome.

Inside the Caves

The three highly decorated limestone 

caves are known for their abundance of 

helictites—spiral, twisting cave formations. Along the 1/3 mile tour deep inside 

the mountain, you’ll discover many other interesting, colorful features. Anthodite crystals, stalagmites, stalactites, cave 

drapery, and flowstone adorn the rooms 

and winding passages. Coral fossils from 

an ancient sea are also visible in places 

along the tour.

Hiking to the Caves

To reach the Timpanogos Cave system, 

which is located 6,730 feet above sea 

level, visitors must hike the 1.5 mile (2.4 

kilometer) hard-surfaced cave trail. The 

trail, which rises 1,092 feet (325 meters), 

is a strenuous hike. Anyone with heart 

trouble or breathing problems should 

not attempt the hike. Those under 16 

years of age 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 bit more strenuous and 

requires bending and crawling through 

tighter passages. Group size is limited to 

5. Participants must be at least 14 years 

old. Call (801) 756-5238 for details. 

Junior Ranger Program 

and Patio Talks

Children who visit the caves can earn 

a Junior Ranger certificate and badge 

at the Visitor Center. Patio talks are on 

Saturdays and holidays, Memorial Day 

through Labor Day, at the Visitor Center. 

These free ranger programs are for kids 

of all ages!

Cascade Springs Walks

Meet a ranger for a free guided walk at 

10 AM Tuesdays and Saturdays June-July 

2013 at the gazebo in the lower parking 

lot at Cascade Springs. Rangers will be 

available throughout the day on Tuesday 

and Saturday.

BATS Program

Youth ages 14-18 are invited to volunteer 

as “Behind A Tour Specialists” (BATS). 

These youth go through specialized training to prepare them to assist the rangers. 

BATS work at the cave following tours to 

help with any problems that may arise. 

For more information call (801) 756-5238 

and ask about the BATS program. Applications are taken throughout the year for 

summer volunteer work.

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), 

and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. after Labor 

Day until the visitor center closes for the 

season.

Picnic Area and Nature Trail 

The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area is 1/4 

mile west of the Visitor Center, and is 

wheelchair accessible. The self-guided 

1/4 mile Canyon Nature Trail will lead 

you there; parking is also available onsite. Cooking grills, drinking water, and 

fire rings are available at the picnic sites. 

A small, shaded, streamside picnic area is 

also located directly across the road from 

the Visitor Center.

Parking

Because of the limited parking and congestion in the canyon on Saturdays, we 

strongly encourage visitors to see the 

caves other days of the week for a more 

enjoyable visit. Please do not park along 

the narrow roadway.

Gift Shop and Snack Bar

Food, snacks, beverages, film, clothing, 

souvenirs, as well as a shaded eating area 

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, visit www.nps.

gov/tica and click calendar of events or 

follow us on Twitter or Facebook. Check 

our Twitter feed for the latest updates on 

ticket availability, parking, and emergency closures. 

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

Senior/Access Pass. . . . . . . . 50%

Introduction to Caving Tour. $15.00

 Cave Tour Pricing

Timpanogos Cave tours are now 100% reservable, up to 30 days in advance. Every spot on 

every tour can be pre-purchased, making planning your visit easier. Visitors who purchase 

their tickets in advance will also have the added advantage of the monument being able 

to contact them if conditions change and their tour needs to be rescheduled. Interested? 

Please call 801-756-5238 to purchase advance tickets and have a credit card handy.

Didn’t get your tickets in advance? Each day’s remaining tickets become available when 

the Visitor Center opens. Except for Saturdays and holidays, there are almost always a 

few tickets each morning, but they go fast. Check our Twitter feed for the latest updates 

on ticket availability, parking, and emergency closures. Rangers are happy to review 

availability for you, and assist you with purchasing tickets for another date if necessary.

Do your part to protect bats from a 

deadly fungus. Though it has not yet 

been found in this region, we want 

to keep it that way. All visitors taking 

a cave tour this season will be asked, 

“Are you wearing or carrying articles 

taken into ANY cave or mine at ANY 

time?” If so, you will be asked to see 

a ranger to discuss cleaning options. If 

not, enjoy your cave tour!

 Like us today! www.facebook.com/timpanogoscavenps

 Follow us today! @TimpCaveNPS

We’ve Gone Social! Like/Follow Timpanogos Cave 

Monument Bookstore

You’ll find many interesting materials to enhance your canyon experience at the 

Western National Parks Association Bookstore in the Timpanogos Cave Visitor 

Center. We offer books, posters, postcards, maps, gift items, and a whole lot 

more. Be sure to come see us while you’re here!

Friends of Timpanogos Cave is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization 

actively involved in making a difference for Timpanogos Cave National 

Monument. Through membership, donation, or volunteering you can be 

a part of providing and maintaining the great experiences and resources we all love 

at Timpanogos Cave. Please join us by visiting www.friendsoftimpanogoscave.org for 

more information, to become a member, or to make a donation. 

Friends of Timpanogos Cave - a 501 C 3 non-profit

New! All Cave Tours are 100% Reservable

 White-nose Syndrome 

Screening Procedures

 Junior Ranger programs

 Take a cave tour

The Great Heart of Timpanogos
6 2013

Timpanogos Reflections

Tank Canyon Fire 2012

Many people in Utah Valley as well as 

visitors to American Fork Canyon observed a smoke plume lingering throughout the late summer and autumn of 2012. 

The smoke was from a lightning-caused 

wildfire burning in a remote, rugged area 

near Tank Canyon. Inquiries, speculation, and curiosity swirled around the 

fire. Fire personnel and information officers repeatedly assured the public that 

the fire was being actively managed. So, 

what does that mean? 

The Incident Commander for the fire 

developed an action plan, which provided detailed instructions and information 

about the wildfire. A list of priorities was 

identified, which first and foremost is to 

provide for firefighter and public safety. 

Firefighting is inherently dangerous and 

can be difficult. Regardless, reducing 

or eliminating all injuries to firefighters 

is always the number one objective for 

managers. 

An example of proper risk management 

occurred on the Tank Fire in September 

2012. The fire was sparked by lightning 

and burned north of Timpanogos Cave 

in the Lone Peak Wilderness area. The 

fire continued to burn on the ridgeline 

between Swinging Bridge Creek and 

Tank Canyon in very steep and nearly 

inaccessible terrain. An initial attack 

squad was dispatched and instructed to 

find ground access into the area. It took 

the squad nearly two hours to access the 

fire from Swinging Bridge Creek, hiking 

up steep rugged terrain. If an injury had 

occurred from rolling rocks or logs, falls, 

snakes bites or other hazards, extraction 

would have proven difficult. 

Realizing ground access would be timeconsuming and dangerous, other methods of fire fighting were considered. 

One option was to identify a landing 

zone along the ridge to fly fire fighters in 

via helicopter. Unfortunately, no suitable areas were available. Helicopters 

were used to drop water to keep the fire 

contained, but the steep terrain caused 

heavy updraft winds which limited use 

and effectiveness of helicopters. Many 

times when fires are too dangerous for 

ground resources, aircraft becomes the 

primary tool to suppress a fire; this in 

return is a transfer of risk and must be 

carefully examined to ensure it is the 

best overall option.

Eventually, a decision was made to utilize minimal resources due to risk of firefighter safety, time of year, increasing relative humidity, and minimal fire growth 

potential. This decision mitigated risk to 

firefighters and pilots as well. Each decision was based on the simple question 

“Are we providing for firefighter and 

public safety first?”. 

The fire eventually burned through 

available fuel in the area and, aided by 

cooler temperatures and precipitation, 

was extinguished.

Due to summer weather patterns and 

lightning, as well as irresponsible practices by people, the threat of wild fire 

exists. Unchecked wild fire has the potential to cause damage to wildlife, the 

forest, and people. Because of future 

danger to American Fork Canyon and 

responding firefighters, please be careful with fire and follow all existing fire 

restrictions. 

Winning the War on Weeds

Non-Native Aliens

Non-native plants, also called exotic or 

alien, are plant species that have been introduced into an area in which they did 

not evolve. Many thrive in disturbed areas, such as 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

Invasive plants can quickly take over native landscapes, robbing wildlife of their 

natural food and shelter. Invasive plants 

defined as noxious weeds are difficult to 

control and often spread quickly. Some 

of the most troublesome weeds found in 

American Fork Canyon include Dalmation Toadflax, Spotted Knapweed, Leafy 

Spurge, Cheatgrass, and Hounds Tongue. 

The U.S. Forest Service and the National 

Park Service use 

many tools to limit 

the spread of invasive plants. This 

includes biological control (insects 

that are a specific 

plant’s natural 

predator), manual 

removal, mulching, and the use of 

chemical herbicides when neccesary. 

Success of Native Plants

As exotic plants are removed, natives are 

planted to help restore the natural landscape. One good area to see this process 

first 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 several years, and native plants are now being planted in their place. Common native trees in the area are the Cottonwood, 

Quaking Aspen, and Choke Cherry. 

Beautiful native wildflowers such as asters, penstemons, buttercups, violets, and 

lupines can be seen in American Fork 

Canyon in the spring and early summer 

months.

Spread of Seeds 

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

wildflowers 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.

Planting Natives

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 

flowerbed. 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. 

Cave tour fees may be waived for 

schools or other bona fide educational 

institutions. For more information and 

the application for educational waivers 

check out our website filled with helpful 

tips for planning your visit at 

www.nps.gov/tica or call the 

Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center at 

(801) 756-5238.

Find Options for Your Class

Click the for teachers link on the left 

side of the homepage.

The right side menu links to the educational fee waiver application, 

Timpanogos Cave classroom packet, 

web ranger activities, and more.

•	 Apply for fee waivers early; they are 

extremely popular.

•	 The classroom packet can supplement lessons all year long. Consider using these activities to prepare 

your class prior to visiting.

•	 Web Ranger on-line activities are 

fun games about the National Park 

System and those that complete required activities earn a patch! Visit 

www.nps.gov/webrangers

•	 Ranger visits to your classroom may 

also be arranged. Please call (801) 

756-5239 to find out more.

Teacher’s Tips

The Tank Canyon fire burning high in the 

cliffs of American Fork Canyon, Fall 2012 

The Tank Canyon Fire (shown in the 

distance) burned off and on throughout 

autumn. 

Lending 

a Hand

Summer 2012 was another great season 

for the Pleasant Grove Ranger District 

and Timpanogos Cave National Monument, because of the help of volunteers. 

There were many groups and organizations who adopted trails, roads, and 

recreational sites. Thanks to the individual groups who dedicated time to help 

maintain the public lands we all enjoy 

and who kept visitors safe while there. 

Thanks to the Boy Scouts who did a 

great job organizing and directing Eagle 

Scout projects. Volunteers are a valuable 

resource for the canyon and are greatly 

appreciated!

 

Projects in the Forest included fixing the 

fence at Dutchman Flat, trail maintenance on Timpooneke Trail, and willow 

transplants at the Pacific Mine Ponds. 

Projects at Timpanogos Cave included 

trail patrol, removal of fire hazards, maintenance on historic structures (above), 

and youth volunteers in the BATS program. 

 

Volunteer groups from Utah Four Wheel 

Drive Association, Lone Peek Four 

Wheelers, Rocky Mountain Xtreme, 

Utah 4X4 Club, and Dirt Headz made 

National Public Lands Day an enormous 

success. Volunteers working on Graveyard Flat constructed 500 feet of log and 

block fence to protect the historic nature 

of the site. Volunteers also improved 

parking for recreational users there, and 

closed sections of non-system roads.

 

Volunteers will be a vital part of the 2013 

season also. If you are interested in volunteering, please call the Pleasant Grove 

Ranger District at (801)785-3563, or 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument 

at (801) 756-5239. 

Above: Toadflax often 

chokes out native 

species. 

Above: Beautitful 

native plants like 

penstemon grow 

in place of weeds

Right: Lupine and 

paintbrush are 

native plants that 

also do well here 

 Hound’s tongue seeds stick to clothes 

Graveyard Flat fence builders

Volunteers help maintain historic homes
7

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Answers:

 1=E, 2=B, 3=A, 4=C, 5=D. Museum Match:

Never explore alone-stay with a buddy. Play it Safe Outdoors: 

Canyon Kids Become a Junior Ranger

NPS

UTDNR

Fun Fact:

Townsend’s 

Big-eared bats 

(Corynorhinus 

townsendii)

are known for 

their large, pink 

ears. To keep 

them warm, they 

role up their ears, 

and tuck them 

under each wing.

Funny Bone

Q: What runs but never walks? A: A river.

Q: How do trees access their email? A: They log in.

Timpanogos Cave’s 90th Season!

Can you imagine celebrating that many birthdays? This calls for a

celebration! Test your cave history knowledge below by matching the 

museum collection items to the descriptions.

Help Bat Get to the Cave

Squirrel finds the acorn 

Created by Puzzlemaker at DiscoveryEducation.com

Puzzlemaker Maze Page 

Home!

Remember...

Play it Safe Outdoors

Hint: Discoveries are more fun when shared with others!

Smokey

Only YOU can prevent wildfires!

At Timpanogos Cave

Earn your choice of a badge or 

patch while you learn! Stop by the 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument Visitor Center and pick up your 

free Junior Ranger booklet. 

Take a cave tour, watch the monument video, ask a ranger for help 

and work with your friends, brothers, sisters, parents or guardians to 

complete the booklet. Bring your 

completed booklet back to the 

Visitor Center for a ranger to review and sign. Take the Junior 

Ranger pledge and receive 

your badge or patch.

Junior Ranger Programs

Every Saturday and holiday 

from Memorial Day through 

Labor Day, free Junior Ranger 

programs are held from 10:00 

to 11:00 a.m. on the Visitor Center deck.

At Wasatch Mountain 

State Park 

Earn your badge and certificate while you learn! Stop 

by the Wasatch Mountain 

State Park visitor center, call them at 

(435) 654-1791 or visit www.stateparks.utah.gov/parks/wasatch for 

details.

Junior Ranger Programs

From Memorial Day through Labor 

Day, Junior Ranger programs are offered. Check with the park for more 

information.

1) Discovered Hansen Cave in 1887

2) Once sold at the 

cave entrance

3) 14-year old boys 

who discovered 

Timpanogos Cave

4) This cost 25 

cents per child 

in 1922

5) Early souvenir 

A) James W. Gough and Frank Johnson

C) Early cave tour ticket

E) Martin Hansen

D) Sticker

B) Soda bottle

•	 Always BE CAREFUL with fire.

•	 NEVER play with matches or lighters.

•	 Always WATCH your campfire.

•	 Make sure your campfire is COMPLETELY OUT 

before leaving it.

Thank You,

NPS NPS

NPS

NPS

NPS
8 2013

Timpanogos Reflections