Do you love American Fork Canyon? You’re in good 

company. The canyon is a natural playground for an estimated 1.2 million people each year, with Timpanogos Cave 

National Monument alone attracting 120,000. American 

Fork Canyon’s clean air, challenging terrain, dramatic 

vistas, and proximity to the city make it an easy escape for a 

variety of outdoor activities. 

While most people associate American Fork Canyon with 

destinations like Timpanogos Cave, Mount Timpanogos, 

and the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, it has many other recreation activities to offer. Did you know the canyon provides access to two Congressionally-designated Wilderness 

areas? That it provides expert rock-climbing terrain and 

is considered by many the birthplace of American sport 

climbing? That it attracts ATV and horse owners from 

throughout the region since these activities are not allowed 

in Salt Lake County’s portion of the Central Wasatch? That 

many road cyclists challenge the Alpine Loop daily while 

fly fisherman seek quiet stretches of the American Fork 

River? It may sit in Utah County’s back yard, but American 

Fork Canyon is a treasure for the region, the state of Utah, 

and the nation. 

Here’s the challenge: The population of Salt Lake and Utah 

Counties will reach a combined 2.5 million people by 2040, 

compared with 1.5 million today. This increase will put 

substantial new pressure on the canyon and its transportation, environmental, and recreation systems. As the canyon 

becomes more heavily used, conflicts between uses and 

users will emerge and grow. Can you imagine canyon use 

almost doubling? How will people move around, where 

will they park, and what activities should be available to 

them? How do we protect resources and the quality of user 

experiences in the canyon? 

2015 will be a momentous year for 

American Fork Canyon. Over the next 

year, local, state, and 

federal government 

officials, private 

stakeholders, canyon 

users, and the general public will work 

together to build a 

first-ever vision for 

the canyon. The 

vision will consider 

opportunities, challenges, and ideas for the canyon’s future, and will identify 

the goals, policies, and strategies needed to get there. 

Would you like to see public transit in the canyon, or 

would you prefer more designated parking for cars? Would 

you like to see improved winter-time access that provides 

better backcountry opportunities, perhaps even a connection to developed ski resorts in Little Cottonwood 

Canyon? Do you have ideas about how to strike a balance 

between motorized and non-motorized uses? What about 

more campsites, better signs on hiking routes, or road 

cycling lanes? 

Add your voice and become part of building the vision 

for the future of our canyon. Here’s what to do: visit the 

project website at www.AFCVision.com to learn about 

the Visioning process and to stay up to date on public 

events. You’ll find links to important statistics, reports, 

and a survey that will help us understand how you use the 

canyon. You’ll also find a web form you can use to contact 

the project team and tell us your own vision for the canyon. With input from all who care about this special place, 

it will be possible to come up with a much better vision for 

the entire canyon, for now and the future. 

Visitor Guide - 2015

Pull out map inside

National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Forest Service

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

What’s New 3 Trail Tips 6 Go Underground 7

T 

his beautiful canyon we all love is visited by over a million people every year. Learn how you can become a part of the decision 

making process that will guide the future of this special place. 

Wherever you see this symbol, you 

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!

American Fork Canyon Vision Project

Hiking in American Fork Canyon

INSIDE:

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

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

Silver Lake Dam Rehab. . . . 2

Canyon Fees, Trail Info. . . . 3

Picnicking and Camping. . . 4

Fires, Shooting, Panning. . . 4

National Forest Map.. . . . . . 5

Hiking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Wet Trail Closures. . . . . . . . 6

Wilderness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Visit Timpanogos Cave. . . . 7

Canyon Kids, Jr. Rangers. . . 8

Emergency: 911

Sheriff: (801) 794-3970

Fee dollars at work in the canyon Visit Timpanogos Cave

Timpanogos

Reflections

Every year, visitors bring rangers wildlife that they think are sick, injured, or 

abandoned. While well-meaning, touching or transporting these animals can be 

dangerous for visitors and for the animals 

themselves. In many cases, there is nothing wrong with the animal. If you come 

across seemingly sick, injured, or abandoned wildlife, PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH 

THE ANIMAL. 

Young deer 

and other 

animals are 

often left 

alone while 

their mother 

forages. They 

are adapted 

to lie still and 

do not have 

any natural scent that attracts predators. 

If you move or touch these infants, their 

mothers may not be able to find or accept them upon their return. 

Report wildlife concerns to U.S. Forest 

Service or National Park Service officials, 

but please do not touch or move any 

wildlife you encounter. 

Wildlife concerns

 A young fawn waits for its 

mother
2 2015

Timpanogos Reflections

Over 300,000 acres await your exploration 

and enjoyment in and around American 

Fork Canyon. From the 11,750 foot summit of Mount Timpanogos down to the American Fork River, the canyon offers 

tremendous natural beauty, adventure, and respite from your daily routine. We 

trust that you will have a wonderful time as you explore and experience this 

wonderful canyon. While you are here, slow down and relax. There are many 

different ways to enjoy this place, but whether you seek silence and solitude or a 

ride with friends, your time here should leave you refreshed and renewed.

Today, the area sees almost 1.2 million visitors each year. This number will only 

increase as our local population grows, and more people take advantage of this 

great recreational resource in their backyards. As public land managers, we are 

committed to engaging with all of our neighbors as we create a long-range vision for the canyon which protects its resources, maintains access and sustains 

diverse, high-quality recreation experiences while minimizing user conflicts. It’s 

a tall order, and we need everyone’s help.

Even if you are just here a short time, be mindful of other users and how your 

activities affect them and the environment. Being responsible and respectful 

of the land and others is something everyone can and should do. If you have 

more time, consider volunteering by helping maintain a trail, joining the county 

Search and Rescue or Timpanogos Emergency Response Team, or helping out 

at Timpanogos Cave. Participate in the American Fork Canyon Vision planning 

process, and help shape the future of the canyon. Finally, drive safely. In addition to many bicycles on the roads, you may see large trucks hauling materials 

and some traffic delays as we begin work to rehabilitate Silver Lake Flat dam this 

year. 

Please be safe and have a great visit,

Jon Stansfield Jim Ireland

Pleasant Grove District Ranger Superintendent

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache NF Timpanogos Cave NM

Jon Stansfield

SOCIAL MEDIA

National Park Service - Timpanogos Cave

Facebook...............www.facebook.com/timpanogoscavenps

Twitter...........................................................@TimpCaveNPS

U.S. Forest Service - Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest

Facebook U.S. Forest Service Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National 

Forest 

Twitter ...............................UintaWastachCacheNF@UWCNF

WEB SITES

USFS Campground Reservation and NPS Timpanogos Cave 

Tour Tickets ..........................................www.recreation.gov

National Park Service

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

Friends of Timpanogos Cave..www.friendsoftimpanogoscave.org 

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

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

Forest Service - U.S. Department of Agricuture

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache NF................www. fs.usda.gov/uwcnf

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

Other

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

Utah County Sheriff Dispatch...........(801) 794-3970

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

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

Other

Avalanche Information....................(888) 999-4019

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

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

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

Ranger Stations

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

Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center......(801) 756-5239

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

Nearby National Park Sites

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

Canyonlands.................................(435) 719-2313

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

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

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

Dinosaur National Monument.......(435) 781-7700

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

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

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

Jim Ireland

Welcome! Bienvenidos!

Canyon Passes

Interagency Access Pass - Free

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

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 following passes are available 

at the information contact stations and Forest Service and Park 

Service offices. Cave tour and camping costs 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 

information contact stations, or the Pleasant 

Grove Ranger District Office.

Three-day pass - $6.00

Seven-day pass - $12.00

Annual Pass - $45.00

America the Beautiful—

National Parks and Federal 

Recreational Lands

Annual Pass- $80.00

Available to the general public, this 

pass 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. Nontransferable.

Annual Pass for Military - Free

An annual pass available to ActiveDuty 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.

Silver Lake Flat Dam Rehabilitation

May - November 2015 (weather dependent)

Silver Lake Dam was built in 1971, and does not currently meet Natural Resource Conservation 

Service and Utah State Dam Safety Regulations. This project will help restore the designed storage 

capacity in the reservoir by raising water levels, enlarging the spillway, and strengthening the Dam 

to withstand a 7.5 magnitude earthquake. 

Impact to Visitors 

•	 Horse Transfer Station will be Closed to stage equipment. 

•	 Silver Lake Flat Connector Trail #045 will be Closed during construction. 

•	 Silver Lake Reservoir will be Closed and drained during the construction period.

•	 Silver Lake Trailhead will remain Open to the public, but visitors should expect delays 

 when coming and going. 

•	 Silver Lake Flat Road #008 will remain Open, however, visitors should expect delays as 

this road will also be used by the construction crew. Dispersed parking spaces along the 

road will be closed as they will be used to stage equipment. 

Safety

Remember to plan for delays, slow down, and be aware of construction equipment and workers. 

Exercize caution around increased traffic, due to large haul trucks in canyon.

Additional information can be found at the Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest website at www.

fs.usda.gov/uwcnf, or call the Pleasant Grove Ranger District at (801) 785-3563. 

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

Silver Lake Flat Dam

 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. 

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

go to http://store.usgs.gov/pass or call 1-888-ASKUSGS, Ext 1. 
3

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

2014 was another great year for improvements in the American Fork Canyon - 

Alpine Loop Recreation area. The fees that were collected supported a variety of 

projects within the Alpine Loop area. 

These improvement projects differ from year to year. This past year, fees collected were invested in the following areas: 

Theater in the Pines Restoration

In the 1930s the Civilian Conservation Corp built Theater in the Pines amphitheater as a place to hold evening programs for the annual Timpanogos hike. The 

Forest Service started restoring the amphitheater in 2012, doing mostly masonry 

work. This year the bridges were replaced to the original specifications. Future 

plans for the amphitheater include improved electrical and new seating. 

Ridge and East Ridge Reroutes 

The reroutes on these two trails eliminated steep segments that were causing 

extensive erosion, making them impassible to most users. 

Cascade Springs

Loop C of Cascade Springs trail is in the process of being revamped and widened. Construction began fall of 2014. The project is scheduled to be completed 

with asphalt in the summer 2015. 

Maintenance and other uses - Fees were used to help maintain multiple facilities and trailheads, as well as produce this newspaper and other free publications. Our canyon partners put fees to good use in the following ways:

•	 Timpanogos Cave National Monument- free evening programs at the visitor center and interpretive programs at Cascade Springs

•	 Wasatch Mountain State Park- groomed snowmobile routes

•	 Utah County Sheriff Department- additional canyon patrols

•	 Search and Rescue/TERT-emergency services

•	 Utah Department of Transportation-road maintenance

•	 Utah Avalanche Center-avalanche education

Old CCC bridge and masonry

New bridge, with original CCC specifications

Older bridge, needing to be rebuilt 

Blasting project on the Ridge Trail #157 made the trail wider and increased safety

Improvement of Loop C at Cascade Springs

Know before you go

 General OHV Rules and Regulations Age Requirements

•	 Routes are closed to motorized use unless posted open on the ground or 

designated open on the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM).

•	 OHVs must have a clearly visible current registration sticker.

•	 All OHVs are required to have a muffler and a spark arrester.

•	 For more information about OHV Regulations go to http://dmv.utah.gov

•	 Keeping speeds low around crowds, in parking lots, and camping areas gives 

a good image for all OHV users. 

Motorcycles

Did you know? 

•	 Motorcycles geared for speed and racing are not ideal for single track use. 

Reducing speeds prevents trail damage, and the potential for conflict with 

other users. 

•	 To avoid trail damage remember all trails are closed when wet, drive over 

(not around) obstacles, avoid roosting on switchbacks and when climbing, 

and refrain from brake sliding when descending. 

•	 When you encounter equestrian users, stop and move to the downhill side, 

remove your helmet, and talk to the rider as they pass. 

•	 Motorcyclists yield to all other users. 

•	 Try Pine Hollow, Summit, or Elk Camp trailheads to access trails. 

ATV/UTV

Did you know?

•	 All of the routes open to ATV/UTVs in American Fork Canyon are roads that 

are also open to full size vehicles. For everyone’s safety keep your speeds low 

and stay in control.

•	 Riding off designated roads on OHVs to retrieve game is not allowed. 

•	 There is an ATV trailhead in Midway, near Soldier Hollow on Wasatch 

Mountain State Park that provides access to the same riding opportunities, 

but with far less parking congestion. 

•	 You can help maintain road conditions by not spinning circles on roads and 

in parking lots. Repairs are costly and damage is often irreversible. 

•	 All riders under 18 must wear a DOT approved helmet.

•	 No one under the age of 8 is allowed to operate an OHV. 

•	 Riders age 8-15 may operate with an Education Certificate issued by Utah 

State Parks and Recreation.

•	 Operators 16 years or older may use a valid drivers license or an Education 

Certificate issued by Utah State Parks and Recreation. 

Your Canyon Fees at Work 
4 2015

Timpanogos Reflections

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

! ! !

! ! ! !

! ! !

!

!

!

!

! ! !

! ! ! !

! !

! ! ! ! !

! ! !

!

!

! !

!

!

! ! ! ! ! !

! ! ! ! ! !

!

!

! ! !

! ! ! ! ! !

!

!

!

! ! ! ! ! ! !

!

! !

! ! ! 

! ! 

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

!

!

!

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! !

!

! !

! ! ! ! !

!

!

!

!

!

! ! ! ! ! !

!

!

!

! !

!

!

!

!

!

!

!C 

!C!5

!C

452

099

419

208

Dry

Creek 

Temple

Quarry

Trailhead

UTA Park

And Ride

East

Hamongog

Trailhead

187

186

04

200

186

176

American

Fork

Canyon

Alpine

Pleasant Grove

U t a h

L a k e

State St.

!@

American F

Canyon St

£¤92

Ü

0 1 2

Miles

Upper Bell

Reservoir

§ ̈¦15

Timpanogos Hwy.

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-Wasatch-Cache

National Forest, South Jordan, UT. This

map has no warranties to its contents or

its accuracy.

Roads

Freeway

State Hwy

Other State

USFS Paved

USFS Gravel

220 USFS Road Number

USFS Dirt

Recreation

Map

No Campfire Area

Land Management

Wilderness Area

State Park

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache

National Forest

Forest Service

Admin Boundary

Wildlife Management

Area

Timpanogos Cave

National Monument

Little Cotton

Canyon

Trails

Hike, horse, bicycle,

or as signed

Hike, horse,

bicycle, motorcycle,

or as signed

Hike, horse,

or as signed

186 Trail Number

Recreation Sites

!9 Campground

!< Dispersed Camping

!C Trailhead

!5 Picnic Site

!2 Lodging

!* Ski Resort

!@ Information

Camping

Developed Camp Sites Single 

Sites

Groups 

Sites

Potable 

Water?

Toilet 

Type

Little Mill 27 1 Yes Vault

Granite Flat 64 3 Yes Vault

Altamont 0 1 Yes Flushing

Timpooneke 30 1 Yes Vault

Mount Timpanogos 25 0 Yes Flushing

Theater in the Pines 0 1 Yes Vault

Hope 24 0 No Vault

Rock Canyon 0 4 No Vault

Picnicking

Picnic Sites Number of 

Sites

Group Sites Water

Saw Mill 5 0 No

Grey Cliffs 12 0 No

Echo 4 0 Yes

Road House 5 0 Yes

Martin 6 0 Yes

Warnick 1 1 Yes

Mile Rock 5 0 Yes

Theater in the Pine 2 0 Yes

Upper Falls 9 0 No

Fires

Before starting a fire, make sure to check the local fire restrictions. All fires must be 

kept in designated fire rings or rock rings where permitted. Fires should never be left 

unattended and must be properly extinguished upon departure. Make sure your fire 

is dead out, cold to the touch, before leaving it. Collecting live vegetation or standing 

dead wood is prohibted. Dead and down wood may only be collected from the ground for personal 

use while in the Forest. Taking any vegetation live or dead out of the Forest is prohibited. 

Fires are prohibited in the following areas: 

Tibble Fork Reservoir - Mount Timpanogos Wilderness - Silver Lake Basin

Shooting

Target shooting is allowed as long as the applicable regulations are followed. Please 

keep in mind that along the main corridors of American Fork Canyon it is very difficult to find locations that meet all of these regulations. This is due to the close proximity of campgrounds, picnic Areas, trailheads, trails, and the number of visitors. 

Regulations: 

The following is prohibited: 

•	 Shooting within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, trail, or 

occupied area. 

•	 Shooting across or on a road or body of water

•	 Shooting in any circumstance whereby any person may be injured or property damaged

•	 Shooting anything that will shatter, break apart, fragment, ignite, or explode, that may create a 

hazard or nuisance to any persons, property, public lands, wildlife, or livestock. (Such as Tannerite, televisions, computers, propane tanks, glass bottles, etc.) Title 36 CRF 261.50, 261.58 (m), 

261.53 (e)

Failing to dispose of all garbage, shells, and other material constitue a violation of law. If a wildland 

fire is started due to the discharge of firearms, an individual may be held accountable for the entire 

suppression cost of the fire. 

Gold Panning and Recreational Dredging

Gold panning is allowed on Forest Service land using non-mechanized equipment such as pan, 

sluice box, or pick and shovel that does not disturb the earth above the water line or outside a dry 

stream bed. No permit is required. Gold panning is not allowed within Timpanogos Cave National 

Monument boundaries. 

Dredging is not allowed in the main American Fork River; areas available for dredging are

Mary Ellen Gulch, Major Evans Gulch, Shaffer Fork, and Dry Fork.

Recreational dredging requires a permit; a new permit is required every year. Permits can be acquired from the Utah Division of Water Rights, www.waterrights.utah.gov. In addition to a valid 

permit, prior notification must be given to the land management agency before any work is performed. This includes both the USFS and BLM. Failure to do so is in violation of this permit. 

All developed campgrounds are maintained by American Land and Leisure. Trucks and trailers combined longer than 30 ft are NOT recommended. The maximum stay limit is 14 days. RV hookups and 

showers are NOT available. To reserve sites call 1-877-444-6777 or visit www. recreation.gov. 
5

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

! ! ! ! !

! !

!

!

!

!

!

!

! ! !

!

!

!

!

! !

!

!

!

!

!

! ! !

! ! !

!

!

!

!

! !

! !

!

! !

!

!

!

!

!

! !

!

! !

!

!

!

!

!

! !

!

!

!

! ! !

!

!

! ! ! ! ! ! 

!

!

!

!

!

! ! ! ! !

! ! !

! ! ! ! !

!

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! !

! !

!

! ! ! ! !

!

! !

! !

!

!

!

!

! ! !

!

!

! !

!

!

! !

! !

!

! ! ! !

!

! !

! !

! ! ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! ! !

! !

! !

! ! ! !

! ! !

! ! ! !

! !

! !

! !

! ! ! !

!

! !

!

!

!

!

!

!

! !

! !

!

!

! !

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

! !

!

! ! ! ! ! !

! !

! !

!

!

!

!

!

! ! !

!

!

!

!

! !

!C

!9!C !C

!<

!C

!C

!9

!C

!* !2 !C

!C !5

!9

!9

!C

!<

!<

!<

!C

!<

!C

!C

!< !C

!<

!5

!5

!C

!C

!C

!C !C !9 !9

!9

!5!5

!5 !9!5 !C

!5!5

!5

!5

!5

!C

!<

!9!C!9

!<

!9

!9

!C

!C

056

044

157

157

039

252

003

002

004 Tank

Canyon

Lower

Mill

085

Dispersed

Schaffer

Fork

Pullout

Mary Ellen

Gulch Road

Snake

Creek

WMSP

Cummings

Parkway

- 085

Timpooneke

Upper

Falls

Upper Falls

!@ 114

413

716

056

586

193

178

590

111

409

007 198

229

410

195

222

595

006

420

197

251

422

114

182

210

717

592

589

721

421

321

5

085

94

196

439

039

317

220

230

434

593

212

221

358

212

287

711

320

197

112

73

435

194

233

180

475

239

085

Tibble

Fork

Granite

Flat

Granite

Flat Horse

Box

Elder

Holman

Flat

Holman Flat

Trailhead

Silver

Lake

Tanners

Flat

White Pine

Trailhead

Alta Ski

Resort

Snowbird

Ski Area

Alta City

Picnic Area

Deer Creek

State Park

Albion

Basin

Pittsburg

Lake

Dutchman

Flat

Mineral

Basin

Forest

Lake

Alta Dry

Fork

Mill

Canyon

Great

Western

North

Pole

Line

Pass

Cascade

Scenic

Drive Upper

Cascade

Springs

South

Cascade

Springs

Cascade

Springs

Canyon

Glen

Nunns

Dry

Canyon

Battle

Creek

Grove

Creek

Alpine

Timpooneke Summit

Trail

Timpooneke

Altamont

Salamander

Flat

Timpanogos

Cave NM

Timpanogos

Cave

Saw Mill

Little

Mill

Grey

Cliffs

Pine

Hollow Echo

Roadhouse

Martin

Warnick

Mile

Rock

Bridal Veil Falls

Little

South

Fork

Mount

Timpanogos

Theater-inthe-Pines

Cascade

Scenic

Drive

Vivian

Park

South Fork Park

Big

Springs

Shingle Mill Hollow

056

049

150

148C

042

031

059

033

036

188

043

053

044

151

035

165

055

051

012

180

016

165

211

043

052

049

045

175

238

160

032

500

171

238

159

005

189

172

179

037

047

250

76

181

051

054

050

173

046

041

252

040

048

038

039

157

South Fork Provo

Orem

Lindon

Lone Peak

Wilderness

Mt. Timpanogos

Wilderness

D e

e

r

C r e

e

k

R e

s e

r v o i r

Twin Peaks

Wilderness

!@

800 N.

To Midway

£¤92

£¤189

£¤189

£¤210

Pleasant Grove

Ranger Station

Fork

tation

!@Aspen Grove Station

!* Sundance Ski Resort

£¤92

ls Canyon

Red Pine

Lake

White Pine

Lake

Silver Lake

£¤89

Timpanogos

Peak

11,750'

Big Provo

Cirque

Soldier

Hollow

Wasatch

Mountain

State Park

Lake

Hardy

Box Elder

Peak

11,100'

Stewart

Falls

Big Baldy

8,756'

Roberts

Horn

10,993' Aspen Grove Camp

and Conference Center

wood

n

Mahogany Mtn.

9,001'

Salt Lake

Ranger District

Pleasant Grove

Ranger District

!5

!C
6 2015

Timpanogos Reflections

For Motor Vehicle Use Maps and 

a variety of other forest maps 

For Pleasant Grove Ranger 

District Trail Descriptions 

Hiking

Did you know?

•	 If you are planning to hike Mount Timpanogos, you can avoid 

trail and parking congestion by planning your hike SundayFriday and by avoiding holidays. 

•	 Walking around wet or muddy areas creates unwanted parallel 

trails. Stick to the main trail to avoid damaging the surrounding 

vegetations. 

•	 Shortcutting switchbacks leads to extensive erosion, trail damage, and injuries, and rarely saves time.

•	 When encountering equestrian users, you should stop and 

move to the downhill side, and talk to the rider as they pass. 

Wilderness

Did you know?

•	 There are two Congressionally-designated Wilderness 

areas here, Lone Peak and Mount Timpanogos.

•	 They are managed to preserve the land in its most 

natural and primitive state.

•	 Trails in these Wilderness areas are open to hikers and 

equestrian users, with the exception of the Mount 

Timpanogos trail 052, which is pedestrian traffic only.

•	 These trails can be extremely rough and many of them 

are not regularly maintained. Be sure to carry a map, 

and be willing to turn around if the trail becomes too 

challenging. 

•	 You can help protect these areas by not shortcutting 

switchbacks, staying below the group size limit of 15, 

following the fire restrictions, and packing out what 

you pack in. 

•	 Mount Timpanogos is renowned for its amazing wildflowers and picking them is illegal. Please leave them 

so they can be the seeds for next year’s flowers. 

•	 For more information visit: www.wilderness.net

Mountain Biking 

Did you know?

•	 Locking your brakes and skidding when descending a trail gouges the trail. 

Slow down to reduce trail damage.

•	 Many of the local mountain bikers mount a bell on their bike to help alert 

others of their presence.

•	 Riding in control and managing your speed at all times will reduce the 

potential for trail conflicts. 

•	 When encountering equestrian users, you should stop and move to the 

downhill side, remove your helmet, and talk to the rider as they pass. 

•	 Building new trails or trail structures are prohibited. 

 Be prepared

 Every time you hit the trail, begin with proper planning:

•	 Learn more about the trails before heading to the canyon.

•	 Respect others and share routes with all users.

•	 Obtain and carry a map. Know where you are permitted to ride 

and stay on designated routes. 

•	 Avoid times of high use. (Tibble Fork, Timpooneke, and Mount 

Timpanogos trailheads are congested most of the season, especially on Saturdays and holidays. Parking will be limited.)

•	 Know the regulations. 

•	 Know your group’s skill and ability level.

•	 Know your limitations. Watch your time, fuel, and energy.

•	 Be prepared with appropriate gear, safety items, clothing, water, 

food, and supplies. 

•	 Check local weather; be prepared for unforeseen weather conditions. 

•	 Dogs are allowed on trails (except the Timpanogos Cave Trail). 

Keep them on a leash, and clean up after them.

•	 Let someone know of your plans and expected time of return. 

All of the trails in 

this area are heavily utilized. Be a courteous 

trail user by yielding the right of way to 

others and by showing respect to everyone 

you meet on the trail.

Equestrian Users

Did you know?

•	 Weed free hay is required to reduce the spread of noxious weeds.

•	 The Horse Loop of Timpooneke Campground has equestrian amenities 

including corals and watering troughs.

•	 Many trail users are unaware of what to do around a horse. Help others 

to know what to do, and how to pass to keep everyone safe.

•	 It is your responsibility to clean up after your animal at trailheads by removing manure or by scattering it off the parking area. 

This trail is definitely too wet 

to ride. 

Family Friendly Hikes

Trail One-Way 

Mileage Destination/Attraction

Cascade 

Springs 1 mile Easy, paved/boardwalk loop trail system around a natural spring

Timpanogos 

Cave Canyon 

Nature Trail

1/4 mile Easy, paved interpretive trail

Timpanogos 

Cave Trail 1.5 miles Strenuous, paved trail to caves

Stewart Falls 2.5 miles Moderately strenuous natural surface trail to a waterfall

Every spring certain trails in American Fork 

Canyon are only open to hikers until they 

dry out. Watch for the bright green signs 

located at the beginning of the trails. 

Riding wet trails causes short and long term 

damage. This damage is costly to repair, and 

in some cases may change the trail permanently. 

Please respect the wet trail closure while it 

is in effect. Even after the wet trail closure is 

lifted, please remember to wait a day or two 

after rainstorms to allow trails to dry.

Wet Trail Closure
7

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

How do I get cave tour tickets for Timpanogos Cave National Monument? 

You can purchase your cave tour tickets 30 days to 48 hours in advance by 

purchasing them online at www.recreation.gov or by calling Recreation.gov at 

1-877-444-6777. You may also purchase tickets in person at the Timpanogos 

Cave National Monument Visitor Center.

Didn’t get your tickets in advance? Each day’s remaining tickets become available when the Visitor Center opens. Check our Twitter feed or call the visitor 

center information desk at 801-756-5238 for the latest updates, or information on emergency closures. Rangers are happy to review availability with you.

Purchasing Cave Tour Tickets

 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!

 White-nose Syndrome 

 Screening Procedures

Welcome Friends! Whether this is your first visit or you remember 

visits from your childhood, Timpanogos Cave is a place for everyone. Please join us in making a difference to ensure opportunities 

and memories continue to grow. Friends of Timpanogos Cave is a 

non-profit organization helping Timpanogos Cave through volunteering, donations, or membership. However you choose to help, please join today! Visit us 

at www.friendsoftimpanogoscave.org for more information.

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

Visiting Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Tickets are sold in advance online 

at www.recreation.gov or by calling 

1(877)-444-6777. Tickets can be purchased up to 30 days in advance.

Ages 16 & older. . . . . . . . . . $8.00

Ages 6 to 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . $6.00

Ages 3 to 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4.00

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

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

Introduction to Caving Tour. $16.00

 Cave Tour Pricing

Things to know For more information, go to www.nps.gov/tica.

To reach the Timpanogos Cave system, located at 6,730 ft above sea level, visitors must hike the 

steep 1.5 miles (2.4 km) cave trail. The hike is strenuous. Anyone with heart trouble or breathing 

problems should not attempt the hike. Those under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an 

adult. 

Visitors cannot enter the caves without a ticket. Purchasing your cave tour tickets in advance 

assures you a spot on a tour. Cave tours regularly sell out, especially in the summer months. 

Food, snacks, beverages, clothing, souvenirs, as well as a shaded eating area are located next to 

the visitor center. For snack bar information call (801) 756-5702.

The cave trail can be used for regular hiking, even if you don’t intend 

to take a cave tour. Our MovingYour Way to Fitness and Fun program 

tracks your miles hiked on the cave trail over the season. Like us on 

Facebook (MovingYourWayToFitnessandFun)or ask at our visitor 

center for more information.

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 leads you there; parking is also available on-site. Cooking grills, 

drinking water, and fire rings are available at the site. A smaller picnic 

area is located across from the visitor center. 

 Ranger Programs

•	 Cave Tours: Guided cave tours are offered mid-May through 

mid-October, conditions permitting. Tours are limited to 16 

people per tour. Plan on three to four hours for your hike and 

cave tour. Pets and wheeled vehicles (including baby strollers) 

are NOT permitted on the trail. Bring plenty of water, as no 

water is available on the trail or at the cave. 

•	 Introduction to Caving Tour: This off-trail tour visits Hansen 

Cave Lake, and requires bending and crawling. Group size limited to five or less, age 14 and above. 

•	 Grotto Talks: Free short talks on a variety of topics given by 

rangers outside the cave, offered at 12:00, 12:45, 1:15, and 3:30. 

•	 Deck Talks and Scout Programs: Programs offered daily at 

4p.m. next to visitor center. On Wednesday the program will be 

aimed at Cub Scout requirements, and on Friday an hour long 

program will teach Boy Scout merit badge requirements. Both 

these programs are also open to the general public.

•	 Junior Ranger Programs:

Free programs for kids 

of all ages, every Saturday 

and holiday at 10am at the 

visitor center.

•	 Evening Programs: Free 

programs are offered Memorial Day - Labor Day, 

every Friday and Saturday 

evening at 7pm. Rangers 

will present topics about a 

variety of subjects. 

•	 Cascade Springs Guided Walk: Meet your ranger at Cascade 

Springs through this U.S. Forest Service area, Wednesdays and 

Saturdays 11a.m., offered through our Interagency partnership.

•	 Hike with a Ranger: Hike up the cave trail with a ranger, stopping to learn as you go. Meet at the visitor center deck 11a.m. 

Sunday. Free to the public, with or without cave tickets. 

Deck talk by visitor center

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.

Help protect bats from this deadly fungus. All visitors taking a cave tour will 

be asked, “Are you wearing or carrying articles that have been in ANY cave 

or mine at ANY time?” Items such as 

footwear, clothing, cameras, and other 

gear that have been inside other caves 

or mines are prohibited from entering 

the Timpanogos Cave System. 
8 2015

Timpanogos Reflections

Crossword Answers:

Across 2. Silver 3. Pines 5. Civilian 6. CCC 8. 

ranger 9. Lone Down: 1. picnic 4. camping 6. 

Cave 7. trail

Canyon Kids Become a Junior Ranger

Funny Bone

Q: What did Big Flower say to Small Flower? A: “What’s up, bud?”

Q: What did Beaver say to the tree? A:“Its been nice gnawing you!”

Q: Why did the pine tree get into trouble? A: It was knotty.

American Fork Canyon Word Search

Remember... Only YOU can prevent wildfires!

Help Smokey by putting out the campfire. American Fork Canyon crossword

American Fork Canyon crossword clues

Across

2. ____ Lake Dam was built in 1971.

3. You can picnic at Theater in the _____.

5. The ________Conservation Corp built projects in the 1930s. 

6. Nickname for the Civilian Conservation Corp. 

8. Kids can become a Junior ______ at Timpanogos Cave.

9. _____ Peak Wilderness is north of American Fork Canyon.

Down

1. Take a lunch outside to a ______table.

4. Sleeping outside in a tent is called ________.

6. Go underground at Timpanogos _______ National Monument. 

7. Hike or ride on one of these

Timpanogos Cave

Earn your choice of a badge or 

patch. Stop by the Timpanogos 

Cave National Monument Visitor 

Center and pick up your free Junior Ranger booklet. Every Saturday and holidays 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.

Wasatch Mountain State Park 

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 about Junior Ranger 

programs. 

Try to fill in the missing numbers, using numbers 

1 through 9 to complete the equations. Each 

number is only used once. Each column is a math 

equation. Remember multiplication and division 

are performed before addition and subtraction.

Sudoku - Fill in the blanks so that each row, each 

column, and each of the 3x3 grids contain one 

each of the numbers 1 through 9. 

Find the words from this list:

AMERICAN, FORK, ASPEN, BEAUTIFUL, BIKE, CAMPGROUND, CANYON, CAVE, 

CHIPMUNK, DEER, FAMILY, FUN, FISHING, HIKE, HORSE, MAP, MOUNTAIN, NATURE, PICNIC, RANGER, RIVER, SCENERY, SQUIRREL, TIMPANOGOS, WELCOME