UserFee

Wherever you see these symbols, 

you’ll know your entrance fees are 

hard at work helping to fund those 

projects. Thank you for helping to 

make a difference in your parks 

and forests.

He would never forget it.

So began the fi rst of many hikes to the top of Mount 

Timpanogos for young Alfred Pace III. On succeeding 

adventures very often his four brothers and six sisters, 

mom, uncles, and cousins came along, too. Even the family 

dog made it to the top.

It was a Pace family tradition to 

climb together to the summit 

of Mt. Timpanogos.

Alfred recalls, “The fi rst 

time I almost got killed. As 

dad and I reached the ‘saddle’ 

near the top, it was icy, and I 

slipped. Then dad, holding my 

hand slid too and we were near 

the cliff ledge! Luckily, 

dad’s shoe caught 

onto a rock and 

stopped our 

slide.”

Now 

retired, 

Alfred has 

reached the top 

of the mountain 

23 times. During 

22 of those of those 

adventures he achieved the feat 

as part of the famous and historic 

Timpanogos Hike.

Begun in 1912, Brigham Young 

University coach E.L. Roberts 

organized the “Timpanogos Hike” as the 

culminating event of activities for his summer school 

students. For that fi rst year, the 22 students spent the entire 

day making the journey from central Provo to Wildwood, 

in Provo Canyon, and then onto the steep grade of North 

Fork to Stewart’s Flat (present-day Sundance). The 

hike began on the following day and as Roberts later 

remembered, “took nearly 8 hours to reach the summit 

since there were no real trails up the mountain side, and 

much of the distance led through dense underbrush. The 

party fi nally fi nished the hike and reached 

camp after dark, weary 

but delighted at what 

they had seen and 

experienced.”

The following 

year, in 1913, Roberts 

added a pre-hike 

program for the 

eve of the hike. It 

became so popular 

that Theater-inthe-Pines was 

constructed just 

for the purpose 

of this grand 

event that often 

included 

bonfi res, 

theater, 

fi reworks, 

awards and singing.

The issuing of badges to all 

those who made it to the summit was begun 

in 1930 and Alfred was proud to have earned 

his fi rst badge in 1945. He collected more as 

the years went on following the footsteps of his 

father, Alfred Pace II. His father participated in 

every summit hike between 1930 and 1970 and 

he is believed to be the only person who has a 

complete collection of these now rare badges.

The hiking and camping tradition established by 

Alfred II and Phyllis Pace for their family made a lasting 

Timpanogos

Reflections

Visitor Guide - Summer 2004 U.S. Department of the Interior

National Park Service

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Journey to the Mount 

Traditions on the Mount Timpanogos Trail

I

n July 1945, a father took his eight-year-old son on a hike. But as they were hiking up the 

mountainside, the boy realized that this hike was diff erent than their previous outings. 

For the fi rst time he was going to reach the lofty summit of Mt. Timpanogos and sign his 

name in the book at the glass summit hut!

INSIDE:

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

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

Leave No Trace . . . . . . . . . . 3

Fire Safety in American

Fork Canyon . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

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

Volunteer Opportunities . . 5

Fun and Learning at the 

Monument Bookstore . . . . 5

Ranger Programs . . . . . . . . 7

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

Find Your Way Around 

American Fork Canyon . . . 8

Emergency: 911

Sheriff: (801) 375-3601

Continued on page 3

U.S. Department of Agriculture

U.S. Forest Service

Uinta National Forest

Nature Calendar 6

WELCOME TO YOUR 

“NEW” CANYON!

The 2003-2004 seasons have meant the 

realization of several key improvements 

in American Fork Canyon.

From modernized rest rooms and 

equestrian facilities at campsites, to new 

handrails and an entrance shelter at Timpanogos Cave, there’s 

a great deal of progress being 

made. Appreciate the comfort of 

our new wheelchair accessible 

picnic tables. Enjoy a stimulating 

evening program with the family. It’s all here for you! Did we 

mention the newspaper you’re 

holding right now? It’s a brand 

new addition for 2004. Many of 

these enhancements have been 

paid for with use fees collected 

at the entrance stations and 

cave as part of the fee demonstration program.

We hope you’ll enjoy these wonderful 

new “creature comforts,” and especially 

all the beauty American Fork Canyon has 

to offer. So, whether you’re staying for 3 

hours, 3 days, or 3 weeks, we trust you’ll 

like all the improvements for 2004.

We think it’s progress you will truly 

enjoy!

�������� ��

����� �������

����� ���������

mom, uncles, and cousins came along, too. Even the family

It was a Pace family tradition to

slipped. Then dad, holding my

hand slid too and we were near

party finally finished the hike and reached

camp after dark, weary

but delighted at what

they had seen and

experienced.”

The following

year, in 1913, Roberts

added a pre-hike

program for the

eve of the hike. It

became so popular

that Theater-inthe-Pines was

constructed just

for the purpose

of this grand

event that often

included

bonfires,

theater,

fireworks,

awards and singing.

The issuing of badges to all

adventures he achieved the feat those who made it to the summit was begun

the cliff ledge! Luckily,

dad’s shoe caught

onto a rock and

reached the top

of the mountain

23 times. During

those who made it to the summit was begun

in 1930 and Alfred was proud to have earned

his first badge in 1945. He collected more as

the years went on following the footsteps of his

father, Alfred Pace II. His father participated in

those who made it to the summit was begun

Things to Do 3 Go Underground 5
2 SUMMER 2004

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

Forest or

Monument?

What’s the diff erence 

between the Uinta National 

Forest and Timpanogos 

Cave National Monument? There are signs 

for both of them in 

American Fork Canyon. Both are federal 

lands. Each exists to 

benefi t society. So what makes them 

diff erent?

Each has a diff erent history and diff erent purpose. Together they provide a wide spectrum of uses. 

National parks and monuments strive to keep landscapes unimpaired for future generations. 

They protect natural and historic features while off ering light-on-the-land 

recreation. Park Rangers work for 

the National Park Service, an bureau 

of the Department of the Interior.

National forests, managed under a 

“multiple use” concept, provide services and commodities that may include 

lumber, cattle grazing, minerals, and recreation with or without vehicles. Forest Rangers work 

for the Forest Service, an bureau within the Department of Agriculture.

Both bureau’s manage wilderness and other areas 

where they strive for maximum protection of natural 

resources. For example the Lone Peak and 

Mount Timpanogos Wilderness Areas 

are part of the Uinta National Forest.

Forests and monuments may have 

diff erent rules in order to meet their 

goals. Stop at the Timpanogos Cave 

Visitor Center or the Pleasant Grove 

Ranger District to check what activities 

are permitted where. Despite some misunderstanding over names, we are lucky to enjoy the 

wide range of benefi ts these diverse areas can off er.

Timpanogos Refl ections is published twice 

yearly by the National Park Service, Timpanogos Cave National Monument, and Forest 

Service, Uinta National Forest, to enhance 

visitor experience.

Editor-in-Chief:

Norman E. Young, NPS Volunteer

Supervising Editor:

Michael Gosse, NPS Chief Ranger

Editorial Assistants:

Camille Price, NPS Ranger

Anita Pulham, NPS Ranger

Royce Shelly, NPS Ranger

Jay Allen, NPS Ranger 

Anjana Khatwa, NPS Volunteer

Layout & Design:

Norman E. Young, NPS Volunteer

Brandon K. Kowallis, NPS Ranger

Writers:

Michael Gosse, NPS Chief Ranger

Camille Price, NPS Ranger

Anita Pulham, NPS Ranger

Debbie Stringham, NPS Ranger

Norman E. Young, NPS Volunteer

Dave Palazzolo, Forest Service

Feature Story:

Anita Pulham, NPS Ranger

Photographers:

Ken Kyburz, NPS Ranger

Brandon Kowalis, 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.

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

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.

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

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:

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 to American Fork 

Canyon $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. 

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.

They protect natural and historic fea-

“multiple use” concept, provide services and commodities that may include 
3

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Make the Most of Your Canyon Visit

Journey (cont.)

Protect American Fork 

Canyon: Leave No Trace

The Leave No Trace concept is 

simple—it’s a set of 7 principles 

that can be applied to any 

natural setting to minimize 

human impact on the 

environment.

Whether you’re hiking, 

camping, or out for an 

afternoon drive on the Alpine Loop, 

following the Leave No Trace principles will help 

protect American Fork Canyon and preserve the 

experience for you and other visitors.

To learn more about Leave No Trace, visit their web 

site at www.lnt.org.

The Principles of LEAVE NO TRACE:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly.

4. Leave What You Find.

5. Minimize Campfi re Impacts.

6. Respect Wildlife.

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors.

impression on their son. The shared family 

experience drew them closer together. 

What outdoor family traditions have you 

established? Do you annually 

go camping, hiking, 

fi shing, or picnicking in 

a favorite spot. Many 

visitors annually hike to 

the Timpanogos Cave 

System as a family. 

Mount Timpanogos 

and the Alpine Loop area 

hold many opportunities 

for family events and traditions. 

Consider creating memories here on the 

slopes of Mount Timpanogos that will last 

a lifetime.

Why Did It End?

From its early beginning, 

the annual hike grew to be 

one of the most prominent 

community mountain 

climbs in America. Over 

700 hikers made it to the 

top along with young 

eight year old Alfred in 

1945 and an estimated 3,500 

people reached the summit 

in a single day in 1970, the fi nal 

year that the offi cial hike was held. 

The pressures of so many hikers 

on the fragile alpine ecosystem 

resulted in extensive environmental 

impacts, and many people feared 

the mountain would not recover. 

in a single day in 1970, the final

year that the official hike was held.

The pressures of so many hikers

on the fragile alpine ecosystem

resulted in extensive environmental

impacts, and many people feared

the mountain would not recover.

Why Did It End?

From its early beginning,

the annual hike grew to be

one of the most prominent

community mountain

climbs in America. Over

700 hikers made it to the

top along with young

eight year old Alfred in

1945 and an estimated 3,500

people reached the summit

in a single day in 1970, the final

What outdoor family traditions have you

established? Do you annually

and the Alpine Loop area

hold many opportunities

for family events and traditions.

Short on time? Wondering how to make the most of 

your time in American Fork Canyon? Take a look at 

these suggestions to help plan your visit. Use the map 

on page 8 to help. The distance from the American 

Fork entrance station to the Aspen Grove entrance 

station is 26 miles; approximate driving time with no 

stops is 45 minutes. Please follow the posted speed 

limits, watch for wildlife on the roads, and be prepared to slow down in pedestrian areas.

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 the 

North Fork, Route 

114 to Tibble Fork 

Reservoir.

A Half Day

Drive the Loop. 

The 26-mile Alpine 

Loop off ers terrifi c 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 manmade 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 multitudes of 

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 is 

home to 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.

Tell Tall Fish Tales. Hundreds of hatchery reared 

rainbow trout are stocked 

yearly in the American Fork 

River, Tibble Fork Reservoir, and Silver Lake Flat 

Reservoir. Also, Pittsburg 

and Silver Lakes off er an 

alpine setting with limited 

trout fi shing.

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.

Fortunately, Mount Timpanogos did recover, and in 

1984, to ensure against such future environmental 

impacts, Congress created the Mount Timpanogos 

Wilderness Area. This designation provides special 

protections that prohibits campfi res, groups larger 

than 15 people, bicycles, and short-cutting on the 

trails. Hopefully, this will allow future generations 

to create their own family traditions on the Mount.

Did You Know?

Mount Timpanogos has, for most of these last two 

centuries, been the most popular mountain climbing 

destination in Utah. The majestic mountain, second 

highest in the Wasatch Mountains, has spectacular 

scenery, an alpine lake just below the summit, a small 

glacier, waterfalls along the trail, high alpine meadows 

and wildfl owers, even a herd of about 200 mountain 

goats that were introduced in 1981.

The National Wilderness Preservation System is 

celebrating its 40th birthday. With the signing of the 

Wilderness Act by President Lyndon B. Johnson on 

September 3, 1964, the National Wilderness Preservation System was established to “...secure for the 

American people of present and future generations the 

benefi ts of an enduring resource of wilderness.” The 

system that started with 9 million acres has grown to 

more than 104 million acres. 

What is Wilderness

Wilderness is a place where the imprint of humans is 

substantially unnoticed. It is where natural processes 

are the primary infl uences and human activity is limited 

to primitive recreation and minimum tools. This allows us to experience wild places without intention to 

disturb or destroy natural processes. Change will occur 

primarily through natural disturbance, and minimum 

human infl uence.

Wilderness in American Fork Canyon

The American Fork—Alpine Loop area off ers you two 

wilderness areas – Lone Peak and Mount Timpanogos. From the American Fork entrance, the Lone Peak 

Wilderness is to the north or left of the road. Lone 

Peak was established in 1978 as the fi rst wilderness area 

in Utah. It contains over 31,000 acres of very rugged 

terrain, narrow canyons, and high peaks. Your fi rst 

good look of the 10,500-acre Mountain Timpanogos 

Keep The Wild in Wilderness

Wilderness Area is looking south from the Pine Hollow 

Trailhead. The Mount Timpanogos Wilderness also offers abundant rugged terrain embellished with waterfalls and summer wildfl owers. 

Help Keep it Wild

As the Wilderness Act states, wilderness is a place 

“...where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.” 

Because Lone Peak and Mount Timpanogos are close 

to large population centers, they experience high visitor 

use. That is why it is even more important that each 

visitor tread lightly to preserve the wild nature of wilderness for those who follow. 

Hiking in the Timpanogos Wilderness 

(Photo by Jon Jasper)

Forest Service Photo

Forest Service Photo

Forest Service Photo
4 SUMMER 2004

Timpanogos Refl ections

Visitor Services - Summer 2004

Know Your Fire Safety

Although fi re is an important 

process in the ecosystem, it can be 

a destructive force. Each year the 

build up of fuels, extreme weather 

conditions, and human causes result 

in destructive wildfi res. Preventing 

unwanted fi res is everyone’s 

responsibility.

The Uinta National Forest 

and Timpanogos Cave National 

Monument would like your help in 

preventing undesirable fi res. Keep 

your fi re small and manageable. Do 

not build bonfi res that throw sparks 

and embers. Any fi re that is a threat to 

people, property, or the environment 

will be suppressed. Unplanned fi res 

may damage sensitive habitat and 

negatively impact visitor experiences. 

You can help us prevent unwanted 

fi res by keeping American Fork 

Canyon, “fi re safe.”

All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) use is 

one of the fastest growing recreational activities in the forest. The State 

of Utah estimates that the number 

of registered ATVs will increase 

from over 56,000 vehicles in 2003 

to over 100,000 vehicles in the next 

three years. Because the majority of 

registered ATVs are along the Wasatch Front, an enormous amount of 

impact is put on our natural resources 

in American Fork Canyon and other 

nearby canyons where ATV users 

ride. 

Responsible riders know that one 

way to protect their 

riding privilege is to 

stay on the designated 

trails. They know 

that these routes have 

been developed to 

protect the valuable 

natural resources as 

well as provide them 

with some great riding 

adventures.

If ATV riders stay 

on designated trails, 

damage to streams, rivers, plants and 

trees is minimal. 

Discover the rewards of responsible recreation

q ATV riding provides the opportunity 

to get away from it all and builds family traditions.

q Remember riding on public lands is a 

privilege.

q Respect the environment and other 

trail users. By using common sense 

and common courtesy, what is 

available today will be here to enjoy 

tomorrow.

Fire Safety in American 

Fork Canyon

Use an established fi re ring and keep 

water and a shovel nearby to extinguish campfi res. 

Keep all burning materials well inside 

the fi re ring. Keep all unused fi rewood well away from the fi re.

Never leave a fi re unattended and be 

sure that all fi res are dead out before 

leaving.

Never throw a cigarette butt from 

any vehicle. Don’t risk it, and besides 

– it’s litter!

Use caution when operating portable 

cooking devices like camp stoves.

Be sure children know how dangerous fi re can be. Tell them not to play 

with matches or lighters.

Contact a ranger if you see any 

suspicious or unsafe fi re practices. It 

is up to each of us to keep American 

Fork Canyon fi re safe. Report any 

smoke you might see.

Location Season Elevation

CAMPGROUNDS

Altamont Alpine Loop May 19 - 2003 7,200 ft (2,195 m)

Granite Flat North Fork Road May 19 - Sep 23 6,800 ft (2,073 m)

Holman Flat North Fork Road May 19 - Sep 23 6,800 ft (2,073 m)

Little Mill Alpine Loop May 4 - Oct 31 6,000 ft (1,829 m)

Mount Timpanogos Alpine Loop May 19 - Sep 23 6,800 ft (2,073 m)

North Mill Alpine Loop May 4 - Oct 31 6,000 ft (1,829 m)

Salamander Flat Alpine Loop May 19 - Sep 23 7,400 ft (2,256 m)

Theatre-in-the-Pines Alpine Loop May 19 - Sep 23 6,800 ft (2,073 m)

Timpooneke Alpine Loop May 19 - Sep 23 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 15 - Oct 31 6,000 ft (1,829 m)

Grey Cliffs Alpine Loop May 15 - Oct 31 6,000 ft (1,829 m)

Martin North Fork Road May 15 - Oct 31 6,200 ft (1,890 m)

Mile Rock North Fork Road May 15 - Oct 31 6,400 ft (1,951 m)

Road House North Fork Road May 15 - Oct 31 6,200 ft (1,890 m)

Swinging Bridge Timpanogos Cave NM May 15 - Oct 31 5,600 ft (1,707 m)

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

Location Season Elevation

VISITOR CENTER

Timpanogos Cave NM Timpanogos Cave NM May 15 - Oct 31 5,638 ft (1,951 m)

Fishing

Visitor Information

Telephone

Interpretive Program

Snack Bar

Our responsibility to the Nation is to be more than careful stewards 

of the land, we must be constant catalysts for positive change.” 

- Gifford Pinchot

Please Tread Lightly

ATVs exploring designated trails. (Forest ServicePhoto)
5

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

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 self-guided 

1/4 mile Canyon Nature Trail will lead you 

there. Cooking grills, drinking water, and 

fi re 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, fi lm, 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 off ered at Timpanogos Cave National 

Monument, please call the Visitor Center at 

(801) 756-5238.

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 certifi -

cate and badge at the 

Visitor Center.

Impromptu patio 

talks are often given 

on Saturdays and 

holidays at the Visitor 

Center. These rangerpresented 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 7:00 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 

campfi re singing. (See Page 7 of this guide 

for details.)

Visitor Center Hours

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

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, magnifi cent 

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 mid-May through September, 

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 fl ashlights 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 fl owstone are 

among other formations that adorn the 

rooms and winding 

passages.

The Cave Trail

To reach the Timpanogos Cave System, 

visitors must hike the 

1.5 mile (2.4 km) hardsurfaced 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 -

Lend a Helping Hand

Would you like to get to know 

your forest and park better? Consider 

becoming a Volunteer In Parks (VIP)! 

Your skills and enthusiasm are needed 

in a variety of areas from greeting visitors, maintaining facilities and trails, to 

monitoring resources. VIPs can work 

part time or full time, year round, or 

for a few weeks. 

Timpanogos Cave National 

Monument has two special volunteer 

programs for youth and seniors. The 

Behind A Tour Specialist (BATS) program is for youth 16 years of age and 

older and the Volunteer Senior Ranger 

Program is for adults. Please stop at the 

Visitor Center for more information on 

these two special programs and other 

volunteer opportunities.

Contact the volunteer coordinator 

at Timpanogos Cave National Monument at (801) 756-5239 to fi nd out 

about VIPs, BATS, and More. 

To fi nd out about volunteer opportunities on the Uinta National Forest, 

visit the Uinta’s volunteering website at 

www.fs.fed.us/r4/uinta/volunteering. 

We’d love to have you join us.

Monument Bookstore

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

Western National Parks Association Bookstore in the 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!

Please contact the Visitor Center for hours of operation at (801) 756-5238.

Visiting Timpanogos Cave

National Monument

Ranger and friends (NPS Photo)

Family fun at Swinging Bridge picnic area 

(NPS Photo)

The Great Heart of Timpanogos (NPS Photo)

Anthodite crystals (NPS Photo)

Cave Tour Pricing

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 $6.00

Ages 6 to 15 $5.00

Ages 3 to 5 $3.00

Ages 2 & under FREE

Golden Age/Access Pass $3.00

Introduction to Caving Tour $15.00

The Western National Parks Association is a nonprofi t 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.

A volunteer helping visitors (NPS Photo)

Timpanogos Cave National 

Monument welcomes all school 

groups to experience Nature’s 

classroom. Discover geology 

thousands of years old, ancient 

sea life, and a series of caves deep 

underground. Cave tour fees may 

be waived for schools or other 

bona fi de educational institutions. 

For more information and the 

application for educational waivers 

check out our website fi lled with 

helpful tips for planning your visit 

at www.nps.gov/tica or call the 

Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center at 

(801) 756-5238.

Teacher’s Corner
6 SUMMER 2004

Timpanogos Refl ections

Naturalist’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 in 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.

J

une — It’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!

J

uly — 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 ?

S

eptember — 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 Douglasfi 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. Black bears

are putting on a pound of weight each week. 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.

S

ily in the 

in the 

vultures
7

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

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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).

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.

Minerals! An Essential Part of 

Your Rock Diet

Visitor Center

Young and not so young mineral enthusiasts are invited to learn geology 

through the tests a geologist uses to 

identify minerals.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ranger Programs Ranger Programs
8 SUMMER 2004

Timpanogos Reflections

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American Fork