These rumors reached a young college student by the 

name of Vearl Manwill. Manwill was passionate about 

the outdoors and had spent many summers of his childhood exploring American Fork Canyon. One summer 

day, Manwill and a group of friends 

participated in the annual Mount 

Timpanogos hike to the summit. 

Following a day of hiking, the group 

of friends agreed to meet a few 

weeks later and return to the mountains but this time, to search for the 

illusive cave that had originally been 

found several years earlier but was 

quickly lost to public knowledge.

On August 14, 1921, Vearl Manwill led his friends to Hansen Cave 

high on the south wall of American 

Fork Canyon. The group entered 

Hansen Cave and were disappointed when they found 

that many of the 

fragile formations 

had been damaged 

in the past years. 

This renewed their 

determination for not 

only discovering but 

protecting the mysterious cave reported in the 

newspapers. 

To improve their chances of finding the cave, the 

group split up to comb the mountainside. Manwill set off 

over the steep ledges of the mountain. After climbing for 

some time, he stopped to rest on a rocky slope east of Hansen Cave. As he was catching his breath, he noticed several 

rocks stacked and hidden beneath the brush nearby. After 

he gave the artificial wall a small kick, the rocks gave way 

and fell into the mountain, revealing a small opening. 

Manwill excitedly called to his friends and they all 

soon gathered at the opening of the cave. The entrance 

was a small hole that descended 

several feet into the mountain. 

Carefully, each member of the 

group slid through the opening 

and into the darkness. The group 

traveled slowly and cautiously 

through the passages of the cave 

using candles and lanterns and often had to crawl on their bellies to 

proceed through the tight spaces. 

What they found was a splendid 

wonderland of delicate stalactites, 

stalagmites and helictites. 

That evening, the group 

gathered around the campfire to 

discuss the events of the day. They 

determined that their magnificent 

discovery should be protected and 

they organized themselves into 

the Payson Alpine Club and voted 

Vearl Manwill as president. All the 

members voted unanimously that 

if the cave were to be protected, it 

should be turned over to the Forest 

Service. All agreed to keep the cave a 

secret and return for further exploration two weeks from that day.

Even as this group was organizing, the Forest Service 

was conducting their own search to discover the mysterious cave. When the Payson Alpine Club returned to 

American Fork Canyon two weeks later, Forest Rangers 

Walter Mann and Vivian West followed their path up the 

Timpanogos

Reflections

Visitor Guide - 2007 National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

INSIDE:

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

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

Making the Most of Your 

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

Meet the Neighbors. . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Protect Your Privilege: Stay 

on the Trail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Keep it Wild. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Visiting Timpanogos Cave. . . . . . 5

Nature’s Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Ranger Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

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

American Fork Canyon 

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

Emergency: 911

Sheriff: (801) 375-3601

Continued on page 3

Forest Service

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Uinta National Forest

Things to Do 3 ATV Use 4 Go Underground 5

Mysterious Cave Discovered

The Discovery of Timpanogos Cave

“ Mysterious New Cave in American Fork Canyon!” - boasted the American 

Fork Citizen. Early in 1921, local newspapers caught wind of a cave hidden in the steep crags of American Fork Canyon. But for all the searching of journalists and Forest Rangers, no one was able to locate the entrance to the 

rumored, beautiful cave.

Wherever you see these symbols, 

you’ll know your recreation fees 

are hard at work helping to fund 

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

parks and forests.

Thank You!

IT’S UP TO YOU

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

States. While enjoying the beauty of 

American Fork Canyon, please remember 

that few other nations have parks and 

forests that can compare to those of the 

United States. They are something to be 

proud of. They are something to preserve.

The protection 

of American 

Fork Canyon is 

ultimately in 

the hands of the 

people who visit 

it. Your cooperation with park 

and forest rules 

is one way to help ensure American Fork 

Canyon’s beauty.

Please treat your canyon with care so that 

future generations may enjoy these lands.

Payson Alpine Club (above)

Vearl Manwill (at left)

UserFee
2 2007

Timpanogos Reflections

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 offers 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 rugged roads and trails.

While vigorous activities can be fun and stimulating, some of 

the finest things American Fork Canyon has to offer 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 reflect 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 

magnificent canyon, and embrace the beauty and wonder of our 

heritage.

Sincerely,

Pam Gardner Denis Davis

District Ranger, Pleasant Grove Superintendent

Uinta NF Timpanogos Cave NM

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

Forest Service- U.S. Department of Agricuture

National Forest Foundation.............................www.natlforests.org

Forest Service Campground Reservation...www.recreation.gov

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

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..............................................................(800) 662-3337

Utah County Sheriff Dispatch ......................................(801) 343-4100

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) 608-6200

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

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

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

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

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

Recreation Fee

Allows recreating and use of facilities 

in American Fork Canyon and the 

Alpine Loop.

Three-day Pass $3.00

Fourteen-day Pass $10.00

Annual Pass $25.00

Golden Eagle Passport 

$65.00

Allows entrance to most 

national forest and park areas 

and some other federal fee 

areas for 12 months from date 

of purchase; non-transferable.

National Parks Pass $50.00

Allows entrance to most 

national parks for 12 months 

from date of purchase; nontransferable. 

Golden Eagle Hologram $15.00

Affix 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 affixed.

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 service 

areas to American citizens who 

provide proof of permanent disability; non-transferable.

Participation in the Recreation Fee Program allows fees collected at the fee 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 fee stations and Visitor Center. Cave tour fees are additional.

Denis Davis

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

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

Timpanogos Reflections is published yearly by 

the National Park Service, Timpanogos Cave 

National Monument, and the Uinta National 

Forest Service, to enhance visitor experience.

Editor-in-Chief:

Michael Gosse, Chief Ranger

Layout & Design:

Brandon K. Kowallis, NPS Ranger

Norman E. Young, NPS Volunteer

Cami Pulham, NPS Ranger

Writers:

Michael Gosse, NPS Chief Ranger

Pam Gardner, District Ranger

Larry Velarde, FS Employee

Camille Price, NPS Ranger

Charles Rosier, FS Employee

Feature Story:

Cami Pulham, NPS Ranger

Photographers:

Jon Jasper, NPS Ranger

Brandon Kowallis, NPS Ranger

Illustrators:

Elizabeth Kovacs, NPS Ranger

Camille Price, NPS Ranger

Cartographer:

Diane Shumway, FS Ranger

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.

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

Fees collected remain in 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 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 Fee 

Allows recreating and use of 

facilities in American Fork 

Canyon and the Alpine Loop. 

May be purchased at the fee 

stations or the Pleasant Grove 

Ranger District Office.

Three-day pass $3.00

Fourteen-day pass $10.00

Annual Pass $25.00

America the Beautiful—National Parks and

 Federal Recreational Lands 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.

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.

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.

All National Parks Passes, Golden Eagle, Golden Eagle Hologram, 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 online, visit the Internet 

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

The natural wonders of mountains, forests, 

lakes, and streams create an incomparable 

outdoor experience in American Fork Canyon. 

Prepare yourself well to enjoy your visit safely.

Safely Enjoy

American Fork Canyon

Rockfall

There is little soil cover on the precipitous 

slopes of American Fork Canyon, and 

bare rock ledges are common. The highly 

fractured, exposed limestones are subject 

to extreme weathering conditions, thereby, 

increasing the possibility of rockfall 

throughout the canyon. Be aware of the 

increased potential of rockfall on windy or 

rainy days, or during spring snow melt off. 

Kicking loose rocks off the trail may cause 

injuries to people below you. 

Slips/Falls

Slip/fall hazards are present on many trails 

within the canyon, especially during cooler 

weather when the trails are moist.

Watch your children. Your hand and voice 

may be too far away once your child leaves 

your side.

Use extra care near waterfalls, ridges, overlooks and wildlife.

Floods/Avalanches

Flash floods and snow avalanches occasionally 

occur in American Fork Canyon.

Avalanche release zones may be well above you 

and not within your sight.
3

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

steep canyon slopes and 

met them at the entrance 

to the cave. The club shared their discovery with the 

rangers and expressed their desire to protect it from vandals and mining operations. Their visit enabled the Forest 

Service to declare the cave to be a Public Service Site, that 

granted the cave a small amount of protection from miners and treasure seekers.

This beautiful cave was named Timpanogos Cave, 

and the fame of the cave spread throughout the state 

and beyond. The local Forest Service office wanted to 

protect the cave but also enable people to see it. A trail 

was constructed, lights were strung through the cave, and 

tours began. Its success was immediate. People traveled 

from throughout the United States to see the magnificent 

cave. Despite the growing attraction, there were many 

that also wished to mine the cave and remove the fragile 

cave formations. 

On October 14, 1922, President Warren G. Harding 

declared Timpanogos Cave to be a national monument 

forever protecting it for its scientific importance and for the 

enjoyment of the people.

As more visitors came to tour the cave, the Forest Service reinforced their efforts to protect the cave and educate 

the public about this unique and fragile resource. In 1933, 

management of Timpanogos Cave National Monument was 

transferred from the Forest Service to the National Park 

Service, who has continued to preserve the cave ever since.

As you visit American Fork Canyon, we invite you to 

take the time to stop in the visitor center and learn more 

about the beauties and wonders of Timpanogos Cave. Hike 

the trail and join a tour that will enable you to see and explore for yourself the magnificent cave uncovered by Vearl 

Manwill more than 85 years ago, and enjoy the mysteries 

and wonders hidden deep in Timpanogos Cave. 

Mysterious Cave (cont.)

Make the Most of Your Canyon Visit

A Few Hours

Take in an Evening Program or Junior Ranger 

Program. Join a Ranger at the Timpanogos Cave 

Visitor Center on Friday, Saturday, and Monday 

evenings from 7:30 to 8:30 p.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, 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 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 at the Timpanogos Cave 

Visitor Center and purchase your tickets to an 

underground wonderland. The Timpanogos 

Cave System is a series of three caves connected 

by two man-made tunnels. Panoramic views of 

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

to the cave entrance.

Ride a Bike or a Horse. Enjoy the multiple use 

trails available on the Uinta National Forest and 

enjoy a bike ride or horseback ride where no 

cars can go.

A Whole Day

Sleep Under the Stars. American Fork Canyon 

has four developed 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 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.

The Payson Alpine Club in 

Timpanogos Cave

Forest Service Photo

Forest Service Photo

Your Fees at WorkInvesting in American Fork Canyon and the Alpine Scenic Loop

American Fork Canyon is cared for today and preserved 

for future generations by the American people. Your 

fees help protect our natural and cultural heritage and 

ensure that everyone has a safe, enjoyable and educational experience.

Why Fees?

While the popularity of these national treasures grows, 

government funding for necessities such as building repairs, 

maintenance 

and cleaning 

of restrooms, 

law enforcement and other 

services, has 

not kept pace. 

Since 1996 

the National 

Park Service, 

Forest Service, 

Bureau of 

Land Management, and U.S. 

Fish and Wildlife service have collected Recreation 

Fees under the Fee Demonstration Program, which 

was replaced in 2004 by the Federal Lands Recreation 

Enhancement Act. Some of the costs for managing 

these lands are spread among those who use them most. 

Recreation Fees continue to provide a vital source of 

revenue for improving facilities and services for visitors.

How are My Fees Used?

Your fees are used for a variety of projects and improvements and make the canyon a safer, more enjoyable 

place to visit.

Projects in the canyon made possible by your fees 

include:

-Replacement of old restrooms. 

-Support to Utah County Sheriff and Timpanogos

 Emergency Response Team for patrols, and search

 and rescue operations. 

-Reconstruction of North Fork picnic sites.

-Expansion of Mt Timpanogos Trailhead, a new

 trail bridge, and a new restroom.

-Increased number of cave tours at Timpanogos

 Cave National Monument

-Reconstruction of Timpooneke Campground.

-Winter recreation program funding for snow

 removal, cross-country skiing access and groomed 

 trails.

-Cascade Springs accessibility trail and upper

 parking lot construction.

-Interpretive evening programs in American Fork 

 Canyon.

-Little Mill Campground Reconstruction beginning

 summer 2007

For More Information

The protection and enhancement of these public lands 

is everyone’s responsibility. Our management of this 

program can only succeed with your participation and 

support. For additional information or comments, 

please contact:

Pleasant Grove Ranger District

390 N. 100 E.

Pleasant Grove, Utah 84062

801-785-3563

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

R.R. 3 Box 200

American Fork, Utah 84003

801-756-5239

New Restroom at Grey Cliffs Picnic Area

Old fire ring at Timpooneke Campground

New campsite at Timpooneke Campground
4 2007

Timpanogos Reflections

American Fork Canyon Visitors are lucky to have two 

wilderness areas they can enjoy. Lone Peak Wilderness lies on the north side of the canyon and Mount 

Timpanogos Wilderness to the south. 

The National Wilderness Preservation System was 

created on September 3, 1964, when President Lyndon 

B. Johnson signed the Wilderness Act. This landmark 

legislation set aside 9 million acres of wilderness. In 

2007, Americans now have more than 106 million 

acres of designated wilderness across the United States. 

In 1977, Lone Peak Wilderness was established by 

Congress as part of the “Endangered American Wilderness Act”. Lone Peak Wilderness contains about 31,000 

acres; the portion north of the Salt Lake County line is 

managed by the Wasatch-Cache National Forest and 

the largest portion, which lies south of the county line 

to American Fork Canyon, is managed by the Uinta 

National Forest. Campfires are prohibited in the Silver 

Lake Basin located on the eastern edge of the wilderness. 

Mount Timpanogos Wilderness was established by the 

“Utah Wilderness Act of 1984”. This wilderness area 

is about 10,500 acres and extends from American Fork 

Canyon on the north to Provo Canyon on the south. 

Campfires are not allowed in the Mount Timpanogos 

Wilderness. 

High use of sensitive areas threatens the untrammeled quality of wilderness. Preserving the integrity 

of wilderness preserves its unique recreational value. 

Visitors can help by practicing “leave no trace” ethics, 

avoid cutting switch backs, and limiting group sizes to 

15 persons or less. Visitors must also remember the 

use of motorized or mechanized equipment, including bikes, within wilderness is prohibited. If you have 

any questions, please call the Pleasant Grove Ranger 

District at 801-785-3563.

Wasatch Mountain State Park shares the eastern border of the Uinta National Forest. At 23,000 acres, this 

neighbor plays host to numerous recreational and scenic 

opportunities. 

Throughout 2007, Utah State Parks and Recreation 

celebrates 50 years of parks, recreation, and protection 

and preservation of natural and cultural resources. Utah’s 

state park system began with four heritage parks in 1957. 

Today, there are 42 Utah State Parks and several undeveloped areas totaling 95,000 acres of land and more 

than one million surface acres of water. Utah State Park 

visitation has grown from an estimated 350,000 visitors 

in 1957 to nearly 4.5 million in 2005.

Wasatch Mountain State Park became a part of the State 

Park system in 1961 and has become one of Utah’s most 

developed state parks offering golf, picnicking, primitive 

and developed camping, historical sites, and trails for 

hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, horseback riding and off-highway vehicles. Wasatch Mountain 

State Park was proud host of the 2002 Olympic Winter 

Games at Soldier Hollow. The venue remains open 

to the public year-round with a variety of activities 

and events. Soldier Hollow offers cross-country 

skiing, tubing, summer and winter biathlon, in-line 

skating facilities, and more.

Educational programs are offered year round. 

Every Saturday from May through September, 

youth ages 6 -12 can participate in Junior Ranger 

Programs. New topics each week cover history, geology, wildlife, plants, fire safety, and our senses. 

Evening programs are offered every weekend 

in the summer at the Pine Creek Campground 

Amphitheater and cover topics such as Dutch oven 

cooking, Birds of Prey, Animal Tracks and Scat, 

Edible Berries, Division of Wildlife Drug Dogs, 

Local History, and more. For information on any of these 

programs, call the park at (435) 654-1791.

More Americans than ever are using off-highway 

vehicles (OHV), which includes motorcycles, ATVs, 

and four-wheel drive vehicles, to enjoy the outdoors. 

Last year, OHV users accounted for about 12 million 

visits to National Forests and Grasslands. In the right 

places and managed carefully, motor vehicles are 

appropriate uses of National Forests. However, if not 

managed carefully, motorized recreation can damage 

both the land and the resources that visitors come to 

enjoy. 

That is where you, the rider, can help. Responsible 

riders know that one way to protect their riding 

privilege is to stay on designated trails. These routes 

have been developed to provide OHV users with 

some great riding adventures. Responsible riders 

also know that riding areas and trail systems can be 

closed because of the careless acts of irresponsible 

riders. 

It is your responsibility as an OHV operator to know 

what trails are open to motor vehicles. Be sure 

you have a current travel map and know where you 

are. Routes that are open are usually marked with a 

brown fiberglass marker that shows the route number, 

and what types of use that trail or road is open to. 

For example the North Fork of American Fork 

Canyon above Tibble Fork Reservoir is designated 

as Forest Service Road # 085 and marked for fourwheel drive, motorcycle, and ATV use. If any of 

these decals had a red slash through it, that use is not 

allowed. Markers may also be missing or vandalized, 

so be sure you have a current travel map.

Remember, riding on public lands is a privilege not 

a right. Following the rules and educating other 

motorized users will help protect your privilege.

Protect Your Privilege

 Stay on the Trail

ATVs exploring designated trails. 

(Forest Service Photo)

Protect American Fork Canyon: 

treadlightly!®

Tread Lightly! is an educational 

program dedicated to increasing 

awareness of how to enjoy the great 

outdoors while minimizing impacts of 

recreational use.

Make the commitment to reduce your impact on 

the environment by following the Tread Lightly! 

principles as summarized in the Tread Lightly! 

pledge:

•Travel and recreate with minimum impact

•Respect the environment and the rights of others

•Educate yourself, plan and prepare before you go

•Allow for future use of the outdoors, leave it

 better than you found it

•Discover the rewards of responsible recreation

For more information on Tread Lightly! visit their website at 

www.treadlightly.org

Keep it Wild!

Meet the Neighbors

 Wasatch Mountain State Park

Pond at Wasatch Mt State Park

Little Mill Campground 

 Reconstruction Soon Underway

This is the year for reconstruction. Campers who’ve stayed 

at the Little Mill Campground in the last couple of years 

may have seen the signs, “Closed for Construction” on some 

campsites. 

This reconstruction project has faced some challenges. Falling rock is common from the steep cliffs in American Fork 

Canyon. After completing a rock-fall hazard assessment, 

design features, such as berms, will provide campers additional protection from falling rocks. 

Not just people need protected—but so does the American 

Fork River. Years of camper use has left the river banks 

bare and eroded. Careful placement of large rocks and logs 

will protect the banks and improve fish habitat. Rock steps 

in the campground will offer more controlled and easier 

river access. 

These and other considerations will mean a smaller campground. Once stretching a mile along the river, the reconstructed campground will be less than half that length. New 

entrance and exit bridges will shorten up the road. The 

unneeded road sections will become a walking trail. New 

picnic sites and day-use parking will also be part of the 

reconstruction. 

Look for the reconstructed campground to reopen in 2008. 

Recreation fees helped pay for these improvements. Thank 

you for your support and your patience while we make these 

canyon improvements. 
5

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Whether for a cave tour, an evening 

program, a picnic, or just to hike or walk, 

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

spectacular canyon vistas, magnificent 

evergreens, a babbling mountain brook, 

and lots of things to see and do, the 

monument is the perfect place for a 

memorable summertime outing!

Tours of the 3 adjoining caves are offered 

from early-May through early-October, 

weather permitting. 

Guided by National Park Rangers, these 

1-hour tours are limited to 20 people. 

Plan on spending about 3 hours roundtrip 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 45oF [7oC]). 

Cameras and flashlights are welcome.

The three highly decorated limestone 

caves are known for their abundance 

of helictites—spiral, worm-like formations that are rare in most other caves 

throughout the world. Along the 3/4 mile 

tour deep inside the mountain, you’ll 

discover many other interesting, colorful 

features. Anthodite crystals, stalagmites, 

stalagtites, cave drapery, and flowstone 

are among other formations that adorn 

the rooms and winding passages.

To reach the Timpanogos Cave System, 

which is located 6,730 feet above sea 

level, visitors must hike the 1.5-mile (2.4 

km) hard-surfaced cave trail. The trail, 

which rises 1,065 feet (325 m), is considered a strenuous hike. Anyone with heart 

trouble or breathing problems should 

not attempt the hike. Those under 16 

years of age must be accompanied by an 

adult at all times.

The Introduction to Caving Tour takes 

visitors back to Hansen Cave Lake. This 

off-trail tour is a strenuous hike that 

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

is limited to 5. Participants must be at 

least 14 years old. For more information 

please call (801) 756-5238.

Children who visit the caves can earn a 

Junior Ranger certificate and badge at 

the Visitor Center.

Impromptu patio talks are often given 

on Saturdays and holidays at the Visitor Center. These ranger-presented 

programs cover a variety of interesting 

topics for kids of all ages!

Join a park ranger every Friday, Saturday, and Monday night at 7:30 p.m. at 

the Visitor Center for some very special 

evening programs. These informative 

programs are educational and entertaining. Activities range from the study of 

local wildlife to campfire singing. (See 

Page 7 of this guide for details.)

The Visitor Center is open from 7:00 

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

tour season (May through Labor Day). 

Hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

after Labor Day until the visitor center 

closes for the winter.

The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area is 1/4 

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

lead you there. Cooking grills, drinking 

water, and fire rings are available at the 

picnic sites. Parking is also available.

A small, shaded, streamside picnic area 

is also located directly across the road 

from the Visitor Center.

Food, snacks, beverages, film, clothing, 

and souvenirs, and a shaded eating-area 

and parking are located next to the visitor center. For more information call 

(801) 756-5702.

For more information on any of the 

activities offered at Timpanogos Cave 

National Monument, please call the 

Visitor Center at (801) 756-5238 or visit 

http://www.nps.gov/tica to learn more.

Visiting Timpanogos Cave

National Monument

Anthodite crystals

Teacher’s Corner

Timpanogos Cave National Monument 

welcomes all school groups to 

experience Nature’s classroom. Discover 

geology millions of years old, ancient 

sea life, and a series of caves deep 

underground. 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.

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. . . . . . . . . . . $3.50

Introduction to Caving Tour. . $15.00

Cave Tour Pricing

Lend a Helping Hand

Would you like to get to know your 

forest and park better? Consider 

becoming a volunteer! Your skills and 

enthusiasm are needed in a variety of 

areas from greeting visitors, maintaining facilities and trails, to monitoring 

resources. Volunteers 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 or contact the 

volunteer coordinator at Timpanogos 

Cave National Monument at (801) 756-

5239 to find out about VIPs, BATS, and 

More. 

To find out about volunteer opportunities on the Uinta National Forest, 

visit the Uinta’s volunteering website 

at www.fs.fed.us/r4/uinta/volunteering or call the Pleasant Grove Ranger 

District at (801)785-3563. We’d love to 

have you join us. NPS volunteer helping visitors

Cave Tours

Inside the Caves

Introduction to 

Caving Tour

Junior Ranger Program 

and Patio Talks

Cave Access Trail

Visitor Center Hours

Picnic Area and 

Nature Trail

Gift Shop and Snack Bar

Planning a Visit?

Evening Programs

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!

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

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.
6 2007

Timpanogos Reflections

Nature’s Calendar

American Fork Canyon has beautiful flora and fauna that reflect the seasonal changes.

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

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

activity taking place inches from where you’re standing.

January Cold temperatures are 

hard for many animals to 

be outside, but White Fir

trees can endure temperatures down to -40 degrees F. Although 

the surface may be cold, many animals, such as Deer Mice and 

Montane Vole, are still running around in tunnels beneath the 

snow. 

February Great Horned 

Owls can occasionally be heard 

at night during the winter. They are keeping their eyes sharp for 

small rodents that might emerge from beneath the snow. Ringtail Cats also prowl at night in search of berries or small rodents 

for dinner.

March Watch for Robins and other 

signs of spring. Snow is melting and many trees are beginning to bud. Rocky Mountain Goats are now easily seen climbing canyon cliffs as the snow melts away.

April Spring is often the time for animals 

to deliver their young. As the month 

ends you may begin to see raccoons, 

coyotes, and other animals emerging from their dens with their 

new babies.

May 

Each day the green foliage of the canyon is creeping higher and higher up the 

mountainside, and along side the patches 

of remaining snow the Mountain Goats are grazing with their 

newborn kids. In the lower canyon, look for the snowy blossoms 

of the Chokecherry Tree and the white blossoms of the Western 

Serviceberry Tree. Flitting from fir tree to fir tree the Stellar’s Jay

is probably heard before it is seen! Its call is loud and raucous. 

June It’s often mistaken for Indian paintbrush, 

but that is actually Firecracker Penstemon blooming along the gravelly roadside. Birds have young in their nest, with most chicks leaving by 

the end of the month. Townsend’s Chipmunks are busy and their 

familiar “chip-chip” sound can be heard. It’s also fawning time. 

Mule Deer give birth in May and June, and the spotted fawns 

stay hidden in the tall grass for several weeks before venturing 

out with their mothers. Do not disturb!

July The meadows are covered with blooming 

purple-blue Lupine and white Jacob’s Ladder. Watch and listen for hummingbird activity. The Broad-tailed Hummer is the most common for this 

region. 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, often confused with 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 flycatcher. Could a 

bobcat or mountain lion possibly be watching you from its perch 

on a cliff?

September Moose may 

be spotted in their 

magnificence in meadows and streamside areas. Careful not to 

get too close; they are unpredictable! Mule Deer are shedding 

their summer coats. 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 Fir, the Douglas Fir, the Limber Pine, 

and the Blue Spruce (Utah’s state tree). It is mating season for 

deer. Bucks may wrestle each other for territory, clashing antlers 

until one gives up and leaves the area. Bucks are very unpredictable at this time, so keep your distance. When food is abundant, 

Black Bears will eat up to 45 lbs. and put on 5 lbs. per day in 

preparation for winter. 

November N o r t h 

A m e r i c a n 

Elk mate in 

late fall which often leads to stags challenging opponents. Red 

Foxes are hunting gaining weight in preparation for winter; foxes being opportunistic eaters will comb the canyon looking for 

rodents, worms, insects, and even fruit. Without its leaves, the 

red branches of the Red-osier Dogwood are easily spotted on the 

banks of the American Fork River. 

December Many animals 

are changing the color 

of their fur for winter camouflage. Snowshoe hare and Longtail weasel now have beautiful white fur coats for hiding in the 

snow. Many animals hibernate throughout the winter such as 

Black Bears and Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel.

Summer’s Hummingbird

Spring Lupine

Fall-colored Aspen

Winter’s fresh snow
7

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Timpanogos Cave National Monument and the Uinta National Forest offer a variety of Ranger guided 

activities for everyone from Memorial 

Day to Labor Day. The following programs may be offered 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. 

American Fork Canyon

Evening Programs:

Fridays, Saturdays, & Mondays

7:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Programs presented either at 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument Visitor Center or at Swinging 

Bridge Picnic Area (located 1/4 mile 

west of the Visitor Center).

Birds of Prey

Visitor Center

Learn about the birds of prey that can 

be found throughout American Fork 

Canyon. Live birds may be in attendance.

Nature’s Music in the Canyon

Visitor Center

Enjoy an evening of sights and sounds 

while viewing a slide show of scenic 

American Fork Canyon and surrounding areas. Live acoustic guitar 

accompaniment provided.

Bats! Flying Creatures of the 

Night

Visitor Center

Afraid of bats? Or do you love those 

furry little flying creatures? Either way 

you’ll have fun as you discover the 

truth behind bat myths and folklore.

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.

Reflections: 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.

Singing in the Canyon: Songs 

of the Summer

Swinging Bridge Picnic Area

In the good ol’ summertime families 

gather around the campfire 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.

Animal 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.

Wasatch Mountain State 

Park Evening Programs:

Weekends

Programs presented Wasatch Mountain State Park are offered every 

weekend at the Pine Creek Amphitheater. and cover topics such as Dutch 

oven cooking, Birds of Prey, Animal 

Tracks and Scat, Edible Berries, Division 

of Wildlife Drug Dogs, Local History, 

and more. For information on any of 

these programs, call the park at (435) 

654-1791.

Ranger Programs

Junior Ranger Certificate presentation

Kid’s Corner

 Making Tracks!

Match the animal to the tracks it leaves behind

Do You Know the Saying?

_ak_ o_l_

 L_ _v_ o_l_

Become a Junior Ranger

The Timpanogos Cave NM Junior Ranger program is designed for kids 

of all ages. Through activites and puzzles, you can have fun learning 

about the monument and the caves. You can earn a badge or a patch 

and a certificate.

Stop by the visitor center for more information aobut the Junior Ranger program.

E V N Z P I C N I S

B V E R U I T L D O

L E A X N K P C S G

A N S C O U G A R O

C I I A F J R N B N

K P N M I E O Y S A

B L N P V P E O H P

E A F I S H E N O M

A M R N C E R G R I

R Q W G Y M T N E T

Word Search

cave

canyon

tree

cougar

black bear 

fish

alpine

camping

tent

picnic

timpanogos

river

Q: How do you catch a squirrel?

A: You climb up a tree and act like a nut.

Q: What did the moss say to the rock?

A: I’ve got you covered.

BoneFunny 

Eye Spy!

Can you spot these recreational activities in the canyon?

Answers:

Making Tracks, 1.C, 2.E, 3.D, 4.A, 5.B

Do You Know the Saying: “Take only pictures, leave only footprints”

A B

C

D

E

Help the Squirrel Find 

the Acorn

1. Skunk

2. Rocky Mountian

Goat

3. Raccoon

4. Big Horn Sheep

5. Mountain Lion
8 2007

Timpanogos Reflections

Timpanogos Cave

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American Fork Canyon - Recreation Map

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Miles

® Original data was compiled from multiple source data

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

Standard of the Office of Management and Budget.

For specific data source dates and/or additional

digital information contact the Forest Supervisor,

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

warranties to its contents or accuracy.

Ownership

National Park Service

Private

Utah State Wildlife Management Area

Wilderness

Recreation Sites

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!9 Campground

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S Gate - Winter Road Closure Sá Dirt Roads

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SystemTrails