Visitors to American Fork Canyon are the 

canyon’s most important guardians. With 

nearly 1.3 million people watching over its 

special plants, animals, historic, and archeological sites, imagine how well-protected 

these canyon resources could be! During 

your visit to American Fork Canyon be 

aware that there are people who either 

unknowingly or intentionally harm canyon 

resources. Please contact a forest or park 

official if you see any of the following illegal 

acts.

• Feeding or harassing wildlife 

• Collecting plants 

• Collecting reptiles and butterflies 

• Picking up archeological items such as 

arrowheads 

• Using metal detectors to locate and collect historic objects 

• Driving vehicles into meadows, lakes and 

streams 

If you see activities that could

harm people or canyon resources, jot down any descriptions or 

a vehicle license plate number 

and call the Pleasant Grove 

Ranger Station at 801-785-3563.

Visitors often ask where rangers’ favorite haunts are, 

believing they are precious secrets. However, the truth is 

that many “secret” spots are simply hidden in plain view. 

Consider Cascade Springs. Many people visit the lower 

Springs with its crystal clear ponds, native fishes, and 

beautiful wildflowers—yet surprisingly few take the quick 

uphill stroll around the beautiful upper Springs meadow. 

Meadows are home to so much life. In fact, nowhere in 

American Fork Canyon will you find greater diversity of 

plants and animals. Deer, bears, numerous birds, and an 

unbelievable number of smaller creatures all depend upon 

the amazing variety of plants found there.

Along the Alpine Loop Road you can find another, 

and perhaps my original, favorite place. It has no waterfall, 

no grand vista. Yet, if I could visit American Fork Canyon 

and spend only a few minutes at one place, I might spend 

it away from the canyon’s more famous scenery. I might sit 

in a grove of aspen trees near the Alpine Summit. Perhaps 

it was at this un-named location that I learned about rest. 

There, on a cool fall day I could hear nothing but the 

chirping of birds 

and the waving of 

giant ferns against 

a sea of aspen 

trees for as far as 

the eye could see. 

Another favorite: Bridal Veil 

Falls. At 607 feet 

tall, this striking 

double cataract 

waterfall stands 

testament to the 

power of moving 

water. It is visible 

from Highway 

189; however, it is 

best seen from an 

exit which leads 

to a small parking 

lot at the base of 

the falls. From the 

parking area you 

can follow a path 

to get a closer view 

of the falls. Also, 

not far from Bridal 

Veil Falls, lies 

Stewarts Cascades. 

This cavalcade of 

waterfalls runs 

almost year round 

as snow melt-off 

from the backside of Mount 

Timpanogos. 

Although smaller 

than Bridal Veil Falls, 

the easy 3.7 mile round trip 

trail is choked with aspen, 

pine, and oak of all colorsthe flora itself is a cascade of 

paint: burnt reds, yellows, and 

greens. There are also ample 

opportunities to see wildlife: 

birds, deer, fox and rabbits.

Finally, I have to include 

going underground. Caves 

are such dark, mysterious 

places, full of interesting life, 

sounds, and sights that I often 

wonder what it would be like 

Timpanogos

Reflections

Visitor Guide - 2009 National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

INSIDE:

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

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

Free Activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Get Our Kids Outside. . . . . . . . . . . 4

Bears in the Wild. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Fire Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Visiting Timpanogos Cave. . . . . . 5

Climate Change. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Canyon Seasons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

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

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

American Fork Canyon 

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

Emergency: 911

Sheriff: (801) 375-3601

Continued on page 2

Forest Service

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National 

Forest

What’s New 3 Kids Outside 4 Go Underground 5

American Fork Canyon Secrets

Have you ever wondered about a ranger’s favorite 

American Fork Canyon spot?

D eep in the heart of American Fork Canyon lies a small lake with an expansive 

view of the Lone Peak Wilderness and perfect views of the mineral basin—a 

place where one can see immense granite cliffs and delicate wildflowers. A 

spot I can gaze into the cool, clear waters reflecting the brilliant blue sky. I could spend 

hours there; indeed, I have. This place, called Silver Lake, is one of my favorite spots. 

Wherever you see this symbol, 

you’ll know your recreation dollars 

are hard at work helping to fund 

this project. Thank 

you for helping to 

make a difference 

in your parks and 

forests.

Thank You!

Bridal Veil Falls (above)

Aspens on the Alpine Loop (at Left)

Our Guardians
2 2009

Timpanogos Reflections

Welcome to the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and Timpanogos Cave National Monument! Over 300,000 acres await your exploration and enjoyment in American 

Fork Canyon. From an elevation of 4,500 feet at the entrance to the 11,750 foot summit 

of Mount Timpanogos, American Fork Canyon offers an experience of unmatched sights, sounds, and solitude. We trust 

that you will have a wonderful time as you explore and experience this great canyon.

 While you are here, take a moment to put your cares aside. As you drive through the canyon, hike to the cave, ski or 

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

landscape.

 We often think of parks and forests as outdoor museums, but taking care of a living ecosystem is very different than 

protecting unchanging objects. Both natural features and human facilities may be different each time you visit. Both are 

changing all the time. How we take care of those features and facilities may also affect your visit. You probably won’t notice 

the environmental monitoring equipment at Timpanogos Cave that works 24 hours a day, but you will see other activities 

such as revegetation, road work, painting and trail maintenance. Some activities may unavoidably affect you if they lead to 

temporary closures. 

 The park and forest staff uses such actions as tools to maintain the landscape and protect its inhabitants and visitors. Your 

visit gives you but a snapshot of this process; Nature decides the timing of many of these actions. They all share one goal: 

protection of these forests and parks for people now and in the future.

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

have a shared stewardship role. Please be mindful of that as you spend time in YOUR national park and forest. We hope 

you will be refreshed and restored during your visit, and stay connected to this magnificent landscape long after you have 

returned home.

Sincerely,

to be the first person to 

discover and step foot in a 

cave. The Introduction to Caving Tour at Timpanogos 

Cave National Monument takes 5 people a day on a 

two hour tour to Hansen Cave Lake. This tour route 

was closed for 80 years to the public, and now offers an 

opportunity to immerse yourself in total darkness and 

serenity while you sit quietly on the edge of a lake listening to the sound of water dripping into the cave. Such 

is the nature of wildness—the non-reliance upon, and 

unfamiliarity with, humans. Much of American Fork 

Canyon is wild—and legally required to be kept that 

way by the Wilderness Act.

John Muir once wrote, “thousands of tired, nerveshaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that 

going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity...” You don’t need to travel far to find special places, 

to find wildness, or to forget the distractions of everyday 

life. Every place I mentioned is within a few hours’—if not 

a few minutes’—walk from your vehicle and in or near the 

Alpine Scenic Loop Drive, just one small part of American Fork Canyon. The other 90 percent of American Fork 

Canyon is also waiting for your discovery. You don’t need 

to seek these experiences; you just need an open mind. And 

then, you will discover your own American Fork Canyon 

secrets.

Canyon Secrets (cont.)

Renee Flanagan

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

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

Nearby National Parks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other

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

Recreation Reservation Service .................................(888) 999-4019

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

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

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

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

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:

Cami Pulham, NPS Ranger

Writers:

Michael Gosse, NPS Chief Ranger

Charles Rosier, FS Employee

Feature Story:

Mike Gosse, NPS Ranger

Photographers:

Jon Jasper, NPS Ranger

Dan Hadley, NPS Ranger

Nate Hawks, FS Employee

Illustrators:

Karissa DeCarlo, NPS Ranger

Cartographer:

Ken Burton, 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.

Hansen Lake in The Timpanogos Cave 

System

Welcome! Bienvenue!

Bienvenidos! Wilkommen!

Renee Flanagan Denis Davis

Acting District Ranger, Pleasant Grove Superintendent

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache NF Timpanogos Cave NM

Canyon Passes

The majority of 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-WasatchCache National Forest, Timpanogos Cave National Monument and our partners appreciate your support. The following passes are available at the fee stations and Forest Service and Park Service offices. Cave tour fees are additional.

Canyon Recreation 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 - $6.00

Seven-day pass - $12.00

Annual Pass - $45.00

 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.

Interagency Senior Pass - $10.00

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

residents age 62 or over. The pass provides access to, 

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

Interagency Access Pass - Free

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

residents with permanent disabilities. Documentation 

is required to obtain the pass and must be obtained in 

person. The pass provides access to, and use of, Federal 

recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard 

Amenity fee. Non-transferable.

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.

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

Golden Age and Access Passports may be exchanged free of charge for new plastic passes.
3

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Trail Maintenance in American Fork Canyon

What’s New?

Your Canyon Fees at Work

Renovations at Little 

Mill Campground

Enhanced Restroom Maintenance

Emerald Lake Shelter

Guided Timpanogos Cave Tours

Free Activities

Walks and Talks: 

Free ranger-led talks are offered every Friday 

through Monday at the Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center. Check bulletin boards, stop at the 

Visitor Center, or call 801-756-5238 to see when 

walks and other talks are scheduled. 

Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center

Offers different exhibits to enjoy. The Cooperating Association and Concessioner sell a wide 

variety of books, maps, postcards, posters, and 

other items. Open daily.

Junior Ranger Program 

Kids of all ages earn a badge while having fun 

and helping to protect and preserve resources. 

Pick up a free Jr. Ranger booklet at the visitor 

center. Follow the instructions and have fun! 

Ranger led programs every Saturday at 10 am.

Teachers

Bring your class to the park! Fun, curriculumbased programs for all students in spring 

through fall. Topics include geology, caves, 

plants, animals, and cultural 

history. For details or to reserve a date, call 801-756-5239. 

Ranger In Your classroom! 

Bring the parks to your 

elementary students and let them discover these 

world-famous parks from their own classroom. 

Call 801-756-5239 to learn more.

Earn a Jr Ranger Badge

You have just contributed anywhere from $6.00 to 

$80.00 for the privilege of enjoying and preserving 

a spectacular area of our national heritage. Your 

fee supports many projects within American Fork 

Canyon.

Little Mill Campground Reconstruction

This extremely popular campground was completely 

redesigned 

in 2008 for 

a safer and 

more enjoyable camping 

experience. 

The access 

road was 

re-aligned 

and new 

camp pads, 

fire rings, 

lighted restrooms, and 

picnic tables 

installed. In addition, a parking area 

and restroom for climbers constructed, streambank 

stabilization implemented, and the Saw Mill Picnic 

Area created.

Cave Tours and Ranger Programs

Timpanogos Cave 

National Monument is pleased 

to have five additional national 

park service 

rangers available to provide 

interpretive cave 

tours, evening 

programs, junior 

ranger programs, 

walks and talks, 

and school outreach. These additional rangers will be available to meet the demands 

of serving over 130,000 visitors annually, and provide 

free evening programs every Friday through Monday 

evenings from 7:00-8:00pm.

New and Improved Restrooms

Over 16 new vault restrooms have been installed in 

American Fork Canyon since the implementation of 

the fee program. These cleaner and more modern 

restrooms receive heavy use especially at trailheads 

and parking areas. The installation of these new restrooms will provide improved facilities throughout 

the canyon and enhanced cleaning and maintenance 

of these restrooms is now also possible.

Other 2008 Improvements Made Possible by Your 

Fees

• Additional patrols and search and rescue support 

from the Utah County Sheriff’s Office

• Groomed snowmobile trails in partnership with 

Wasatch Mountain State Park

• Snow removal to facilitate winter camping and 

recreation access

• Cross-country ski trail grooming

• Updated trail signs and trailhead information 

kiosks

• Maintained over 90 miles of hiking and single 

track trails

• One mile re-route of the Mill Canyon Trail

Upcoming Projects

• Development and implementation of a comprehensive interpretive plan for American Fork Canyon 

and the Alpine Scenic Loop

• Additional education outreach programs for 

school children

• Construction of Cascade Springs Picnic Area

• Ranger guided interpretive programs at Cascade 

Springs

• Construction of an accessible boardwalk, fishing docks, and interpretive trail around Tibble Fork 

Reservoir

• Continued reconstruction of the Tibble Fork, Mill 

Canyon, and Mud Springs Trails.

• New access bridge across the American Fork 

River at the Mill Canyon Trailhead.

• Reconstruction of the Echo Picnic Area

• Timpooneke Trailhead Reconstruction

• Reconstruction of the “plunge and dive” section 

of the East Ridge Trail

• Rehabilitation of the Emerald Lake Shelter on 

Mount Timpanogos

• Rehabilitation of the Theater in the Pines Amphitheater in partnership with the BYU Alumni Camp

• Continued enhancement of road and trail signs

• North Fork road improvements from Pole Line 

Pass to Tibble 

Fork Reservoir.

• Silver Lake 

Dam stabilization and fisheries improvements

The protection 

and enhancement of public 

lands is everyone’s responsibility. Over 

95% of the fees 

collected in 

American Fork 

Canyon stay in 

the canyon, with 

the remaining 5% distributed to the regional forester 

to be used for other national forest projects.

The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument thanks you 

for your support. Actions taken today will determine 

the condition of the lands and facilities passed on to 

future generations. For additional information or 

comments, please contact:

Pleasant Grove Ranger Station

390 North 100 East

Pleasant Grove, Utah 84062 

(801) 185-3563
4 2009

Timpanogos Reflections

Each year campfires, cigarettes, and human carelessness cause unwanted fires in American Fork Canyon. 

You can help prevent these fires by following a few 

fire safety tips:

Campfires

• Build small campfires in established campfire rings.

• Never leave a campfire unattended.

Cigarettes

• Never throw lighted cigarettes on the ground or 

out of a car window.

• Do not smoke while walking on trails. Stop, 

smoke, and properly discard the cigarette butt before 

resuming your walk.

Charcoal Briquettes

• Never burn charcoal briquettes in a tent or vehicle. 

The carbon monoxide produced by burning

charcoal is deadly in a confined space.

• After use, dunk burning briquettes in water until 

cold. 

• Never throw burning or warm briquettes into 

trashcans or dumpsters.

Camping Stoves and Lanterns

• Refuel stoves or lanterns only when they are cold 

and in a well-ventilated area.

• Never use gas-fueled lanterns and stoves in tents or 

vehicles. These devices produce carbon monoxide 

gas which can be deadly.

 

Have you heard all the talk about kids spending too 

much time indoors and not enough exploring and connecting with nature? It’s been the topic of several books, 

and the predicted outcome is dire: unhealthy kids growing into adults who can’t relate to nature. Just as you’re 

doing your part by choosing to come here, the staff at 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument and the UintaWasatch-Cache National Forest is working to make sure 

the predictions don’t come true. This summer you’ll notice expanded offerings for kids as part of a new Canyon 

Kids Youth project, which focuses on family programs, 

student volunteer opportunities, technology innovations, 

ranger-guided activities, and special events. Schools are a logical 

place to start building connections. This year Timpanogos 

Cave’s Interpretive staff will be available to travel to 

classrooms and bring curriculum-based programs to student classrooms. The Teacher-Ranger-Teacher program 

also focuses on students and teachers. Four teacher-rangers are working at Timpanogos Cave National Monument this summer, creating lesson plans to use when they 

return to their classrooms. During National Park Week 

in April, they don their uniforms and present special 

programs to bring the parks to their students. 

 Once students get to high school, they can become 

B.A.T.S.. The Behind A Tour Specialist (B.A.T.S.) 

program is a volunteer youth program encouraging kids 

to get outdoors, help protect and preserve their national 

park, and work with a park ranger! The Behind A Tour 

Specialist program allows students to work in and learn 

about one of the jewels of the National Park System—

not a bad way to spend a summer or possibly earn high 

school credit! We’re also reaching out to kids at home, in 

schools, and in the park through technology. We’re working on MP3 tours of the park, enhanced kids’ web pages, 

and even cell phone tours. In the future, we hope to 

develop electronic field trips for students and hands-on, 

interactive exhibits at the Visitor Center. Ranger-guided 

activities and special events continue this year as always, 

with an even bigger 

schedule of programs 

for kids. Join a park 

ranger for walks, 

talks, and hikes as 

you explore the park 

with your children. 

 Finally, 

Timpanogos Cave 

National Monument 

is taking a leading 

role in the development of a collaborative interpretive 

effort with the UintaWasatch-Cache 

National Forest, 

Utah State Parks, Sundance Nature Center, Thanksgiving 

Point, and the Hutchings Museum to provide families 

and kids fun-filled, educational activities and programs 

for the whole family throughout the year. Activities will 

include week long summer camps, nature walks and 

talks, and live birds of prey shows. 

 These programs are just a few of many innovative 

activities that are part of the park’s effort to connect kids 

and nature. Park staff is looking forward to providing 

this exciting new slate of programs for kids. We hope 

you will take advantage of these new opportunities!

Fire Safety

Get Our Kids Outside

Store Your Food Properly.

The typical diet of most bears is 4,000 to 20,000 

calories worth of grasses, berries, acorns, and grubs 

each day. It’s a lot easier for a bear to eat the thousands of calories of food in an ice chest than it is to 

spend all day nibbling at grasses. Bears are intelligent 

and curious animals that posess a sense of smell 

seven times greater than that of a bloodhound! This 

keen sense allows them to detect things we can’t, 

which helps them find food. 

A black bear can smell a dead 

deer three miles away. To top it 

off, bears have excellent vision 

and can see in color, so they recognize ice chests, 

grocery bags, and other food containers as potential 

food sources.

If you see a bear, scare it away or keep your 

distance. You may not see a bear during your visit 

because they naturally avoid people. However, if you 

see one in a developed area (like a campground or 

parking lot), act immediately to scare it away. Make 

noise and yell as loud as possible. If there is more 

than one person, stand together to present a more 

intimidating figure, but do not surround the bear. 

If you see a bear anywhere else, consider yourself 

lucky—but keep your distance (at least 50 yards, or 

about the distance made by four buses parked end 

to end). If you get too close, you will be helping the 

bear become used to being around people. Bears 

that become comfortable around humans lose their 

natural fear of us and may become too aggressive. 

When that happens, they sometimes have to be 

killed.

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, Sunday, and 

Monday evenings from 7:00 to 8:00 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 Forest 

Service Road 114, and consists of boardwalks 

over springs cascading down the mountain slope 

in a series of limestone terraces and pools.

Hike to the Cave. Stop 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 in the National Forest and enjoy 

a bike ride or horseback ride where no cars can 

go.

A Whole Day

Sleep Under the Stars. American Fork Canyon 

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

summer.

Take a Hike. Over 

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.

Mt Timpanogos Wilderness

Keeping Bears Wild

(While Protecting Yourself and Your Property)
5

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Teacher’s Tip

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.

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.

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, 

Sundays, and Monday night at 7:00 p.m. 

at the Visitor Center or Mutual Dell for 

the 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

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

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

 (801) 216-3811

Your cell phone provides another opportunity to learn more about Timpanogos 

Cave National Monument. You can 

listen to a narration over your cell phone 

at various points of interest along the 

cave trail. Wherever you see one of the 

cell phone tour signs, dial (801) 216-3811 

and enter the indicated stop number. 

You will hear an interpretive ranger give 

a short synopsis on various aspects of the 

canyon from geology to plants and animals to cave discovery. There is no additional charge to listen to these messages. 

Please be aware that cell phone coverage 

can be spotty and not all providers offer 

service in the park.

Cell Phone Tours

No one ever plans to get hurt on 

vacation, but it does happen. Most 

accidents in American Fork Canyon 

occur while visitors are hiking, biking, 

exploring the mountains, and driving. 

Keep these tips in mind to help ensure 

a safe visit to the park.

 Watch your step. Be prepared: 

wear sturdy shoes and carry 

water, a map, first aid kit, and 

flashlight. Tell someone your plans 

before you go.

Keep your speed down and be 

prepared to stop. Road gravel 

can be loose, especially on 

curves and hills. 

Be careful while walking near 

cliff edges and along the shore. 

Loose gravel and wet rocks 

create dangerous footing, which can 

result in serious falls. Stay away from 

the edge.

Drive safely and wear your 

seatbelt. Be alert for bicyclists 

on the road. It is easy to get 

distracted by scenery pay attention. Do 

not drink and drive.

Remember that your actions can make 

the difference between a happy memory and an unpleasant experience!

Be Safe Out 

There!
6 2009

Timpanogos Reflections

 Replace incandescent bulbs. If every American household replaced just one bulb with 

a compact fluorescent, it would reduce electricity demand by more than 5 gigawatts–the 

average output of five nuclear power plants. For every bulb you replace with a compact 

fluorescent, you will save the equivalent of about 500 pounds of coal over the life of the 

bulb, and you will reduce carbon dioxide by up to 1,000 pounds a year.

 Seal your windows. The amount of energy that escapes through American windows 

every winter is equivalent to all the oil that flows through the Alaska pipeline each year. If 

just 100,000 homeowners installed one storm window, they would keep more than four 

million pounds of carbon dioxide out of the air.

Additional energy saving actions include:

1. Take short showers instead of baths.

2. Turn off all lights when leaving a room.

3. Keep the refrigerator door closed as much as possible.

4. When you are cold, put on a sweater instead of turning up the heat.

5. Turn off the television, computer, and other appliances when they 

are not in use.

6. Recycle glass, paper, and aluminum whenever possible.

7. More difficult but more effective- purchase and operate alternate powered vehicles 

such as electric, hybrids, compressed natural gas or biofueled

8. Better insulate your home and replace inefficient windows and doors.

9. Add solar electric panels, solar hot water, or a wind turbine to your home

merican Fork Canyon provides spectacular recreation and sightseeing opportunities in any season. Use this guide to plan 

your visit to the canyon throughout the year.

 Visit during the “off-season” or those nonsummer months when the canyon is less 

congested, and you will experience a canyon 

in transition. While the cottonwood, aspen, 

and maple leaves change color, wildlife begin 

their annual migration from the highlands to 

wintering grounds. As the leaves begin to scatter to the ground, new snow sweeps into the 

mountains, building a foundation for winter 

recreation. The new snows may conceal trails 

in the high country and provide challenges to 

route finding. Mountain weather during the 

winter changes from day to day, and may even 

change significantly during a single day, beginning with sunny skies and ending in a blustery 

snowstorm.

 After the winter solstice, the days begin to 

lengthen, but winter weather persists with 

snows falling into May. Snow determines 

much of the recreation opportunities in the 

canyon. Hiking trails and campgrounds often 

do not melt out until early summer months. 

In April the days are longer and intermittently spring-like in temperature, melting the 

snow and providing a glimpse into the growing season of summer, with leaves emerging 

in May.

 Summer brings long sunny days, clear blue 

skies, and starry nights. Recreational opportunities abound for camping, hiking, fishing, 

rock climbing, cave tours, and numerous 

other activities. The canyon provides a 

great respite from the heat of the valley with 

many visitors taking advantage of the clean 

mountain air, cool canyon breezes, and shady 

vistas.

A Canyon For All Seasons

 Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of 

camping away from developed 

campgrounds and other campers. 

“Dispersed camping” is the term 

used for camping without Forest 

Service provided amenities, such 

as picnic tables, fire rings, treated 

water or restroom facilities. There 

are many areas in American Fork 

Canyon where visitors can experience dispersed camping. Along 

the North Fork, Cascade Springs 

or Timpooneke roads seem to be 

the most popular locations.

 There are extra responsibilities 

and skills necessary for dispersed 

camping. Please follow these tips 

to have a safe and positive experience for your family and the 

environment.

Choosing a Campsite

• Pick an already established 

“hardened” site. Keep campsites 

small. Camp on bare or compacted soil when possible to avoid 

damaging or killing plants and 

grass.

• Camp, bathe and 

wash dishes at least 100 

feet away from water 

sources.

• Utilize existing roads 

to access campsites. 

It is illegal to damage 

vegetation or other resources driving to and 

from your campsite.

• Observe dispersed 

camping closures. 

Please check with the 

Pleasant Grove Ranger 

Station to find out where you can 

camp.

Campfire Tips

• Use existing fire rings, check for 

fire closures, and never leave your 

campfire unattended.

• Use camp stoves for cooking to 

minimize the use of down wood 

for fuel.

Camp Waste

• Pack out all trash, left over food, 

and litter. There is no garbage service provided in dispersed camp 

areas. Remember your fire ring is 

not a garbage receptacle.

• Camp Bear Safe. Never leave 

food, containers, or garbage unattended in camp.

Respect Your Neighbors

• Keep noise levels down to avoid 

disturbing other campers and 

recreationists in the area. 

Have Fun

• If you follow these tips you can 

have a safe, low impact, primitive camping experience. Thank 

you for helping care for YOUR 

National Forest!

What is Dispersed 

Camping?

Climate Change

The Role of National Parks and Forests

 Today, climate change has become a concern for our way of life. There are many different 

theories within the scientific community about what changes could occur, how they might 

occur, and their effects on wildlife, plant life, and human life. Currently, we are unable to 

predict beyond a reasonable doubt how ecosystems will react and adapt to our forecasted 

warming climate. We do know that climate change has always been a natural cyclic force of 

nature, however the majority of the global scientific community agrees that people’s lifestyles of consumption and demands for natural resources has thrown nature’s cycle out of 

balance thus rapidly speeding up climate warming at an un-natural pace. 

 The lifestyle choices we make now can help protect the ecosystems that make these places 

special for us and generations to come. Your national forests and parks play a role in slowing 

the rate of climate change. One aspect of how natural healthy ecosystems are a vital part of 

this process is the role of forests. During rapid growth stages, trees store massive amounts of 

carbon as they mature. Essentially, forests and other ecosystems are a part of the planet’s air 

filtration system. 

 Read about ways you can help support a healthy planet below:

A

Climate Change and You

Energy saving ideas that you can do now to support 

a healthy planet
7

American Fork Canyon

UTAH’S PUBLIC LANDS

Little Brown Bat

Ground 

Squirrel

Rattle Snake

Black Bear

Great Horned 

Owl

Peregrine 

Falcon

Red Fox

Bighorn 

Sheep

Pika

Porcupine

Animals of American Fork Canyon

Find the underlined names of the animals in the word search

Mule Deer

Timpanogos Cave National Monument and the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National 

Forest offer a variety of Ranger guided activities for everyone from Memorial 

Day to Labor Day. The following programs are just a few examples of what may 

be offered throughout the summer. There are many other programs offered in 

addition to these. All programs are subject to change; please call the Visitor Center at 756-5238 for current information and program topics. 

Ranger Programs

Kid’s 

Page

Q: When is the moon the heaviest?

A: When it’s full!

Q: What did the limestone say to the 

Geologist?

A: Don’t take me for Granite!

Q: What pie can fly?

A: A magpie.

Q: What runs but never walks?

A: A river.

Q: What side of a porcupine is the 

sharpest?

A: The outside!

Funny Bone

Answers:

Where Are The Following Places, Mount Timpanogos, Mutual Dell, Tibble Fork, 

Mineral Basin, Timpanogos Cave, Echo, Aspen Grove, Cascade Springs, Silver 

Lake. American Fork Canyon.

Eye Spy: the color Red, Bicycle, Tent, a Bird, water bottle, and a Picnic Table

Where are the following places?

Unscramble each of these clue words.

Copy the letters in the numbered cells to other cells with the same number.

Hint: Use the map on the last page.

Help Smokey Put 

The Fire Out!

Live Birds of Prey : Get an up close look at some of the birds of prey found in the canyon. 

Nature’s Music in the Canyon: Enjoy an evening of sights and sounds found in the canyon.

Bats! Flying Creatures of the Night: A ranger reveals the truth behind bat myths and folklore.

The Charm of Sssnakes: Get up close and personal with live snakes! 

National Parks: America’s Best Idea: Learn about the history of America’s National Parks.

Minerals: Part of Your Rock Diet: Mineral enthusiasts are invited to join us. 

Singing in the Canyon: Summertime family fun singing round the campfire.

One Whoppin’ Fish Story: Everything you wanted to know about fishing but were afraid to ask. 

Let’s Make Tracks: Read the clues that animals leave behind, and have fun making your own.

Reflections: A History of Mining in American Fork Canyon: Learn about the colorful history of mining.

Wasatch Mountain State Park 

Programs:

Every weekend Memorial Weekend 

through Labor Day Weekend, evening 

programs take place at the campground amphitheater. Junior Ranger 

programs are also offered from May 

through September. For information 

on programs, call the park at (435) 

654-1791 or visit us at www.stateparks.

utah.gov. 

American Fork Canyon

Evening Programs:

Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, & Mondays

7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Programs presented either at 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument Visitor Center, Mutual Dell 

Camp or Swinging Bridge Picnic Area.

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. 

I Spy with my Little Eye 

Canyon Colors, Critters, 

and Common Items from 

the Ground and Sky!
8 2009

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

!@ Information

!9 Campground

!< Dispersed Camping

!5 Picnic Area

!C Trailhead

!Ë Horse Transfer Station

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Uinta National Forest

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Winter Recreation & Travel

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8! Winter Camping

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S Gate - Winter Road Closure Sá Dirt Roads

Paved Roads

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