Timpanogos Cave

We would be remiss to not talk about the beautiful Timpanogos Cave before we bring you back above ground and wrap up our cave lecture series.

Timpanogos Cave is located in American Fork Canyon, located south of Salt Lake City. The trail to the cave is quite enjoyable in itself. The views of the granite mountains of the Wasatch front are stunning. You will wind your way up to the entrance of the cave. Be prepared for a workout, this hike is considered strenuous. Leave ample time to arrive at the cave entrance for your ranger-led cave tour.

The Timpanogos Cave tour is led by a ranger. You will learn about the different cave-specific rock formations, like cave bacon, stalactites, and stalagmites. The tour lasts nearly an hour, you will learn so much about the geology and history and will leave smarter than when you arrived. Please note, the cave is cool and damp, dress accordingly. 

Difficulty: Strenuous trail leading to the cave. Once in the cave, conditions are more mild, with some stairs and maneuvering around rock formations required.

Trail Stats: 1.5 miles one way to the cave entrance, 1000 feet elevation gain. Once you go through the cave and then go back down to your vehicle, you will have logged 3.5 miles.

Trail Finding: Not a problem, it is very clear where to go.

Conditions: Asphalt trail to get to the cave. Once in the cave, there are stairs and a pavement-type surface.

Would I Repeat This: Absolutely, and we have gone more than once!

Parking: Yes.

Timing: This hike and tour are seasonal and will close when winter hits the mountains. Be sure to check recreation.gov for tickets and availability.

Downloaded Map: Not necessary. 

Fees: You must purchase a ticket to complete the tour. The fee is low, and cost varies based on age. Tickets can be purchased on recreation.gov. Click on the link below for details:

Learn more about the cave tours here:

Trails: There are not many trails in close proximity to the cave. Further up the canyon there are more challenging routes. You will need to pay a fee for recreational use of these areas past the Timpanogos Cave National Monument.