Mount Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Explore the haunting beauty of three natural limestone caverns connected by man-made tunnels. This National Monument is located on the Alpine Scenic Loop in American Fork Canyon. The cave system is well known for its colorful formations, unique helictites, fault-controlled passages, alpine surroundings, and rich history.
Location
HWY 92 (American Fork Canyon), American Fork, UT 84003
801-756-5238
Accessibility: Can be accessed only by a 1.5-mile hike with a fairly steep grade (trail increases in elevation over 1,000 feet).
Driving time: from downtown Provo approximately 45 minutes
Description
The 1-1/2 mile-long paved trail (1,160 feet elevation gain) to the cave is also a popular attraction. The trail provides spectacular views of the geology and beautiful scenery of the American Fork Canyon.
The man-made Timpanogos Cave system joins three natural caves that contain at least 42 types of cave formations-an unusually large variety. The uniquely colored cave features include unusual combinations of delicate helictites and anthodites in quantities not found in other caves worldwide.
The cave is open from mid-May to mid-October (Tours will be available only on the weekends of Oct. 3-4, 10-11 and 17-18, then the Cave will closed for the 2009 season), weather permitting. A fee to American Fork Canyon is required for use of Forest Service facilities.