timpanogos cave tour times

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Join the Summer Bucket List

Timpanogos cave national monument: the guide.

Towards the beginning of American Fork Canyon, nestled high on the mountain among the Gambel Oak and Big Tooth Maple, sits Timpanogos Cave National Monument.

Timpanogos Cave National Monument comprises of 3 caves: Hansen Cave, Middle Cave and Timpanogos Cave. Booking a Timpanogos Cave tour provides access to all 3! 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument offers a variety of Cave Tours

Underground Tours: 

Take a ranger guided tour through all 3 caves. The cave tours last for 55 minutes. Learn about cave formations such as stalagmites and stalactites and more! One of the highlights of the tour is seeing the Heart of Timpanogos, a unique cave formation.

Introduction to Caving Tours:

Want a more adventurous experience? Experience what it was like to tour the cave before it became a National Monument. With a ranger, you will hike up a steep trail to the original entrance of Hansen Cave. Then you will take a rope down into the cave.

This tour is only available for visitors 14 and older. Visitors also should be in good shape as this tour is physically demanding.

Digital Cave Tours:

Not able to make it up to the Cave? Skip the drive and hike and view the three caves through a free digital tour. Watch the tour and enjoy the views from the comfort of your home!

Centennial Lantern Tours: 

Step back in time and take a Ranger guided tour with just the light of lanterns! This unique experience is only available for visitors 7 and up! 

To book your cave tours visit the Timpanogos Cave website: https://www.nps.gov/tica/index.htm

The only way to see the caves is through booking a tour and going through the cave with a ranger! 

There are three different cave tours available. The underground cave tour costs $12 per person. The introduction to caving tour costs $22. The centennial lantern tour is $17. 

The hike to Timpanogos Cave is 3 miles roundtrip--1 1/2 miles each way. However, it is steep and strenuous.

The trek up has an elevation gain of 1,097 feet! It is a paved trail. However, strollers and wheeled vehicles are not allowed. 

Although it is a difficult hike up, there are incredible views of American Fork Canyon and the valley along the way. Plus, the tour at the top allows you to catch your breath before the return hike.

Visitors Center:

Timpanogos Cave National Monument has an incredible visitors center. There are fun exhibits that kids will love, including a mini cave to explore! There is a gift shop, cave information and bathrooms. 

This is also where you will check in if you have booked a tour!

Things to know before you go: 

• The cave temperatures stay around 45 degrees. Make sure to bring a jacket for the cave.
• You cannot touch any part of the cave! Please be sure to only stick to the cement or metal pathways and keep your hands to yourself! Touching any part of the cave can ruin formations and stop them from growing!
• Children need to have a ticket to tour the cave. Timpanogos Cave does not allow baby carriers in the cave. You can store them in a box outside the cave.
• They also do not allow large backpacks. You can store them in a box outside the cave.
• The tour time you book is the time you will begin your hike. Your cave tour will start an hour and a half later. You have that time to make the hike up to the cave.
• Plan to spend 3-3 and a half hours for this outing if you are doing the regular underground cave tour.
• Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a great first stop on a drive through the Alpine Loop.
• The Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a truly exciting place to visit! There are lots of opportunities to learn about geology and more! Definitely add it to your Utah Valley Bucket List.

Rebecca Hrabar

Rebecca is a freelance blogger, social media manager and adjunct professor. She runs her own social media travel blog called Utah Family Travels and takes her family on adventures all over Utah. By sharing about her travels she hopes to encourage other families to get outdoors and make memories together! 

• Places To Go
• Parks & Outdoors

Timpanogos Cave

• Weather: Chance Showers And Thunderstorms, 72F

Timpanogos Cave National Monument is located in American Fork Canyon in Utah’s Wasatch Range. It’s home to an extensive cave system that’s made up of three linked and spectacularly decorated caverns. Helictites, stalactites, stalagmites, calcite crusts, draperies and frostwork are just a few of the many dazzling formations found in the chambers of one of the most popular caves in Utah. In order to explore the cave, you need to be a part of a guided tour , which begins after a short hike up to the cave system itself. Here’s everything you need to know to get your adventure underway. 

Guided tours.

First and foremost, you must be a part of a ticketed tour to see the inside of the cave, so be sure to make reservations. While it’s possible to get tickets on a first-come, first-serve basis if there are slots available, the tour is extremely popular and often sells out. Tours are offered daily and last for about three hours. They include 3.1 total miles of hiking to and from the cave and a 55-minute cave tour. Rates for guided tour tickets are as follows:

• Ages 12 and older: $12
• Ages 2 to 11: $7
• Children under 2: $2
• Senior/Access Pass 50% off
• Introduction to Caving Tour $22.00

The cave is typically open May-October, but can close due to weather and trail conditions.

Hiking Trail Overview

Trail Length: 1.5 miles one way

Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,092 feet

Pets: No pets are allowed on the cave trail or in the cave unless it is a service animal

Directions To The Visitor Center: The visitor center and trailhead are in American Fork Canyon, accessed east of I-15 on State Route 92. From I-15, take Exit 284 (Alpine-Highland), turn east towards the mountains on state Route 92, and proceed 10 miles to the monument. By summer, when conditions permit, S.R. 92, the Alpine Loop, re-opens and passes Sundance Mountain Resort before completing the circle around Mount Timpanogos and connecting with U.S. 189 in Provo Canyon. 

GPS Coordinates: 40.440556, -111.709444

Timpanogos Cave Trail Hiking and Cave Information

In order to reach the caves, hikers must first undertake a 1.5-mile walk along a paved trail. This path gains 1,092 vertical feet up to 6,730 feet and it can be scorchingly hot in the summer. Bring plenty of water and don't be surprised if you feel the effects of the higher altitude by huffing and puffing along the way. Many people come just to take in the views and get a good workout without taking the cave tour. 

One cool thing of note: Near the entrance to the cave, you can run your hand over tiny fossilized shells and coral embedded in the smooth Deseret limestone cliff. It’s hard to imagine that at 6,730 feet above sea level, you’re standing on an ancient shoreline. 

Once you head into the cave, you’ll walk through dark passages that link well-lit chambers filled with jagged rock pillars and pylons, many encrusted with the yellow and white runoff of damp particles left behind by dripping trickles of water. The largest rooms are decorated with fangs of niter-encrusted rocks and knobby, gnarly walls. Bats and other critters call the cave home, though many will be peacefully resting during visiting hours. Tour guides are there to answer your questions and explain the geological history of the ancient passageways.

Where to Stay

While there is no Timpanogos Cave camping, the national monument's location in American Fork Canyon on the Alpine Loop means campers have access to both developed campgrounds and primitive camping on the Pleasant Grove Ranger District of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Only minutes away, the cities of Lehi, Orem, and Provo in the Utah Valley abound with hotel and lodging accommodations as well as dining options.

More Things to Know

Wear appropriate footwear and carry water, especially in summer. The park recommends at least one liter of water per person as temperatures reach over 100 degrees on the cave trail in the summer. The inside of the cave is a cool 45 degrees so a light jacket is also recommended for this adventure.

Due to the trail’s steepness, no strollers or wheelchairs or anything else with wheels is allowed on the trail. 

No food or drink is allowed in the cave so be sure to fuel up and rehydrate before you enter. It will be just under an hour before you will have the opportunity to do so again. 

In addition to the cave tour, there are also two picnic areas, a short nature walk, exhibits, and ranger programs you can enjoy within Timpanogos Cave National Monument.

What's Nearby

Deer Creek State Park

Just a short drive from Provo, Park City and Salt Lake City, Deer Creek State Park and Reservoir offers playful summer days filled with boating, fishing and watersports.

Fishing Strawberry Reservoir

Affectionately referred to as “The Berry” by local anglers, Strawberry Reservoir is widely considered to be the top stillwater fishery in Utah — and likely one of the best in the country.

Jordanelle State Park

Heber Valley, UT

Jordanelle State Park is an ideal spot for Utah stand-up paddleboarding but also offers hiking, mountain biking, boating and more. Check it out!

Mount Timpanogos

Mountain goats and their human counterparts feel right at home in the ruggedly beautiful forests and peaks of Mount Timpanogos. The area boasts some of Northern Utah’s top natural treasures, including stunning caverns, waterfalls, lakes and panoramic views.

Provo & Utah Valley

Provo / Utah Valley, UT

Provo and the larger Utah Valley sets itself a part as a place for innovation in tech, health care, education, as well as place for easy access to Provo Canyon's offerings, including Sundance Mountain Resort.

Sundance Mountain Resort

Sundance, UT

Rustic, elegant and handmade are some of the words that capture the feeling of Sundance Mountain Resort. This log cabin-esque skiing resort that Robert Redford built is only an hour from Salt Lake International Airport.

Showing 0 of 0

Keep Timpanogos Cave Forever Mighty

Leave No Trace principles apply to both the cave and the hiking trail. Don't leave any trash behind (including apple cores and orange peels), and refrain from damaging any of the natural structures in the cave. 

Per the NPS, caves are sensitive environments and exploration of the cave should only be done on guided tours. To help curb the spread of White Nose Syndrome affecting bats, you are not allowed to wear any clothing or shoes or bring any gear that has been in another mine or cave at any time. 

How To Travel Responsibly

Discover More

Previous Group Next Group

11 More Utah Winter Experiences Outside the Ski Resorts

Written By Matador

6 minute read

No matter your level of adventure, you will find good reason to save some time for a day away from the resort.

11 Utah Scenic Byways for Leaf Peeping

Written By Visit Utah

7 minute read

Explore 11 Scenic Drives in Utah for some serious leaf peeping. Utah is one of the best places to see fall foliage, visit great attractions, events and festivals.

A Sweet-Tooth’s Guide to Downtown Provo

3 minute read

We’ve set out on a walk in search of Provo's best treats. We were not disappointed.

A Utah Ski Vacation (or Two) for Less

Written By Paula Colman

Shop for ski gear like a local. Get discounts on lift tickets. Learn everything you need to know for a cheap luxury ski trip.

Best Après Ski Bars in Park City and Beyond

Written By Austen Diamond

Want to master the art of après? Here’s your guide to the best après-ski bars in Park City and the Wasatch Front.

Chasing Waterfalls in Utah Valley

Written By Matcha

Waterfalls are one of nature’s most spectacular shows, and Utah Valley offers more viewable waterfalls than any other Utah area. Even more enticing? They’re a quick road trip and easy hike away from the Wasatch Front. Check out the 8 best waterfalls in Utah Valley and prepare to be amazed.

Cultural Cuisines Find New Homes in Provo

Written By Annie Hartvigsen

Families share their heritage and culture in charming downtown Provo where restaurants showcase food from around the globe.

Discover the Breweries of the Wasatch Front

5 minute read

Over the past two decades, Salt Lake’s breweries have grown into a culture all their own. Here’s what you need to start planning a pub crawl with this collection of Salt Lake’s most popular breweries.

Eat Your Way Through Utah

Utah is filled with festivals that highlight the state’s agricultural products, local brewers, winemakers and other creators of delicious dishes. You’ll find festivals and events featuring all kinds of agricultural products all over Utah, but here are 10 of the best to sample what the state has to offer.

Eating Up Mount Timpanogos

Written By David Vogel

Learn about the Utah farms near Mt. Timpanogos that produce luscious lettuce and artisan cheese. Make your own plans to “eat up” Mt. Timpanogos!

Finding Solitude on the Provo River

Get expert advice on Provo River fishing, recreation and relaxation. Add the Provo River to your next Utah itinerary!

Hike + Dine: Provo

Written By Arianna Rees

Here are a few of Provo, Utah's best hiking trails and eateries to check out during your next visit.

How to Visit Utah’s Most-Visited Forest

Written By Brett Prettyman

The Wasatch Front mountain range offers endless amounts of recreational activity. Learning how to visit responsibly will enhance your overall experience.

Movies Filmed in Utah: Plotting a Cinematic Drive-Through

Written By Andrea David

Follow a Germany-based film enthusiast on an extended road trip to discover the rich history of Utah cinematography.

Must-See Panoramic Views at Utah Ski Resorts

Written By Jill Robinson

Utah forecaster Evan Thayer has seen it all on Utah’s slopes. Here are some of the breathtaking places he keeps going back to again and again that combine incredible scenery on top of the mountain with Utah’s renowned downhill.

Snowfield and Stream

The ski lift may be closer, but the Provo River, one of the best fisheries in Utah and the country, is mere minutes down the road from Sundance Mountain Resort.

State Park Stargazing: Interacting With the Galaxy in Real Time

Written By Whitney Childers

Northern Utah's Camp Floyd State Park offers more than history to those who stick around after dark. With intense dark skies blanketing the atmosphere, stargazers of all ages gather to interact with the galaxy above.

Supporting Women Entrepreneurs While Traveling in Utah

Women entrepreneurs in Utah have been particularly successful at honing their expertise. Find out about women-owned businesses you can support while adventuring in Utah.

The Best Skiing in Utah

Out of 15 ski resorts, here's where families, friends groups, experts, luxury seekers and even night owls find their groove in Utah.

Utah’s Factory-to-Slope Culture

Utah’s gear scene benefits from being able to use its backyard as a testing ground, making the complete ski and snowboard cycle uniquely Utah

Where to See Women's Art in Utah

Written By Ashley Mae Hoiland

There’s no shortage of art galleries in Salt Lake City and across Utah's Wasatch Front. Beyond the major metropolitan areas, there are also small artist communities across the state where artists seeking a slower pace have flocked for decades. Here are a few recommendations for where you can experience art in Utah.

Why You Should Ditch I-15 on Your Way to Zion

Written By Melissa McGibbon

If you’re not in a rush to get to Zion National Park from Northern Utah, consider taking a long, meandering route that features historic sites, adventure breaks and out-of-this-world scenery. Hop off I-15 and take Highway 89 and four nearby scenic byways to see and do as much as you possibly can on your way to Zion.

Year-round Vibrance on the Nebo Loop Byway

2 minute read

A National Scenic Byway that Enchants at High Elevations, by Road or Trail

Your Guide to Utah's Best Hot Springs

Here’s a quick guide to planning your visit to Utah’s best hot springs. The fun goes beyond sitting and soaking — you’ll find waterslides, paddleboard yoga, camping and music festivals that turn a quick visit into a weekend worth of fun.

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

Do your part by planning ahead

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect.

• Learn About the Park
• News Releases

News Release

Timpanogos cave national monument cave tours will open june 14.

Contact: Annie Brantley , 385-287-4283

After much anticipation, Timpanogos Cave National Monument is thrilled to announce the reopening of our cave tours for summer 2024. Starting June 14, 2024, adventurers of all ages will once again have the opportunity to delve into the mesmerizing depths of Timpanogos Cave National Monument. 

Our dedicated team along with construction contractors have worked tirelessly to clear snow, rocks and trees from the cave trail and to enhance the trail’s safety by repairing and replacing pieces of the “rock curtain” which is located on the cliff above the trail, catching and reducing rockfall onto the trail below. 

“Our staff has spent the past two months patching up trail damage, repairing the cave lights and restoring safety systems to get the park ready for summer,” said Shannon Stephens, Park Manager. "We are looking forward to welcoming back visitors to explore the wonders of the Timpanogos Cave system."  

In our ongoing commitment to conservation and preservation, please note that the cave trail above the gate and cave tours will be temporarily closed from June 26 to June 28, 2024. During this time, our team will be conducting essential preservation projects aimed at safeguarding the delicate ecosystem of the cave and its inhabitants. 

Tickets for the cave tours can be purchased online at www.recreation.gov . We encourage all visitors to book in advance to secure their spot and avoid disappointment. Cave tour fees are $12 (age 12 +), $7 (age 2-11), and $2 (age 1 and under). Historical Lantern Tour are $17 for people and limited to ages 7 years old and up. Details regarding these and other tours including ticket purchases, tour schedules, and other programs are available on the park website at www.nps.gov/tica . 

For more information see www.nps.gov/tica 

Last updated: June 12, 2024

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

2038 W. Alpine Loop Road American Fork, UT 84003

(801)756-5239

Stay Connected

How to Visit Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Last Updated on February 24, 2024 by Grant

Established in 1922, Timpanogos Cave National Monument preserves three caves located high up above the canyon floor on Mt. Timpanogos. Located on the outskirts of the Salt Lake City metropolitan area, visitors will find it easy to get to the park. Getting to the cave, well that’s another story. 

If you’re going to visit a national park site that preserves a cave, you probably want to actually do a cave tour. Here, at Timpanogos Cave National Monument, that requires a 1.5-mile hike with a 1,092 foot elevation gain. It’s not exactly an easy hike! You’ll also need reservations for your cave tour.

As Grant found out when he first tried to visit in 1998, you can’t just swing by this park because you saw a sign. You’ll likely need to reserve a cave tour in advance. And you definitely need to prepare yourself, both mentally and physically, for the hike up to the cave entrance.

Whether you have a fascination with caves, are interesting in visiting all the national park sites or just love a grueling high-elevation hike, read on for everything you need to know about visiting Timpanogos Cave National Monument.

(Disclaimer: When we link to places where you can buy our stuff or places we stayed, we are using special codes that earn us commissions on the sales at no additional cost to you. Please see our  Review Policy   for more information.)

The History of the Caves

Timpanogos Cave National Monument actually preserves three caves, all connected by tunnels. You will explore all three with a cave tour. In 1887, Martin Hansen discovered the first cave, appropriately named Hansen Cave. 

Unfortunately, he not only offered cave tours but allowed visitors to take “souvenirs” from the cave. For this reason, Hansen Cave really is not all that impressive as many of the interesting formations no longer exist. Still, it’s a good introduction to the caves and certainly a different environment than the one right outside the entrance!

The namesake Timpanogos Cave actually was discovered twice. A couple of teenagers first discovered the cave in 1915. The two families decided to keep it a secret hoping to mine the cave. In fact, they even hid the entrance behind a bunch of rocks. Thankfully, word got out and, eventually, there was a big push to find this “lost cave.”

In 1921, an outdoor club rediscovered Timpanogos Cave and, soon after, Middle Cave. The following year, in 1922, President Harding established Timpanogos Cave National Monument, preserving all three caves for future exploration and enjoyment.

Planning a Visit to Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Some parts of Timpanogos Cave National Monument are open year-round. However, the visitor center and cave tours are only open in the summer, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Cave tours are offered throughout the day and require about a three-hour commitment, including the hike to the cave entrance and the cave tour.

Typically, the park offers several different cave tours. In 2021, the park is only doing basic cave tours, due to COVID-19. Honestly, this is the main tour that most visitors will want. Check the park website for other possible tours and information.

Your tour time is actually the time that you will check in at the visitor center and start your hike. The actual cave tour will be 1.5 hours after that. If you think you’ll need more than 1.5 hours for the hike, be sure to check in and start hiking early!

The Hike to the Cave

Yes, the hike to the cave really does require about 1,100 feet of elevation gain in 1.5 miles! 

Grant and I are no strangers to moderately strenuous hikes. I’ll be honest, though, we typically don’t do a lot of strenuous hikes, especially hikes involving a lot of elevation gain. But, we figured if we were visiting a park that preserves a cave, we should actually tour the cave. And, well, the only way to do that is to hike up to the cave entrance!

Check out our 10 essentials for hiking here .

Originally, we scheduled a tour at about 1 p.m., thinking it’d be great to be inside the cave during the heat of the day. Once we realized that actually meant hiking at 1:00 and that the temperatures were forecast to be near 100 degrees that day, we changed our tour to 10:15 a.m. Wow, are we glad that we were able to get our tickets changed!

We started our hike at about 9:30, which was 45 minutes early. We figured we wanted time to take it easy and take pictures along the way. Also, anything we could do to beat the heat was worth it. At that time, we were hiking mostly in the shade, as the sun had not yet made it over the mountain. Thankfully, we also found many more trees than I expected along the route.

The hike is not easy by any means. But it is paved which makes it not quite as bad. You’ll find benches and shaded areas along the way. There are also a few interesting exhibits. And the views are fantastic! Just make sure you carry plenty of water and rest when needed and it’ll all be worth it in the end.

What if You’re Early (or Late)?

We actually made it up to the cave about 45 minutes before our scheduled tour time. Since we started hiking early, we expected this and were prepared to just wait for our tour time. Thankfully, there was room on an earlier tour so we didn’t have to wait too long.

Of course, we can’t promise that will happen. But, the rangers were very nice and accommodating. If you arrive early or late, I’d expect that they will do what they can to get you on a tour as soon as possible. 

That said, if you aren’t used to strenuous hikes, I’d certainly give yourself extra time. And it’s certainly not worth pushing yourself too much and overdoing it on the way up. Seriously, it’s better to be late and miss the tour than end up in the hospital!

The Cave Tour

The tour starts in Hansen Cave, then moves to Middle Cave and, finally, Timpanogos Cave. The exit is a different location than the entrance. 

As you move through the three caves, you’ll have to bend over and crouch down to avoid brushing up again the delicate cave formations. There also are a few stairs and uneven surfaces that you’ll have to walk over during the tour. I’d image that if you survived the trek up, you’ll be able to handle this. Everyone has different capabilities, though, so talk to a ranger if you think you might not have the flexibility needed for this tour.

Read our tips for visiting a National Park Service cave here.

If you have limited mobility, the first room of the tour is fairly easy to enter and view. Talk to a ranger to see if there are any other options.

Throughout the tour you’ll see a wide variety of cave formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, flowstone, popcorn and, our favorite, cave bacon! Also, be prepared for the ranger to turn out the lights at some point on the tour. While the tour route is generally well lit, it’s always fun to be in the absolute darkness when all the lights are out!

You won’t find any super unique formations (like the boxwork at Wind Cave National Park ) but it is still an interesting tour. And, if you’re new to exploring caves, you’ll certainly learn a lot! We also liked hearing the details about the discovery of the caves and the people who found them.

What to Carry

We always suggest that you carry the Ten Essentials when out on a hike. Since this particular hike is very well marked, with lots of other people, you won’t necessarily need all of the ten essentials, but there are a few things you should certainly carry.

First and foremost, carry plenty of water. The rangers suggest a minimum of 32 ounces of water per person. Honestly, I went through about 2.5 liters of water (about 85 ounces). I think Grant only drank about 2 liters of water. It’s definitely better to have too much than not enough water! There are water filling stations at the visitor center (bottom of the trail) but there is no water at the top. Carry what you need for the hike up and down.

You’ll also want some sort of sun protection. I suggest a hat, sunscreen and, perhaps, a long-sleeve sun shirt. This is particularly important if you are hiking in the afternoon when the sun is NOT behind the mountain.

Finally, you’ll want a jacket or fleece for the cave tour. The cave is roughly 45 degrees inside. Yes, this will feel amazing when you first step in. After a while, though, you’ll need that extra layer to keep you comfortable! In fact, about halfway through the tour, my legs started getting cold.

Depending on the time of your tour, you may also want some snacks. No, you can’t eat in the cave but you can eat on the trail. If you anticipate arriving early, you may also want a book or something to pass the time. Just a heads up – we did NOT have cell service (AT&T) for the majority of the hike. 

Other Things to Do at Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Before or after your hike, I certainly suggest a quick stop at the Visitor Center. Honestly, this is one of the smallest visitor centers we’ve seen but there are a few exhibits on the history of the area that are worth a look. You can also buy a couple of souvenirs to commemorate your strenuous hike up to the cave!

If you want a short extra hike, check out the 1/2-mile Canyon Nature Trail  across the street from the Visitor Center. This short trail does have a little bit of elevation gain but, overall, is very easy. You’ll see a variety of plants along the way. There’s even a viewing spot to see the cave entrance way up on the mountainside.

At the far end of the nature trail is the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area. This is a small but nice picnic spot with several shaded tables. This is a great spot for lunch before or after your cave tour.

The surrounding area has a few other longer hikes and scenic drives. Check out the information at the Visitor Center if you have more time and want to explore the area.

Check out our article on visiting the Utah National Parks.

Final Thoughts on Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Located in the greater Salt Lake City area, Timpanogos Cave National Monument is an easy park to find. That said, you’ll need to book your cave tour in advance. Reservations open 30 days in advance, on recreation.gov .

There are plenty of options for hotels, restaurants and other things to do in the area. As usual, we always recommend Hilton properties .

Book a Hilton Hotel | Read TripAdvisor Reviews

We actually camped while we were in the area. Unfortunately, we can’t necessarily recommend the campground we stayed at.

Since the park only offers cave tours in the summer, we suggest booking your tour as early in the day as you can. Temperatures can be in the mid-upper 90s or even hotter in Salt Lake City in the summer. A strenuous hike in those temperatures can be downright dangerous. If you must do a tour in the afternoon, take extra water and give yourself plenty of time to make it to the top.

As you might expect, the hike down will be quite a bit easier and faster (it took us about half as long to hike down). That said, the steep downhill was a little tough on my knees.

While this is not a hike that should be done without preparation it, honestly, wasn’t as bad as I expected it to be. And the cave tour at the top certainly made it worth it!

Travel Resources

What do you use to find a flight.

We use Skyscanner to find deals on flights. Skyscanner has a great interface and compares tons of airlines for the best pricing and routing. That said, it does not always have every airline and some airlines will have better deals on their website. Still, Skyscanner is a great place to start. Click here to search for a flight.

What do you use to find a hotel?

We typically stay at Hilton properties , so we use the Hilton website . You can find good Hilton Honors discounts or AAA discounts for a hotel there. We make great use of our free night certificates from our Hilton Honors American Express. Click here to book a Hilton property.

If there are no Hilton properties available, we use TripAdvisor to read reviews and book the hotel. We find we can get the best price that way. Click here to search for a hotel.

We recently partnered with Stay22 to add interactive maps to each of our destination posts. This will allow you to see a plethora of hotels and vacation rentals all in one responsive map of the area.

What if I need more space than I can get at a hotel?

We use Vrbo for the times when we have rented a cabin for a weekend getaway, like this cabin in Townsend, TN , or needed to rent a house for a large family vacation. We had a great experience with them in terms of refunding deposits when COVID hit and will continue to use them. Click here to search for a vacation rental.

Who do you use for rental cars?

As a general rule, we book with Hertz for rental cars. We have had nothing but good experiences with them. Plus, we really like unlimited mileage and not worrying about crossing state lines. We have even rented from Hertz overseas in both Slovenia and Croatia . Click here to book a rental car.

How about booking a cruise?

We have found some amazing prices for booking a cruise through Cruise Direct . We have saved a lot of money on our cruises compared to what we found elsewhere, making a last-minute Bahamas cruise even cheaper. Click here to book a cruise.

What if I want to rent an RV?

We highly recommend Outdoorsy for RV rentals. We rented a camper van for a week to visit Rocky Mountain National Park for the elk rut and Custer State Park for the Buffalo Round-Up and had a blast. The program was easy to use and we really enjoyed the freedom of having a camper van for that trip. Click here to rent an RV.

What do you use for booking tours?

We don’t often book tours. Typically, we like to do stuff on our own. That said, there are some experiences you can’t have any other way. So, when we do want to book a tour, we always check Viator first. Click here to book a tour.

Do you use anything to get discounts on the road?

We make extensive use of both Good Sam and AAA on the road. Good Sam is normally regarded as a discount card for RVers at campgrounds and Camping World but anyone can use the 5 cents off a gallon at the pump at both Pilot and Flying J. Click here to get a Good Sam membership. We have had AAA as long as we have been married and it has more than paid for itself in discounts at hotels, aside from the peace of mind of having roadside assistance. Add in paper maps and the ability to get an international driver’s license and it is more than worth it for any traveler out there. Click here to get a AAA membership.

2 thoughts on “How to Visit Timpanogos Cave National Monument”

Wonderful photos! I’ve been to Timpanogos Cave National Monument a couple of times, but it was before 1998! At that time, you really could just swing by and visit the cave without a reservation. From the your photos, it looks like a few things have been upgraded on the trail and right at the entrance to the cave since my last visit. The inside looks the same, though!

Yes, it’s a very steep climb to the top! We were put in our place as we huffed and puffed to the top by a lively group of cub scouts who raced right by us like it was nothing.

Thanks so much!

Yes, that trail is steep but we took it slow and made it just fine… That said, we are well pas the age where youth passing us on the trail bothers us!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

I accept the Privacy Policy

• © Roadtrippers
• © Mapbox
• © OpenStreetMap
• Improve this map

Timpanogos Cave National Monument Tours

• Independent

Overview: NOTICE: You must stop at the visitor center before starting your hike to the cave. The Cave Tour Time you select begins at the visitor center, NOT at the cave entrance. The Timpanogos Cave System is accessed by hiking a strenuous 1.5 mile paved trail with an elevation gain of 1,100 vertical feet. ALL visitors are required to have a ticket, including infants. Located high on the steep rocky slopes of American Fork Canyon in the shadow of Mt. Timpanogos in Utah's Wasatch Range are three limestone caves: Hansen Cave, Middle Cave and Timpanogos Cave. These exquisite caverns are decorated with an elaborate display of helictites, anthodites and other formations in a variety of colors. Timpanogos Cave National Monument preserves these caves and their fragile underground wonders for you and for future generations to enjoy. Explore an underground world: Taste the thrill of caving as you twist and bend to enter beautifully decorated rooms. Learn the science behind formations and hear fascinating stories of discovery as you journey through natural passageways. After completing the hike, visitors will experience all three caves on a ranger-led tour. The route through the cave is paved, lighted and has several flights of stairs. Summary of Fees: Timpanogos Cave Tour Name Adult (16+) Junior (6-15) Child (3-5) Infant (2 and under) Cancellations* Cave Tour $8.00 $6.00 $4.00 $0.00 $0.75 Tour Name Adult (16+) Junior (14+) Child (3-5) Infant (2 and under) Cancellations* Introduction to Caving Tour $16.00 $16.00 n/a n/a $0.75 *Customers may request changes at no cost or cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour. Cancellations must be made by calling 1-877-444-6777. Customers who cancel within 24 hours and no-shows will forfeit the tour fee

• Most Helpful
• Highest Rated
• Lowest Rated

Be the first to add a review to the Timpanogos Cave National Monument Tours.

Problem with this listing? Let us know .

Has RV parking changed? Let us know .

• Unavailable Parking
• Unknown Pets Allowed
• Unknown Restrooms
• Unknown Wifi
• Unknown Wheelchair Accessible
• Unknown Credit Cards Accepted
• Unavailable Sites

Nearby Hotels

Click to discover a great deal!

Related Trip Guides

Pay tribute and reflect at these us monuments and memorials, the ultimate road trip guide to canyonlands national park, how to best experience zion national park, road trip to the filming locations of 'dumb and dumber', keep exploring with the roadtrippers mobile apps..

Anything you plan or save automagically syncs with the apps, ready for you to hit the road!

Connect with us and hit up #roadtrippers

Tall tales, trip guides, & the world's weird & wonderful.

• Roadpass Digital
• Mobile Apps

Business Tools

• Partnerships

Get Inspired

• Road trip ideas by state
• National parks
• Famous routes
• Voices from the Road

Fresh Guides

• The ultimate guide to Mammoth Cave National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Badlands National Park
• Route 66 Leg 2: St. Louis to Tulsa
• Route 66 Leg 1: Chicago to St. Louis
• Route 66 Leg 3: Tulsa to Amarillo
• Top 10 things to do in Ohio
• Offbeat Road Trip Guides
• Road Trip USA
• Scenic Routes America
• National Park Road Trips
• Terms and Conditions

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

• Posted in Hikes / National Monuments
• Updated May 3, 2023

Timpanogos Cave National Monument is an adventure that everyone from Utah Valley should definitely do at least once in their life. We have visited this cave a few times, even with children as young as 3 years old, and we always have a lot of fun.  Here are several pieces of information to help you plan your trip.

Timpanogos Cave is not easily accessible. The trail is very steep and strenuous. The hike up to the cave is only about 1.5 miles, but it is pretty much straight up the mountainside. Our oldest, who is an excellent hiker for a 6 year-old, made the entire trek, and even carried the heavy backpack much of the way. He didn’t complain at all. Our youngest, who is 3, did about half of the hiking and Dad carried him the rest of the way. Make sure that before undertaking this adventure that you have enough stamina to make this climb. We recommend 5 and up, unless your kids have hiked quite often before this.

Steep Drop Offs

The trail is pretty treacherous. There is a steep drop-off to one side of the trail and no railing for the majority of the hike. A few years ago, a hiker actually died on this trail. Little children must not run and should stay to the inside of the trail. If you’re one of those people who like the little ones to run free while you talk to your pals, this hike is not for you. Parents must be vigilant and aware of little ones– holding hands, at all times.

Timpanogos Cave National Monument sells tour tickets online now. You can make reservations 30 days in advance up to 1 hour before the tour. After that, the online window closes, and any extra tickets are sold at the Visitor Center. There are usually no extra tickets, so we highly recommend buying tickets online. Walk-ups have a wait of 1-2 hours on most summer days, or no chance of visiting at all. You can visit the park service website for more information here .

The tickets are the time to begin your hike up the mountainside. So if you purchase 9 am tickets, this is when you pick them up at the Visitor Center and start on the trail.

What to Take

You should pack plenty of water. This hike can extremely hot in the summer, and the rangers berated the people in front of us for taking “one tiny water bottle.” So make sure to take lots of water for everyone to stay hydrated.

The temperature inside the cave is only 46 degrees all year long. I thought it felt wonderful after that hot hike. We took jackets for the kids and mom, and our 3 year-old was still freezing in the cave. Bring appropriate jackets or layers for those in your family who will need it.

Wear good shoes . You will want comfortable shoes for hiking, but also shoes that will keep you steady while walking through the cave. It can be a little bumpy inside.

Junior Ranger Program

There is a Junior Ranger program at Timp Cave and the rangers are awesome. Our boys spent the hour we were waiting doing the activity booklet. Just ask for a Junior Ranger booklet at the Visitor Center. There were 5 things that every child has to do to complete the program: tour the cave, complete the booklet pages for the child’s age, take a pledge to protect our parks, ask a ranger how he/she spends their time, and pick up trash.

Junior Ranger booklets always have leveled pages, so younger children don’t ned to complete as much as the older kids. We always help our littlest kids write until they are in school. Our teenager still enjoys completing the Junior Ranger program because it helps us all learn about the park we are visiting, and he loves earning a badge/patch.

The tour through the cave lasts about an hour inside the cave. The rangers are very knowledgeable and give great information about the history of the cave, as well as the geological features of the cave. This cave is narrow and small compared to some caves in the US, but it is still a neat cave to explore. It is very dark inside the cave, so make sure to consider children’s reactions in small spaces or the dark.

Timpanogos Cave Tours are only offered from May-October in good weather.

Special Events

The cave has special events. They offer different classes and programs all the time. Check out their monthly calendar here . We have tried the fishing program through Timpanogos Cave, and absolutely loved it! Our boys all caught fish, and we had fun chatting with the rangers. So make sure to take advantage of the fun programs at Timp Cave.

Last Thought

Our boys that have been 5 and older when visiting Timpanogos Cave National Monument love this adventure. For our younger children, the day becomes too long and strenuous on them. Plan on about 4-5 hours on the mountain, including the hike, the cave tour, the Junior Ranger program, and anything else you might end up doing. We see many children make the trek, but our recommendation is for ages 5 and older.

If you have some extra time, we also recommend visiting the Canyon Nature Trail , which is just across the street from Timpanogos Cave. It is a fun trail by the river with a few bridges. We always like this easy hike.

If you visit Timpanogos Cave National Monument, the fee to American Fork Canyon is waived. Make sure to tell them at the booth. But if you plan to do other adventures in the canyon, please pay the day use fee or use your national parks pass. These fees help keep our canyons looking beautiful.

Share my adventures Share this content

• Opens in a new window X
• Opens in a new window Facebook
• Opens in a new window Pinterest

You Might Also Like

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Klondike Gold Rush | Seattle

The Great Stone Face

Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park

Ashton Gardens | Thanksgiving Point

Red Fleet and Steinaker State Park

Leave a reply cancel reply, this post has 7 comments.

Wow! I’ve never seen the railing! AWESOME!!! I’m always so afraid my kids are going to roll down the mountainside. I’m glad they finally put that up.

Thanx for the info on the tickets, as well. It’s changed since we’ve been there so I appreciate the update.

Will you post more about the Jr Ranger program? I read about it earlier this month, but didn’t quite understand how it all works. Any info would be great! Thanx!

Good to know my kids are definitely not ready for this hike. Glad you guys made it.

I just found your blog and love the ideas you give. I’m glad you posted about the hike to Timpanogas because since it is such a tough hike I don’t think it would work well for our 4 kids<6years. Thank you!

Live and Let Hike

An incomplete guide to hiking California, Utah, Virginia, and beyond

Timpanogos Cave Trail & Cave Tour (Timpanogos Cave National Monument, UT)

Nestled high above American Fork Canyon in northern Utah ’s Wasatch Range, three limestone caves —connected today by man-made tunnels—are the prime attractions of Timpanogos Cave National Monument , a popular park in the Salt Lake City/Provo area. Discovered around the turn of the 20 th century, the three caves were placed under federal protection in 1922 and can now be explored as part of an hour-long guided cave tour . But there is a hitch: not only are reservations often required to secure your spot on the tour, but reaching the cave system requires a 1.4-mile one-way hike, gaining nearly 1,100 feet in elevation. At the end of the trail, hikers are greeted by a park ranger, who regulates timed entry to the three caves.

While the hot daytime temperatures and relentless ascent leave many visitors sweating and out of breath, entry to the marvelous caves gives hikers new life: inside is a cool (average 45 degrees) and wet wonderland of colorful stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, cave popcorn, and many other common features of a limestone cavern environment. The ranger-guided tours are informative and well worth the price of admission ($12), and the out-and-back trail includes outstanding views down American Fork Canyon to Utah Valley. Budget at least 3-3.5 hours for the round-trip journey, including the cave tour.

Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a short drive from the major metropolis of Salt Lake City and nearby Provo and located about two miles up the popular drive known as the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway . Entering from the west, visitors heading only to the cave can bypass the entrance station at the mouth of American Fork Canyon. ( Note: However, visitors who seek to recreate elsewhere along the 20-mile drive should pay the $6 entrance fee —or present an America the Beautiful national park pass. ) Parking at the monument can be tight, but the steady flow of visitors in and out of the area generally yields availability most of the day.

Visitors without a cave tour reservation can try to acquire one at the Visitor Center , while all others can present their online tickets via smartphone at the base of the Timpanogos Cave Trail . Hikers have 1 ½ hours to complete the 1.4-mile trail to the cave entrance (the start time on your ticket denotes when one should begin hiking), which should be plenty of time for most visitors. Being a very popular trail for visitors of all ages, there are several benches and “fitness checkpoints” along the way to assist with the challenging climb. The path is also paved and without steps the entire way—but the significant incline prevents the Timpanogos Cave Trail from being wheelchair-accessible.

Before departing, check in with the ranger outside for a security briefing, in which visitors are encouraged to bring plenty of water and to be on the lookout for rattlesnakes and rockfalls. The latter are a common occurrence along the route: look for yellow and red lines lining the middle of the trail, marking sections where you should not stop and congregate due to heightened rockfall risk.

The frequent crowds—including both cave tourists and locals who use the hike as a regular fitness challenge—make the Timpanogos Cave Trail far from a solitary experience. But the nature around you is splendid: the hike ascends through more than a half-dozen rock layers, and the ubiquitous flora—including Douglas fir, Boxelder maple, Rocky Mountain juniper, and Gambel oak—provide some decent shade even on a hot day. The views down into American Fork Canyon and Utah Valley improve as you climb, with several nice overlooks along the way.

Timpanogos Cave Trail (1.4 mi. to cave entrance)

The trail to the caves begins past the hike information sign, ringing the parking lot for a short while before cutting back left and rising through a dense thicket of firs. After a second switchback, the route settles into its westerly tread and rises alongside the first of several rockfalls—don’t stop during the sections marked by red and yellow lines, painted onto the asphalted trail. The beginnings of the hike lie in the multihued rock layer known as the Mutual Formation, an amalgam of sandstones, shales, and quartzite deposited some 600 million years ago. Just past the first apparent rock slide (hemmed in by a retaining wall), hikers pass under a black and orange cliff that is characteristic of this layer.

At about 2/10 mile, hikers reach the first of several “fitness checkpoints,” spots to stop for a drink of water or perhaps rest on a trailside bench. From here the path immediately courses around a left-hand bend. A minute later, the route cuts left again at a hairpin turn, and an information wayside discusses the local geology, outlining the nine rock layers that compose this section of the broader Mount Timpanogos (11,752’), a behemoth that is the ninth-highest peak in Utah and second-highest in the Wasatch Range.

From here the trail proceeds up a right-hand switchback, then edges along rock faces to the first of two tunnels, at about 4/10 mile. A few steps beyond, there is a bench and a nice overlook with views down American Fork Canyon toward Utah Valley and Provo. Hikers are now about one-quarter of the way to the cave entrance.

Soon the Timpanogos Cave Trail leaves the Mutual Formation behind and rises into the Tintic Quartzite, a largely chalky-colored layer composed of sand deposited along a shallow sea around 540 million years ago.

Pass through a second tunnel at around ½ mile, then take in the view at the overlook with two waysides—one on past mining and another on the slanted quartzite cliffs. One can see the remains of old mining roads and structures along the opposite wall of the canyon. Many of the early European settlers of the area sought to tap the various ores of the Wasatch Range, although the difficulty of transport stunted the emergence of large mining operations.

The views improve as the trail rises further, weaving in and out of steep drainages and approaching the second “fitness checkpoint” at 6/10 mile. From here the trail enters the Ophir Formation, a grayish layer of siltstone and shale. After passing under a high rock wall of Ophir, the bedrock changes again, this time to Maxfield Limestone. But this does not last long as the rocks change yet again, settling on the slightly thicker Fitchville Formation. Here there lies an “unconformity”—a break in the geological record where some known layers are conspicuously missing.

It is another 1/10 mile to the next layer—the Gardison Limestone—as well as an abrupt left-hand bend, a bench, and the final “fitness checkpoint.” Hikers are over halfway to the cave entrance by this point.

Thereafter, the Timpanogos Cave Trail ascends five sunny switchbacks and passes the one-mile mark. After a partly exposed section with hand railings (not necessary but available), the trail passes another bench and two additional waysides, including one on local tree varieties. It is a short walk from here to the trail junction at 1.3 miles, where the route from the cave exit comes in from the left. Bear right, continuing up toward the cavern entrance.

Rising ever higher, the onward path rounds two more switchbacks and passes a pit toilet on the left. At some point the trail passes into the Deseret Limestone layer (where the cave is located) and edges upward to a tunnel and finally the covered waiting platform for cave tours. Just beyond is the cave entrance—with a locked door opened only by the rangers—and an area called “ The Grotto ,” a partly covered area where there is bench seating and a detailed map of the cave system.

Cave Tour (0.3 miles)

Here one waits for the start of the Cave Tour : early arrivers may be able to jump on an earlier tour if available, but the ranger-guided walks are limited to 16 people each. The modern cave entrance is a modest passage, with two steel doors, situated just under the oblong-shaped natural entrance above. The first small room, where attendees are given a short security briefing again (the upshot: don’t touch anything in the caves!), is the most likely spot to view Townsend’s Big Eared Bats, the local variety of Chiroptera (but don’t count it – sightings are relatively rare).

After shutting a second door behind you, the tour makes a brief foray through Hansen Cave , which was the first of the three caves discovered. Mormon pioneer and local logger Martin Hansen discovered the cave while following mountain lions tracks in October 1887; he went on to explore the length of the cave and offered tours of the site for a handful of years before they were no longer profitable.

The cave runs west from here for about a football field’s length, but the standard tour covers only a portion of it. The entry chamber, known as the Organ Pipe Room , features a relatively high ceiling and nice examples of flowstone—a calcite-studded terrace formed from water running through the cavern’s mineral deposits.

Time in Hansen Cave is very brief, with visitors quickly ushered through a set of doors marking the transition into the next cave. Given the close proximity of Hansen, Middle, and Timpanogos Caves (and awkward natural entrances of the three caverns), the National Park Service found it easier to connect them via man-made tunnels.

The tunnel eventually gives way to a long but narrow passage that is entirely natural, the result of a fault line running through Middle Cave , the second cavern on the hike. Duck your head as the protruding cave walls ebb and flow, and then pass over a shallow pool known as Middle Cave Lake .

Several smaller examples of stalactites, stalagmites, and columns can be found in Middle Cave, but the headliner is the aptly-named Big Room , where the tour stops for a decent while. Here the calcite walls erupt in an elaborate display of flowstone.

Adjacent to the Big Room is another area called Coral Gardens , which features impressive stalactites and extensive cave popcorn. The smooth surface of the floor is evidence of a recently-dried pool.

After Coral Gardens, the tour proceeds downhill through two doors and the Timpanogos Tunnel, another man-made passage connecting Middle Cave with the largest and most impressive Timpanogos Cave . This final cave was first discovered in 1913—but quickly lost again, only to be “rediscovered” again in 1921. The discovery helped advance efforts at preservation, leading to the designation of Timpanogos Cave National Monument in 1922.

After exiting the tunnel and entering Timpanogos Cave, hikers are greeted by many stalactites, including one likened to a chipped tooth, where the base has clearly broken off. After traversing another pool (called Hidden Lake ), the route climbs an initial set of stairs and passes perhaps the most famous attraction in the caves: a multi-ton stalactite—largest in the monument—known as the Great Heart of Timpanogos .

Just beyond, the trail splits, with tours taking a brief detour left before returning to the junction and proceeding up the staircase ahead. The diversion culminates at the Chimes Chamber , a diverse room featuring many different cave formations, including draperies (a.k.a. “cave bacon,” stalactites, stalagmites, cave popcorn, and wily, delicate features known as helictites .

From Chimes Chamber, tour participants will retrace their steps and return to the junction, then bear left and climb a staircase until reaching the Camel Room , named for an outcrop that looks a bit like the animal. There are also some nice stalactites and columns in the chamber.

From here the route rises again and then drops down a staircase with tight passages, skirting two flowstone features known as the Cascade of Energy and Caramel Falls , the latter appearing to ooze with a brownish sludge.

Thereafter the remaining portions of the cave are relatively narrow tunnels (with several limestone protrusions seemingly perfectly placed to bang you in the head). Just before exiting the cave, hikers can look right to see the natural entrance to Timpanogos Cave. Upon exiting a final door, visitors are greeted again by the warm sun, although tempered slightly by a shaded pavilion.

Timpanogos Cave Trail (1.5 mi. to Visitor Center)

Now back out in the light, hikers pick up the paved Timpanogos Cave Trail again, this time snaking along ledges and below rock faces until an open area with a few switchbacks and fine views down American Fork Canyon. Enjoy the various overlooks, then proceed back down to the one and only trail junction; here the path merges with the trail up to the cave entrance, and the rest of the hike involves retracing steps from the ascent. This time, however, the going is much easier, with much of the time spent cheering on the much slower uphill hikers.

All told, the stem-and-loop—including the full Timpanogos Cave Trail and the cave tour—clocks in at around 3.2 miles total. The park suggests budgeting at least 3-3.5 hours for the round-trip, although speedy hikers are likely able to complete the entire journey in less time.

Share this:

2 thoughts on “ timpanogos cave trail & cave tour (timpanogos cave national monument, ut) ”.

Pingback: Timpanogos Falls (Mount Timpanogos Wilderness, UT) | Live and Let Hike

Pingback: Top 10 Hikes in 2022 | Live and Let Hike

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Timpanogos Cave National Monument is located in American Fork Canyon and has 80,000 visitors annually. Timpanongos Cave is actually a collection of three caves that have been connected by man-made tunnels over the years. The caves are at a constant temperature of 46 degrees. It became a National Monument in 1922.

Timpanogos Cave Hike Details

Distance – 3.0 miles roundtrip Hiking and Tour time – 3 to 4 hours Elevation at Visitors’ Center – 5638 feet Elevation at the Cave entrance – 6730 feet Elevation gain – 1092 feet Difficulty – Moderate – Steep with some exposed trails Trail – well maintained asphalt trail Amount of water recommended – 1 liter Bathrooms – At the Visitors’ Center and top of the trail Seasons to hike – Caves are open from May to mid-October Permits needed – $6 fee paid at ranger booth. Ticket purchases required in advance

Timpanogos Cave History Lesson

Hansen Cave was first discovered in October 1887 by Martin Hansen. Martin was cutting timber high up the canyon one morning, when he noticed cougar tracks in the snow where he was logging. He followed these tracks and they led to the cave now called Hansen Cave. Without a lantern, he could explore only what he could see from the entrance. He later returned several times to explore the cave. Eventually Martin, his family, and friends constructed a simple trail that went straight up from the canyon floor to the cave entrance. Simple log ladders were constructed to help people make the steep climb to Hansen Cave. For a small fee he led tours to and through the cave from 1888 to 1891.

During the summer of 1913, two teenage boys James Gough and Frank Johnson, while waiting to enter Hansen Cave, did some exploring themselves to the east of Hansen Cave. While scrambling along the rock face, they realized that they could not safely climb down. They continued to try to find an alternative route down and back to Hansen Cave. Along the way James saw an unusual looking rock and he and Frank began to dig around it. The rock moved and tumbled into a dark hole behind it. They had found an entrance to a cave which would become Timpanogos Cave. As they peered inside, they could see light coming from another opening. They retrieved their group and searched through the cave. Two weeks later they returned to explore the rest of the cave. Since they decided not to share the location of the cave with others, the whereabouts of the cave remained a secret from the general public for years.

Then in 1921, with rumors of the cave still swirling, Vearl Manwill wanted to see if he could find it. He consulted Martin Hansen, who discovered Hansen Cave, for ideas on where it might be. Hansen suggested that Manwill search around the same elevation as Hansen Cave. On August 14th, 1921, he and his group first explored Hansen Cave, which hadn’t had guided tours in almost 30 years. He discovered that in Hansen Cave many of the formations had been damaged or removed. As his group began to search along the elevation line of Hansen Cave, Manwill spotted a peculiar rock. He dug around the rock and it plunged into a dark abyss. Manwill knew he’d rediscovered Timpanogos Cave. Members of his group explored the cave and vowed that day to protect the contents of the cave.

Just three months later, Martin Hansen’s son Heber Hansen and his nephew Wayne Hansen made their own discovery. In October of 1921, they were hunting up on the other side of the canyon. During lunch Wayne was peering across the canyon towards Hansen Cave and the recently rediscovered Timpanogos Cave, when he spotted what looked like a third cave entrance between the other two. They descended the north canyon wall and climbed up the south canyon wall between the two other caves and, sure enough, a third cave was discovered. They brought back ropes and Martin Hansen to explore what is now called Middle Cave.

Timpanogos Cave National Monument is open from May to mid-October. Reservations must be made in advance. The pass is $8 for adults (16 and over), $6 for ages 6-15 years old, $4 for children 3-5 years old, and free for children 0-2 years old.

On the National Park Service website is the following info regarding the hike:

Cave tours are very popular and often sell out in advance. Weekends and holidays are particularly busy, and it is best to avoid those days if possible. Tour tickets may be purchased up to 30 days in advance online or by calling (877) 444-6777 between 10:00 AM and Midnight EST. Your tour begins and ends at the visitor center. This means that the time you purchase your ticket for is the time you should pick that ticket up at the visitor center. Plan on 3-4 hours for your hike up, your cave tour, and your hike down.

Tours are limited to 16 visitors. The tour schedule is subject to staff availability, but tours are generally offered every 15 minutes from 7:00 AM until 4:45 PM. Please remember that anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Any tour tickets not sold in advance go on sale at the visitor center at 7:00 AM on the day of the tour and must be purchased in person. Same day tickets generally sell out early in the day.

Tickets must be purchased at the visitor center before hiking to the caves; tickets cannot be purchased at the cave entrance. Go to  Timpanogos Cave National Monument Tour reservations  to reserve your tickets online.

How to get there:

If coming from Salt Lake City take Interstate 15 south and take Exit 284 Highland/Alpine. Turn left (East) onto UT-92 (also known as Timpanogos Highway) Head east on UT-92 for 12.5 miles. (Along the way you’ll pass through a fee station where it is $6 for a 3-day pass.) Continue past the fee station for 2.3 miles. The parking lot is on your right.

If coming from Provo or farther south, take Interstate 15 north to Ext 275 (Pleasant Grove Blvd.) Turn right (east) on to Pleasant Grove Blvd and turn left (north) at the very first stoplight, only 0.3 of a mile after exiting the freeway. This road is 2000 W/N County Blvd. Continue on this road for 5.5 miles. (The name of this road will change several times along the way. Just stay on it until you reach UT-92/11000 North. Turn right (east) onto UT-92/11000 North and follow it for 6.2 miles up the canyon. (Along the way, you’ll pass through a fee station where it is $6 for a 3-day pass.) Continue past the fee station for 2.3 miles and the parking lot is on your right.

Hitting the Trail!

After picking up your tickets at the Visitors Center, follow the signs to the paved trailhead to Timpanogos Cave. One misconception that many people have is that, since the trail is paved, it will be an easy stroll. Don’t be fooled! While it is paved, there is a constant incline the entire way. The 1.5 mile trail gains almost 1,100 feet in elevation. You are allotted 90 minutes to make the climb to the cave entrance. If you are late, you may miss your opportunity to tour the cave. Plan accordingly. In the mornings the trail can be crowded because many people use the trail for their morning workout. These “early walkers” carry badges to identify them as such. Remember, running is not permitted on the trail at any time.

While ascending the trail to the cave you’ll pass through places that were cut out of the rock, by the WPA back in the 1930s. Here is your history lesson for the day. The Works Progress Administration was a program put in place by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression to provide work for those suffering from effects of prolonged unemployment. Since then the trail has been maintained and improved by the National Park Service.

Hikers to the cave entrance will have beautiful views of American Fork Canyon, and several steep spots will have barriers in place for safety.

Along the trail there are steep drop offs. If you bring young children watch them very carefully. Some parts of the trail have rock walls, chains, and cables to keep you safe. Other areas have ropes to hang onto. There are still other areas that are frankly, a bit scary to traverse. There are areas along the trail where rock falls are common. These are well marked and visitors are warned not to stop for any reason in these areas. In 2010, a 3 year old girl wasn’t paying attention and fell off the trail. She survived after falling 100 feet. Unfortunately, a man who reached out to save her fell 300 feet to his death. That very same year, a National Park Service employee fell 1000 feet and died along the same stretch of trail. Since then a guard rail has been constructed along parts of the trail. This isn’t meant to scare you, but to educate and prepare visitors. This hike will require you and your family to be both alert and attentive while on the trail. We found the hike to and the tour of Timpanogos Cave to be most enjoyable. But, as will any outdoor adventure, planning and preparation are key elements for a successful outing.

As explained by the sign, this part of the trail has steep dropoffs. Keep your children close and stay attentive.

At several of the switchbacks and other spots along the trail are benches where hikers can take a break and enjoy the views. There are also signs that talk about the geology, wildlife, and history of American Fork Canyon and Timpanogos Cave. Hikers will also see small markers to track their progress and give encouragement.

As you get closer to the cave entrance, there is a locker for hikers to drop off their backpacks, walking sticks, etc. The cave is narrow in spots and the rangers will have you wear your backpack in front of you. I would recommend leaving your backpack in the locker and just taking your camera, headlamp, and sweatshirt.

This is a view from the waiting area at the Timp Cave entrance looking down the trail. The small stone building has bathrooms.

Shortly after passing the backpack locker, you’ll see a small stone building just before you reach the cave entrance. While there are nice bathrooms at the visitors center, there are some not-so-nice bathrooms in this small stone building.

Cave Entrance and Tour

It may be a good idea to have your headlamp handy, but as it turned out, we didn’t use it. There is a ranger that guides the tour who is at the front of the group, and then an additional ranger at the back of the group to help any stragglers.

Hansen Cave is the first cave that you’ll enter, and unfortunately, many of the formations were removed by miners and souvenir collectors before the caves became a National Monument. It is the least impressive of the three caves. As expected, it is dark and the floor can be wet in spots. Small spotlights have been installed to help light the way and illuminate some of the best formations.

This small pool is found in the beginning of Middle Cave

Please don’t touch the formations in the cave. As I was always taught as a child, “Look with your eyes, and not with your hands.” Tunnels were cut into the rock to fully connect the three caves. There are also several spots where it is a tight squeeze in the cave, but it definitely adds to the cave experience. Flash photography is permitted throughout the cave tour.

This formation is called the Heart of Timpanogos

There are amazing formations throughout the Timpanogos Caves.

The rangers will stop six or seven times along the way and point out some of the unique features of the caves, as well share stories about the history of the caves. The Heart of the Timpanogos is one of the formations that the ranger highlights along the tour. While the temperance maintains a consistent 46 degrees, you may want to bring a light jacket or sweatshirt. The temperature also makes for a nice break from the heat during summer days.

Views up American Fork Canyon from the Timpanogos Cave trail

Once you reach the cave exit, follow the paved trail which will lead you back to the backpack locker. After picking up your things just return the way you came and be sure to enjoy the views up and down the American Fork Canyon.

Enjoy the hike!

(We’d love to meet you! Connect with us on our YOUR HIKE GUIDE on Instagram or Facebook .)

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

About Author

Adam is an experienced hiker and canyoneer, who has visited some of the most breathtaking and remote places in the United States. As an instructor for Desert and Wilderness Survival, and for Leave No Trace camping practices, he shares his passion and respect for the outdoors to all. Adam is currently a Scoutmaster in the Boy Scout of America, and is an Eagle Scout. As the founder of www.yourhikeguide.com, his goal is to educate others on the joys of hiking.

Related Posts

Wahweap Hoodoos

Antelope Canyon

Comments are closed.

Centennial Lantern Tour

Timpanogos Cave National Monument Tours

Step back in time and experience Timpanogos Cave lit only by the flicker of lanterns on this ranger-guided tour to celebrate 100 years as a national monument! Discover what early explorers experienced as they traveled through the dark passages of the cave. Hear stories of early exploration and marvel at the cave’s geology by the glow of your lantern. The Timpanogos Cave System is accessed by hiking a strenuous 1.5 mile (2.4 km) paved trail with an elevation gain of 1,100 vertical feet. After completing the hike, visitors will see the caves on a ranger-led tour. The route through the cave is paved, with several flights of stairs. Because of the nature of this tour, ages 7 and up only. No infants or toddlers.

Select a date to see a list of times

Need to Know

Cave lighting system will not be used. Lanterns will be provided

No infants or toddlers

Water (1 liter per person recommended), jackets (cave temperature is 45°F, 7°C.) , wear comfortable shoes

Flash Photography is discouraged on this tour

 Small daypacks are permitted in the caves. 

Food, drink, candy, tobacco and gum are prohibited in the caves, but allowed on the trail. 

Pets are prohibited on the cave trail and in the caves. Service animals are allowed. Service animals-in training and emotional support animals are prohibited. 

Hiking poles and walking sticks are not permitted in the caves unless needed for mobility.  

WHITE NOSE SYNDROME To help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing millions of bats in North America, the monument prohibits the use of any footwear, clothing and gear (including cameras) that have been in ANY other cave or mine at ANY time. 

PACK IT IN, PACK IT OUT . There are no trash cans along the cave trail or at the caves. 

If you have specific questions, contact the visitor center. 801-756-5239 ext. 202

Photo Gallery

Camp, RV, and Explore Outdoors

Recreation.gov is your gateway to explore America's outdoor and cultural destinations in your zip code and across the country. We provide tools and tips to discover new adventures through a one-stop shop for inspiration and ideation, trip planning, information sharing, and reservations. Find incredible places and experiences that help you bring home a story through Recreation.gov!

Get to Know Us

• Rules & Reservation Policies
• Accessibility
• Media Center

Plan with Us

• Find Trip Inspiration
• Build a Trip
• Enter a Lottery
• Checkout our Mobile App
• Get Involved
• Use Our Data
• Add Your Facility

Let Us Help You

• Help Center
• Submit Feedback
• Responsible Disclosure

The Utah Hike That Leads To The Most Unforgettable Destination

Catherine Armstrong

Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.

More by this Author

Utah’s hiking trails are all great ways to bask in the beauty of nature, but there’s one in particular that takes you to an unforgettable destination. It’s a strenuous climb, but well worth your effort for the payoff at the top!

Related Stories

Hike Through Utah's Rock Maze For An Adventure Like No Other

This Pretty Parkway Trail In Utah Is Perfect For Everyone

This 2-Mile Hike In Utah Takes You Through An Enchanting Forest

Reserve your cave tour now! Tours sell out, and if you just show up, you’re likely to be disappointed. Call (877) 444-6777 or purchase tickets online here .

When is the last time you hiked to Timpanogos Cave? Tell us about your experience in the comments! Learn more about Timpanogos Cave National Monument on the National Park Service’s website , and follow the monument’s Facebook page to see the latest events.

Here’s another short trail in Utah that’s a little bit steep, but has a cool feature at the end .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Utah in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Utah!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

Related Articles

• Utah's Glowing Pumpkin Trail Is A Great Way To Celebrate Fall
• This Beautiful And Scenic Trail In Utah Is Perfect For Beginners
• Take This Utah Trail To Travel The Same Spots As A Notorious Criminal From The Past
• This Easy Hike In Utah Is Less Than Two Miles And Takes You To A Gorgeous Lake
• This Short, Easy Hike In Utah Will Lead You Straight To A Magnificent Arch
• 9 Water Wonderlands In Utah That Will Take Your Summer To A Whole New Level
• This Exhilarating Hike Takes You To The Most Crystal Blue Lake In Utah
• This Utah Desert Reserve Is A Gem Just Waiting To Be Discovered

Explore Utah

• National & State Parks
• Natural Wonders
• On the Water
• Parks & Gardens
• State Parks

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, frequently asked questions.

Last updated: May 19, 2022

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

2038 W. Alpine Loop Road American Fork, UT 84003

(801)756-5239

Stay Connected