Explore the wonders held deep underground in this fantastic system of caves in the Wasatch mountains.
The Timpanogos Cave National Monument is located in the American Fork Canyon, and the area is very popular for hillwalking and picnics, as well as for visiting the caves within the mountains. Marvel at a total of 101 hectares of beautiful scenery in the Wasatch Mountain State Park.
There are three main caves in the complex – Hansen Cave, Middle Cave and Timpanogos Cave. The first of these is named after the tracker Martin Hansen, the first person to discover the cave in 1887. Hansen Cave is connected with Middle and Timpanogos caves by a number of man-made tunnels. The caves are famous for the large range of unusual rock features held therein, including dazzling stalagmites and stalactites. These are formed by the continuous deposition of tiny amounts of minerals by water in the cave. The many spectacular helictites are also a big attraction.
You are only permitted to explore the caves in the company of a park ranger and there are one-hour tours held daily during the summer. In order to get to the mouth and enter the caves, you have to undertake a challenging 2.4-kilometre climb. This hike will bring you to a height of 2,000 metres, offering panoramic views over Utah Valley.
There are also a range of routes to be explored when you finish in the cave, and lots of wild animals to be seen – these include moose, mountain lions, tiny hummingbirds and soaring falcons.
Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a 40-minute drive from Salt Lake City, and there is no public transport available. Be sure to book your tour early during holidays and at weekends to secure your place. There is a ban on bringing any items with you that have been in another cave or mine, including clothing and cameras. This is to stop the spread of an invasive disease affecting the caves' bats.
You can buy a ticket to enter the national monument, and this is valid for a number of days. Please note that the caves are closed during the winter.
