Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Explore a stunning 3-cave system after a challenging, scenic hike in American Fork Canyon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a stunning 3-cave system after a challenging, scenic hike in American Fork Canyon.
"The hike is strenuous but paved, with spectacular views, and the cave itself is so interesting and beautiful."
🎟️ Book Timed Tickets Online
Tours sell out fast! Secure your spot online well in advance, especially for weekends.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The paved trail is steep and can be slippery. Good traction is essential for the hike up and down.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 1,865 reviews
Type
National Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three Connected Caves
Inside the cave
Explore Timpanogos Cave, Middle Cave, and Hansen's Cave, marveling at unique formations like helictites.
The Scenic Cave Trail
Trail to the cave entrance
A paved, 1.5-mile hike with stunning canyon views leading to the cave entrance.
Centennial Lantern Tour
Cave tours
Experience a unique tour lit only by lanterns, celebrating the monument's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Cave Tour Tickets in Advance!
Prepare for the Hike and Cave Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Timed Tickets Online
Tours sell out fast! Secure your spot online well in advance, especially for weekends.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The paved trail is steep and can be slippery. Good traction is essential for the hike up and down.
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
Cave temperatures are consistently cool, around 45°F (7°C), even in summer.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
The 1.5-mile hike uphill is strenuous. Carry plenty of water to stay refreshed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Timed Tickets Online
Tours sell out fast! Secure your spot online well in advance, especially for weekends.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The paved trail is steep and can be slippery. Good traction is essential for the hike up and down.
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
Cave temperatures are consistently cool, around 45°F (7°C), even in summer.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
The 1.5-mile hike uphill is strenuous. Carry plenty of water to stay refreshed.
🎒 Pack a Small Backpack
To carry water and your jacket comfortably during the cave tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the unique beauty of the cave formations, especially the helictites, and the rewarding scenic hike to reach it. The ranger-guided tours are informative and well-organized. However, the strenuous nature of the hike and the need to book tickets far in advance are common points of consideration.
"You need tickets ("
Rachel Q
"The Timpanogos Cave Trail offers a rewarding and accessible hike with impressive views. Although the parking lot was packed, the timed-entry system keeps the number of visitors on the trail and in the cave at a manageable level. The paved trail climbs steadily with a significant elevation gain over a short distance, but it’s still very doable for most hikers.
Before heading up, there’s a brief safety orientation which helps set expectations. The cave tour itself is fascinating, walking through the stalactite cave is a unique and well organized experience. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the area!"
Roland K
"This is one of my favorite places to visit in all of Utah. The hike to get to the cave is breathtaking in every sense of the word. Very strenuous, but paved and has spectacular views. The cave itself is so interesting and beautiful. I was shocked by the vibrant colors. The tour guides are very knowledge and make it fun. Make sure to reserve tickets in plenty of advance. I wouldn’t recommend doing the hike during the summer afternoon (morning is best for summer). There is a bathroom at the top near the cave entrance, which is great (but stinky). The tour takes about an hour and the hike takes about 1.5 hours for a slow group."
Jen Nels
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Timpanogos Cave National Monument is located in American Fork Canyon, Utah. Access is typically via the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway. The monument has a visitor center and parking area. Be aware that the Alpine Loop may have seasonal closures.
Yes, there is a parking lot at the monument's visitor center. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and on weekends. Arriving early is recommended.
Public transportation options directly to Timpanogos Cave National Monument are limited. It is generally recommended to have a personal vehicle for easier access to the monument and surrounding canyon areas.
The most common route is via the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway. From I-15, take exit 284 for UT-92 East towards Highland/Alpine. Continue on UT-92, which becomes the Alpine Loop. Follow signs for Timpanogos Cave National Monument.
The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, which provides access to the monument, is typically closed in winter due to snow. Check the official National Park Service website for current road conditions and seasonal opening dates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there is no fee to enter the monument itself, you absolutely need timed tickets for the guided cave tours. These tours are the primary way to experience the cave.
Ticket prices vary, but typically range from $8-$12 for adults and $4-$6 for children. Check the official Recreation.gov website for the most current pricing and to purchase tickets.
Tickets must be purchased in advance online through Recreation.gov. They are not typically sold at the monument. It's crucial to book well ahead of your visit as tours sell out quickly.
Tours generally run from May through September, with specific daily hours. It's essential to check the official Timpanogos Cave National Monument website or Recreation.gov for the exact operating season and tour times for your planned visit.
It is highly unlikely to get same-day tickets, as they sell out weeks or even months in advance, especially for weekend tours. Planning and booking ahead is strongly advised.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is 1.5 miles one-way (3.1 miles roundtrip) and is paved but steep, with about 1,092 feet of elevation gain. It's considered strenuous by many, but the views are rewarding. +2
No, the trail is not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs due to its steepness and uneven terrain in some sections. It's also not recommended for individuals with significant mobility issues or those unaccustomed to strenuous hiking.
The ranger-guided cave tour lasts approximately 55 minutes to an hour.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Bring layers, including a light jacket or sweatshirt, as the cave is cool year-round. Sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also recommended for the hike.
Yes, there are restrooms located near the cave entrance at the top of the hike, which can be convenient before or after your tour.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the cave, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the delicate cave formations and for the safety of other visitors. Always follow the guide's instructions.
Besides the cave formations, the hike itself offers stunning panoramic views of American Fork Canyon. Capture the dramatic landscapes on your way up and down.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is helpful for inside the cave. For the hike, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive canyon views. A small, lightweight camera is best to avoid hindering your hike.
Always adhere to the ranger's guidance regarding photography. Flash photography is typically not permitted inside the cave. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways.
Look for the unique helictites, which seem to defy gravity, as well as stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. The vibrant colors of the crystals are also a highlight.
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