Timpanogos Cave National Monument in Utah invites visitors to hike a scenic mountain trail and explore three stunningly decorated limestone caves. Ranger-guided tours reveal the geology, history, and beauty of this unique cavern system.
Overview
Timpanogos Cave National Monument is located near American Fork, Utah, at the top of a strenuous mile-and-a-half hike. The park protects three spectacular limestone caves—Timpanogos, Hansen, and Marmalade—that feature impressive stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and rare cave formations. Visitors must join a ranger-guided tour to explore the caves, which are accessed by a steep trail through beautiful mountain scenery .
Geology and Cave Features
The monument’s caves were formed over millions of years by the action of underground water dissolving limestone, creating vast chambers and intricate formations. Each cave—Timpanogos, Hansen, and Marmalade—has its own distinct collection of speleothems (cave decorations) including:
- Stalactites and stalagmites
- Soda straws and flowstones
- Unique mineral deposits and formations
The cave interior is a constant 45 degrees Fahrenheit, giving a cool escape in the summer heat above .
History and Management
The caves were discovered in 1904, though Native Americans knew of their existence and folklore surrounds their discovery. The area was set aside as a national monument in 1935 to protect the unique cave system and its surroundings. Today, the National Park Service manages the site with a focus on preservation, education, and safe public access through guided tours .
Plan Your Visit
The caves are only accessible by ranger-guided tours, which require a strenuous 1.5-mile hike gaining nearly 1,000 feet in elevation. Tours typically run from spring through fall, and tickets must be reserved in advance due to high demand and limited capacity.
Timpanogos Cave Visitor Center
The visitor center, located at the trailhead, is the starting point for all cave tours. Visitors must check in here to receive their tour tickets and begin the hike. The center offers orientation, exhibits, and information on cave tour times and park guidelines .
Cave Tours
- Main Cave Tour: A ranger-guided walk through all three caves, highlighting geological features and cave history.
- Introduction to Caving Tour: A 90-minute adventure into Hansen Cave, involving climbing and crawling sections.
- Historic Lantern Tours: Seasonal tours that explore the cave lit only by vintage lanterns, sharing the monument’s history and lore.
Tickets can be reserved online up to 30 days in advance. All visitors must begin the hike within 1.5 hours of their scheduled tour time .
Hiking and Trail Info
The hike to the caves is strenuous, with steep, rocky sections and stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains. Visitors are advised to bring at least one liter of water and wear sturdy shoes. The trail temperature can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit in summer. Strollers, wheeled devices, and hiking poles are not allowed in the cave .
Additional Visitor Information
- The monument prohibits any gear that has been in other caves or mines to prevent the spread of White-nose Syndrome, a deadly bat disease.
- The cave is a no-pet zone, though service animals are allowed.
- A light jacket is recommended for the cool cave interior .
Wildlife and Ecology
The monument’s above-ground area supports diverse flora and fauna typical of the Wasatch Range, while the caves provide important habitat for bats and other specialized cave organisms. Park staff educate visitors about the importance of cave and ecosystem preservation .
Contact Information
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
2038 W. Alpine Loop Road
American Fork, UT 84003
Phone: (801) 756-5239 x202
Contact Page
Reserve a Cave Tour
Official Site
Additional Resources
- Basic Information
- Current Alerts
- Park Map
- Fees and Passes
- Introduction to Caving Tour
- Historic Lantern Tours
Experience the thrill of exploring Utah’s stunning underground world at Timpanogos Cave National Monument!
Links
Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Last updated: Sat Jun 7, 2025
