Mount Timpanogos
The Majestic Peak that shapes a valley.
A Mountain with a Myth
Many Utahans know the story of how Timp got its name. From the nps.gov website, they explain, "At least twelve recorded versions of the Legend of Timpanogos exist today. Though the legends vary, most explain the curious outline of a woman that can be seen in the peaks of Mount Timpanogos, or the origin of the "Great Heart," a large stalactite found in the Timpanogos Cave System."
Regardless of where the story came from, the mountain is hard to miss when visiting the valley. It's a place many people escape to and explore. My images are from my adventures around and on Timp.
A Towering Giant
Mount Timpanogos towers over the Utah Valley. It is noticeable almost from almost every part of the valley. It's peak is hiked by college students, adventurers, the average neighborhood parent. It is a hard mountain to climb but it is one of the most hiked peaks in the state. It is one of the most popular mountains to hike in the Rockies. There are many places on the mountain to explore and every facet of the peak gives a different experience. Each trail and meadow tells a different story.
Hiking to the peak in midsummer, there are wildflowers all along the trail. In the fall, the colors explode in the various golden aspen groves, with red and orange scrub oak lining the trail follow the trails. Mountain goats wander the mountain side, ignoring the hikers that visit their homes. Marmots yell from piles of branches and stone, warning of the trespassers.
Every Spring there is a snowfield that sits just below the peak. The locals call it a glacier, even though it is not. The snowfield, while beautiful is dangerous. It has claimed many and is not a place to be traveled carelessly.
Hiking to see the sunrise or sunset is one of the best ways to see the mountain.
Fall and Winter are some of my favorite times to visit. In winter, the mountain can often be quieter but just as beautiful. While hiking to the peak in winter is not advisable, the lower trails are accessible and beautiful. One of my favorite winter hikes is Stewart Falls, a popular trail near the Sundance Ski Resort.
Fall is when the mountain shines. The east side of the mountain is covered in Aspen groves. The Aspen Loop is a drive that connects Provo Canyon to American Fork Canyon. The road takes the driver through many amazing groves of yellow quaky aspens. It's a popular time and the road is full of cars and families taking photos.
If someone is willing to get off the beaten paths, the crowds quickly dissipate.
Mount Timpanogos has several waterfalls, a cave that is a national monument and a ski resort. It's a beautiful landmark and a wonderful place to explore all throughout the year.
