Alpine Loop Utah: A Scenic Drive Through the Wasatch Mountains

Alpine Loop in Utah is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the Wasatch Range. This 20-mile drive is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, as it winds through American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon. The drive takes visitors through dense forests, past cascading waterfalls, and over high mountain passes.

One of the highlights of Alpine Loop Utah is Cascade Springs, a natural spring that feeds into a series of pools and waterfalls. Visitors can take a short walk along a boardwalk to view the springs and enjoy the serene surroundings. Another popular attraction along the drive is Mount Timpanogos, a towering peak that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

To access Alpine Loop Utah, visitors must purchase a recreation pass, which is required for all vehicles that enter the area. The pass is available for purchase at various locations along the drive, and is valid for three days, seven days, or an entire year. Whether visitors are looking for a scenic drive or an outdoor adventure, Alpine Loop Utah offers something for everyone.

Getting There

To explore the scenic Alpine Loop Utah, visitors can access the area from either Provo Canyon or American Fork Canyon. The route is a 20-mile scenic drive that connects the two canyons, providing breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains and the Utah Valley.

Driving Directions

From Salt Lake City

Visitors coming from Salt Lake City can take I-15 South and exit at 284, which leads to SR-92. Follow SR-92 East for about 10 miles to reach the mouth of American Fork Canyon. From there, the Alpine Loop Utah can be accessed by taking the road up the canyon.

From Provo

Visitors coming from Provo can take US-189 North and exit at the junction with SR-92. Follow SR-92 West for about 7 miles to reach the mouth of American Fork Canyon. From there, the Alpine Loop Utah can be accessed by taking the road up the canyon.

Parking

There are several parking areas along the Alpine Loop Utah, including the Timpanogos Cave National Monument, Sundance Resort, and the Deer Creek Reservoir. Visitors are advised to park in designated areas to avoid any inconvenience.

Fees

To access the Alpine Loop Utah, visitors need to pay a fee. A $6 pass is available and is valid for three days, while a $12 pass is valid for seven days. An annual pass is also available for $45. The passes are valid for both the Alpine Scenic Loop and the Mirror Lake Hwy.

Weather

The weather in the area can change quickly, so visitors are advised to check the forecast before heading out. The Alpine Loop Utah is generally open from late May through October, but the exact dates may vary depending on the weather conditions.

Road Conditions

The Alpine Loop Utah is a narrow, winding road with lots of blind curves and no center dividing lines. Vehicles longer than 29.5 feet (9 m) are not recommended to use the Alpine Loop. Visitors are advised to drive slowly and be cautious, especially during peak season when the road can be crowded with cyclists and motorcycles.

Contact Information

For further information about the Alpine Loop Utah, visitors can contact the Pleasant Grove Ranger District at 801-785-3563.

The Route

The Alpine Loop Utah is a 20-mile scenic byway that winds through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, offering stunning views of glacier-carved peaks, waterfalls, wildlife, wildflowers, and fall colors. The route has several attractions and points of interest that make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Pine Hollow Trail

The Pine Hollow Trail is a popular hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is approximately 5 miles long and is rated as moderate difficulty. Hikers can enjoy the beautiful scenery and spot wildlife such as deer, elk, and moose along the way.

Cascade Spring

Cascade Spring is a natural spring that flows into Cascade Creek, which runs alongside the Alpine Loop Utah. The spring is a popular spot for picnicking and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Visitors can also take a short hike to Cascade Falls, a stunning waterfall that drops 200 feet into a rocky canyon.

Tibble Fork Reservoir

Tibble Fork Reservoir is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The reservoir is stocked with fish such as rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic drive around the reservoir and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

The Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a must-visit attraction along the Alpine Loop Utah. The monument features three spectacular caves that are filled with stunning formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and helictites. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves and learn about their geology and history.

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls is a stunning waterfall that drops 607 feet into a rocky canyon. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and take a short hike to the base of the falls. The waterfall is also a popular spot for rock climbing and rappelling.

Overall, the Alpine Loop Utah is a scenic drive that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing drive, the Alpine Loop Utah is a must-visit destination.

Camping and Lodging

Utah Valley's Alpine Loop is a popular destination for camping enthusiasts. Visitors can choose from a variety of campgrounds, ranging from primitive to modern facilities. Additionally, there are several lodging options available in nearby Sundance Mountain Resort, which offers a more luxurious camping experience.

Campgrounds

There are several campgrounds located along the Alpine Loop, managed by the Pleasant Grove Ranger District. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities, including picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets. Some of the popular campgrounds in the area include:

• Granite Flat Campground
• Little Mill Campground
• Altamont Campground
• Timpooneke Campground
• Mount Timpanogos Campground
• Salamander Flats Campground
• Silver Flat Lake

Each campground has its own unique features, such as access to hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic views. Visitors are advised to check with the ranger station for availability and reservation information.

Sundance Mountain Resort Lodging

For those looking for a more upscale camping experience, Sundance Mountain Resort offers a variety of lodging options, including cabins, suites, and mountain homes. The resort is located just a short drive from the Alpine Loop, and offers easy access to hiking trails, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

The accommodations at Sundance Mountain Resort are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, providing a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. Guests can enjoy amenities such as fireplaces, private balconies, and hot tubs. The resort also features several restaurants, including the award-winning Tree Room, which offers a fine dining experience in a rustic setting.

Restaurants

In addition to the restaurants at Sundance Mountain Resort, there are several dining options located along the Alpine Loop. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines, ranging from classic American fare to international cuisine. Some of the popular restaurants in the area include:

• The Foundry Grill
• The Ridge Cafe
• The Owl Bar

Each restaurant offers its own unique atmosphere and menu, providing visitors with a diverse range of dining options.

Recreation Passes and Fees

Visitors to the Alpine Loop Scenic Drive in Utah are required to purchase recreation passes. The passes are available for purchase at various locations along the route, including the Pleasant Grove Ranger District. The passes are valid for both the Alpine Scenic Loop and the Mirror Lake Highway.

Annual Pass

The annual pass costs $45 and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. It allows unlimited access to the Alpine Loop Scenic Drive and the Mirror Lake Highway. The pass can be purchased at any time of the year and is a great option for frequent visitors to the area.

7-Day Pass

The 7-day pass costs $12 and is valid for seven consecutive days from the date of purchase. It allows access to the Alpine Loop Scenic Drive and the Mirror Lake Highway during that time period.

3-Day Pass

The 3-day pass costs $6 and is valid for three consecutive days from the date of purchase. It allows access to the Alpine Loop Scenic Drive and the Mirror Lake Highway during that time period.

$6 Pass

The $6 pass is valid for three days and is a great option for those who are only planning a short visit to the area. It allows access to the Alpine Loop Scenic Drive and the Mirror Lake Highway during that time period.

$12 Pass

The $12 pass is valid for seven days and is a great option for those who are planning a slightly longer visit to the area. It allows access to the Alpine Loop Scenic Drive and the Mirror Lake Highway during that time period.

$45 Annual Pass

The $45 annual pass is a great option for those who plan to visit the area frequently throughout the year. It allows unlimited access to the Alpine Loop Scenic Drive and the Mirror Lake Highway for one year from the date of purchase.

America the Beautiful, National Parks Pass

The America the Beautiful, National Parks Pass is also honored at the Alpine Loop Scenic Drive. This pass allows access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country, including national parks, national forests, and wildlife refuges. The pass costs $80 for an annual pass, $20 for a senior pass (62 and older), and free for active military and citizens with disabilities.

Vehicles over 30 feet long are not recommended on the Alpine Loop Scenic Drive. For more information about recreation passes and fees, visitors can contact the Pleasant Grove Ranger District at 801-785-3563.

Things to Do

There are plenty of activities to do along the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway. Here are some of the top things to do:

Hiking Trails

The Alpine Loop offers some of the best hiking trails in Utah. The trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular hiking trails include:

• Timpanogos Cave Trail: This 3.5-mile round trip trail takes hikers to the entrance of the Timpanogos Cave. The trail is steep, but the views are worth it.
• Cascade Springs Trail: This easy 1-mile trail takes hikers to a beautiful natural spring. The trail is wheelchair accessible.
• Stewart Falls Trail: This 3.5-mile round trip trail takes hikers to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is moderate in difficulty.

Boardwalk

The boardwalk at Cascade Springs is a must-visit attraction along the Alpine Loop. The boardwalk takes visitors through a beautiful forest and over a natural spring. The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and is a great place to take photos.

Fall Foliage

Late September through Late October is the best time to see the fall foliage along the Alpine Loop. The colors are stunning, and the scenery is breathtaking. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the beauty.

Photos

The Alpine Loop is a photographer's dream. There are plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos. Some of the best places to take photos include:

• Cascade Springs: The natural spring and boardwalk make for great photos.
• Sundance Mountain Resort: The resort offers stunning views of the mountains.
• Provo Canyon: The canyon offers beautiful views of the river and mountains.

Late May

Late May is a great time to visit the Alpine Loop. The weather is mild, and the wildflowers are in bloom. Be sure to take a drive along the scenic byway to see the beautiful flowers.

Amenities

The Alpine Loop in Utah offers a variety of amenities to make visitors' experiences more enjoyable. Here are some of the amenities available:

Campgrounds

There are several campgrounds along the Alpine Loop, including the Timpooneke Campground, the Little Mill Campground, and the Granite Flat Campground. These campgrounds offer a variety of amenities, including picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets.

Hiking Trails

The Alpine Loop is home to several hiking trails, including the Timpooneke Trail, the Mount Timpanogos Trail, and the Aspen Grove Trail. These trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors should be prepared for steep terrain and changing weather conditions.

Picnic Areas

There are several picnic areas along the Alpine Loop, including the Timpooneke Picnic Area, the Pine Hollow Picnic Area, and the Cascade Springs Picnic Area. These areas offer picnic tables, grills, and restrooms.

Scenic Overlooks

The Alpine Loop offers several scenic overlooks, including the Cascade Springs Scenic Overlook, the Mount Timpanogos Scenic Overlook, and the Provo Canyon Scenic Overlook. These overlooks offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Visitor Centers

The Alpine Loop is managed by the Pleasant Grove Ranger District, which operates several visitor centers along the loop. These centers offer information about the area, maps, and souvenirs. Visitors can also purchase passes for the loop at these centers.

Other Amenities

Other amenities along the Alpine Loop include restrooms, parking areas, and interpretive signs. Visitors should be aware that the loop is narrow and winding, and that vehicles longer than 29.5 feet are not recommended.