Thursday, July 25, 2013

Top of Timpanogos

It's an 18 mile trek from the Timpanooke campground (American Fork Canyon) to the top of the mountain and back.  We took the challenge either in honor of Pioneer Day or because we all had the day off. We started at midnight so that we could get to the top by sunrise. The top was FREEZING and beautiful. My favorite part of the hike is the meadow full of wildflowers of all colors. I loved it! And we saw a porcupine!
Getting there: Drive up American Fork Canyon and stay on UT-92E (Alpine Loop Road) until you come to Timpooneke Rd. Turn right on this road and find a place to park. The trailhead is clearly marked. This hike took up about 9 hours but that's because I was trying to keep up with my long-legged brother; it usually takes 10-12. The top of the mountain is usually really cold, so pack appropriately. 
The hike is fairly easy if you are from Utah and used to the altitude. The last mile up is all switchbacks and that can be extremely difficult, but that's only a small portion of the hike. Also, trust me on this: it is much easier to get down the mountain the same way you came up, opposed to trying to slide down the glacier. 

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