Most National Forest System lands are open, free of charge for your use and enjoyment. Entrance and user fees may be charged at some areas. Some of the areas are operated by private concessionaires under special use permits issued by the Forest Service. Please practice Safety and Leave No Trace to make your visit safe and enjoyable while protecting resources we all enjoy.
How Do I Find Out About Caves in the Area?
We encourage you to contact the local grotto, Timpanogos Grotto, for information on local caves and cave conservation and safety. Grottos are local chapters of the National Speleological Society, an organization involved in studying, exploring, and conserving caves and cave resources.
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Timpanogos Cave National Monument is located in American Fork Canyon, surrounded by the Uinta National Forest. Declared a National Monument in 1922 by President Warren G. Harding, the caves were initially managed by the Forest Service. In 1933, jurisdiction was transferred to the National Park Service. The monument consists of 250 acres, its main feature being three limestone caves accessible by a steep 1 1/2-mile trail. The Park Service provides Ranger-led tours through the cave in the summer. They also offer special "Introduction to Caving" tours off the main trail. Please contact the Monument for ticket prices and availability, either through their website or by calling the Visitor Center at 801-756-5238 (mid-May through October).
Cave Management
The Federal Cave Resources Protection Act of 1988 provides direction for management of caves deemed significant due to characteristics that are geological, mineralogic, paleontologic, recreational, cultural, biotic, educational, and/or of scientific value. There are 69 caves on the Uinta National Forest that meet the criteria of the Act. Any management activities that could affect any known cave are restricted.
Logan Cave
The cave is gated closed. The cave was closed to the public on October 1, 1997 to ensure the viability of a rare and special biological community of Townsend's Big-Eared Bats that is located in Logan Cave. The bats are particularly vulnerable to human disturbance during their periods of mating, hibernation, and maternity colony, which runs from about October to August each year. The Big-Eared Bat is listed as a sensitive species by both the Forest Service and Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. To aid with protecting this species during their vulnerable period, it is prohibited to into or within 250 feet of the mouth of Logan Cave.
|
