Sunday, October 23, 2016

Spotlight: Utah County - Alpine Loop

Spotlight: One of the best things about autumn is the fall colors. Everyone knows that New England has beautiful fall colors; but they don't have a monopoly on gorgeous autumn leaves. The aspen groves that dominate the Wasatch Front create some of the most colorful autumn foliage in the nation, with the golden aspens and crimson maple leaves contrasting sharply with the green pine trees. Although there are plenty of gorgeous scenic drives throughout the state, the Alpine Loop is habitually ranked among the top scenic drives in the state - particularly when summer rolls into fall.


Location: Take UT HWY 92 east from the Alpine / Timpanogos Cave National Monument exit #284 off I-15 and follow it all the way to US HWY 189; then head west back to I-15. Or exit #272 off I-15 at 800 North in Orem and take UT 52 east to US 189 to UT 92; follow this all the way back to I-15 in Lehi.

Cost: $6 (3-day recreation pass), $12 (7-day pass), or $45 (annual pass) good for Alpine Loop and Mirror Lake Highway

Time: Plan on about 2 hours if you just drive and stop periodically. Add on any extra time for hiking. The loop is closed during the winter, but opens up near the beginning of May, and stays open until late October.

Description: The Alpine Loop is a 20-mile drive that winds through the canyons of the Wasatch Front from American Fork to Orem/Provo. The drive takes you around Mount Timpanogos - the most popular mountain in the valley - and offers access to many of its natural beauties.


     In addition to beautiful fall foliage, the loop passes by the following popular attractions: Timpanogos Cave National Monument, Timpooneke Trail (to the summit of Mount Timpanogos), Julie Andrews Meadow, Cascade Springs, Silver Lake, Stewart Falls, Aspen Grove, and Sundance Mountain Resort.
Mount Timpanogos hike
Stewart Falls
Rating: 4 1/2 stars (out of 5)

Things You Should Know: - The entire Alpine Loop is paved, and most vehicles can travel its entire length without any difficulty. Vehicles over 30 feet, or older cars that have trouble going up inclines, are not recommended.
- The road is windy, so if you are prone to carsickness, take appropriate precautions.

Nearby: Thanksgiving Point, Bridal Veil Falls, Deer Creek, Heber Valley Railroad

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