Hike to the top of Utah's 9th tallest peak.
By the beginning of July, much of the snow has melted and some of Utah's best peaks are accessible. Mount Timpanogos is one of the most prominent, being the ninth largest peak in the state at 11,752 feet (3,582 meters).
While you can access the peak via several trails, the Timpooneke Trail is often the best start for beginners.
We had heard from other hikers that the trailhead fills up extremely early in the morning and that it was best to get an early start to avoid the mid-day heat. Knowing this, we got to the trailhead at about 4:30 AM. There was still half a dozen spots left, but I've heard of it being full by 3 AM.
With our headlamps on, we began at roughly 4:45 AM and hiked through the dark. In less than 30 minutes, we were already shedding our layers and stepping over some small water crossings.
The sun would eventually begin to rise, removing the need for the headlamps and we could start to be the beautiful surroundings. In early July, the wildflower bloom was spectacular and the first two miles were filled with them.
We continued along the trail with a modest incline and began to encounter some scree. We were thankful for the sunlight at this point as our steps begin to get a bit more challenging.
Eventually the trail will pass a sign that reads "toilet" to your right. I didn't get a chance to see the amenities, but I have to believe the view would be rather decent.
As we headed towards the Timpanogos Basin, there was a striking view of Mt Timpanogos up ahead. At this point it's rather daunting that you'll be at the top in fewer than three miles.
As you near the basin, you'll encounter a fork in the trail. The left goes towards Emerald Lake, while the right continues along the Timpooneke Trail towards the summit.
Following the trail, you'll begin to encounter some of the more apparent incline and your pace is likely to dip a bit.
As you climb to the top of the saddle, the trail becomes a bit more jagged and there are parts where only a single hiker can pass at a time. At the top of the saddle, hikers are treated to sweeping views of Utah Lake on the opposite side.
This is also where the wildlife tends to show up on the trail. We saw several chipmunks hoping for a hiker to drop a snack and then we saw roughly a dozen mountain goats roaming about. The goats seemed relatively unfazed by the hikers, but would encourage them to move along if they got too close.
As you continue along the saddle, the trail becomes a little more daunting. Without focus, one could easily slip and fall to the right.
With Provo and Orem to the right, you'll wrap to the left of the mountain. This is where the trail is probably toughest and many may choose to turn back. You'll gain quite a bit of elevation in a gap that may be no greater than 30 feet wide. Here, I'd recommend waiting for any foot traffic to subside so that you may focus and avoid any falling rocks stirred up by other hikers.
With some patience and steady footing, you're make it through this part in ten minutes. The trail then continues hugging the left of the mountain, with large drops to your right. There are spots where the trail may become unclear or you'll see multiple paths. Ultimately, they all seem to lead to the same spot, but you have to be conscientious of the falling scree from other hikers.
Eventually you'll reach a spot that has an epic view of the basin below. This may just be the best view of the hike, so you're drawn to stop and gaze for a bit. Once you've taken it in, it's time for the final ascent to the top.
The final part of the hike doesn't seem as difficult as the 30 minutes that preceded it. At this point, the adrenaline carries you to the top.
You'll see the small hut atop the mountain as a beacon for the end (or middle) of the hike. The path at this point is pretty clear and you're bound to see plenty of hikers coming to and from.
At the top, it will seem seem a bit more claustrophobic than you would expect at the top of an 11,000 foot mountain. You can explore the hut, finding it covered in graffiti and a pleasant scent of urine. Sign the logbook, snap a photo and go find an open space on the rock to take in the views!
The top is truly a joyous experience. You'll have 360 degree views all around, but my favorite view was of Emerald Lake below. On this bright, sunny day, the color of the water was an incredible teal.
Some at the top commented on seeing paragliders in the distance and another gentleman was actually going to ski down the opposite side of the mountain (in July!).
We began our journey back down the mountain and the first half was much easier than the way up. The final half of the trip down proved a bit more difficult as our legs were growing tired and temperatures were warming up fast.
We would eventually conclude our 15+ mile journey and be on our way. It was absolutely one of the most breathtaking hikes we've ever completed and will be eager to try some other routes to the top!
Know Before You Go
Free, but limited paved parking spots at the trailhead.
Extremely limited water sources on this hike, so bring plenty of fluids.
While there are shaded portions, most of the hike is exposed to the sun, bring hats and sunblock.
The trail is often uneven with loads of scree and talus, so be sure you have your footwear laced tight and hiking poles to help with balance.
The final mile could be daunting for some hikers with large drops below and falling rocks. If you're not seasoned or have fear of heights, this may be for you.
Resources
Video
Location
The road to the trailhead is off Utah State Route 92, also called the "Alpine Loop Scenic Byway." Route 92 is closed during the winter. The parking lot can become full very early in the morning, so you may have a wait for a spot or need to park further up the road.
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