Alpine Scenic Loop In American Fork Canyon

Nature's majesty and beauty abound on the Alpine Scenic Loop in American Fork Canyon. Driving this mountain tarmac will seem magical as breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains and canyon come alive with color and depth.  

Locals fondly refer to the route as The Loop, which spans 20 miles of pristine forests and meadows. The views change with the seasons, offering dazzling spectacles of the American Fork Canyon for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers. 

The loop begins at the mouth of American Fork Canyon on SR-92 at 5,000 feet elevation and crests at 8,000 feet.

Alpine Scenic Loop in American Fork Canyon was established in the 1930s as part of the Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal program designed to combat unemployment during the Great Depression. 

The construction was significant, demonstrating human ingenuity and persistence against formidable natural challenges.

Driving the loop, you'll note the canyon's geologic formations that tell a compelling story of Earth's history. The granite peaks, sedimentary layers, and abundant fossil records provide valuable insights into the processes that shaped the vast area.

Regarding wildlife, the American Fork Canyon is a treasure trove of biodiversity. It's a splendid showcase of Utah's unique fauna, from mule deer and moose to foxes and various bird species. 

The canyon is also home to Timpanogos Cave National Monument. This fascinating underground world is adorned with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, helictites, and more.

Every twist and turn of the Alpine Scenic Loop in American Fork Canyon reveals a new panorama and wonder. It's the perfect destination for your Heber City vacation, offering an immersive travel experience to last a lifetime.

Fun Facts & Cool Features

Aside from the grand views and jaw-dropping panorama along the Alpine Scenic Loop is the awe-inspiring Timpanogos Cave National Monument. 

Visitors can embark on an insightful guided tour through a labyrinth of stunning underground caverns adorned with vibrant, crystal-studded stalactites and stalagmites. 

It needs to be noted how valiant the efforts were of the men with the CCC who engineered and built The Loop. They were tasked in 1933 with the monumental challenge of creating a road that would respect and highlight the area's natural integrity. After years of laborious work, the Alpine Scenic Loop was completed in 1935. 

Traversing the scenic loop during late spring and early summer rewards visitors with the abundance of vividly colored wildflowers. The blooming flowers are an exhilarating visual, with hues of vivid purples, fiery oranges, and brilliant yellows dotting the landscape. 

Furthermore, the Alpine Scenic Loop is also a dynamic wildlife hub. It's common to spot mule deer, elk, and moose in their natural habitat. 

Ornithologists will covet this trek as bird-watching is top-notch on The Loop. Keep an eye out for the American Kestrel, the smallest falcon in North America, known to inhabit this area.

Getting There

If you're traveling from Heber City, Utah, here are the step-by-step directions to reach the Alpine Scenic Loop in American Fork Canyon:

• Start on US-40 W from Heber City.
• Take the exit onto US-189 S toward Provo.
• Continue on US-189 S. Take E 800 N and N 100 E to E State St in Pleasant Grove.
• Follow N 100 E and E 500 N to US-189 S in Orem.
• Continue on US-189 S to your destination in Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.

Cost

Below are the fees to driving the Alpine Scenic Loop:

• Day-use pass: $6.00 per vehicle
• Seven-day pass: $12 per vehicle
• Annual pass: $45.00 per vehicle
• Golden Age and Access Passport: $3.00 per vehicle

Please note that prices are subject to change. Be sure to check their website for any updates.