Tag Archive: wasatch mountains

Wildflowers and South Peak of Timpanogos – Utah

Wildflowers and South Peak of Timpanogos - Utah

Wildflowers and South Peak of Timpanogos, Wasatch Mountains, Utah

Mt Timpanogos is an 11,752 ft peak in the Wasatch Mountain Range that rises above the surrounding Utah and Heber Valleys. Even though the shortest hike to its summit is more than 14 miles, it is one of the most hiked mountain peaks in the Rocky Mountains. The two primary trails to it summit are from Aspen Grove via Provo Canyon and the Alpine Loop near Sundance Resort, and the Timpooneke Campground in American Fork Canyon.

The mountain derives its name from a native american tribe that inhabited the area around the mountain at the time of the arrival of Mormon pioneers in Utah.

In addition to being a designated wilderness area, the mountain also hosts a national monument near its base, that was setup to protect beautiful cave system discovered by various individuals between 1887 and 1921.

It has been said that the mountain resembles a sleeping indian princess, and that its a legend that came from local tribes, but its more likely the tale as its known today came from Eugene Lusk “Timp” Roberts, a professor at Brigham Young University, who was trying to promote the mountain to the world. Roberts was also the creator of an annual one day hike that attracted thousands of people between 1911 and 1970. The hiking event was ultimately cancelled due to the damage done being to the mountain over the years.

Historic Heber Creeper Locomotive – Utah

Historic Heber Creeper Locomotive - Utah

The Heber Valley Railroad, also known as the Heber Creeper, is a historic tourist train that operates in the Heber Valley of Utah. The railroad offers scenic train rides through the beautiful Wasatch Mountains, allowing visitors to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape and experience a piece of Utah’s history.

The Heber Creeper runs on a 16-mile round-trip route between Heber City and Vivian Park in Provo Canyon. The train features vintage steam and diesel locomotives, as well as restored passenger cars from the early 20th century.

The train offers several different themed rides throughout the year, including seasonal rides such as the Pumpkin Train, North Pole Express, and Easter Bunny Train.