Hiking Utah’s Mount Timpanogos: Why Aspen Grove Trail Won Me Over by Jared Harding Wilson

By Jared Harding Wilson

A Memorable Hike to the Top of Mount Timpanogos: My Aspen Grove Journey

Starting the Aspen Grove Trail at 4:06 A.M., with bright stars and the planets Venus and Jupiter shining above, I felt ready for a big day on Mount Timpanogos. My friends and I were excited for the challenge, and the clear night sky added a special touch as we began. This was my first time hiking Timp from the Aspen Grove side, after summiting three times via the Timpooneke Trail. I think I might prefer Aspen Grove now! With waterfalls, mountain goats, and a quick dip in Emerald Lake, this hike was one to remember.

The Trails: Aspen Grove vs. Timpooneke

Mount Timpanogos, at 11,752 feet in Utah’s Wasatch Range, has two main trails to the summit. The Aspen Grove Trail, starting at 6,910 feet near Sundance Resort, is a 13.9-mile round trip with about 4,860–5,557 feet of elevation gain. It’s steeper, with waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and spots like Emerald Lake and Hidden Lakes basin. You’ll navigate switchbacks, stream crossings, and a rocky boulder field before joining the Timpooneke Trail at the saddle for the final climb.

The Timpooneke Trail, starting at 7,360 feet in American Fork Canyon, is a bit longer at 14.2–14.8 miles with 4,389–4,668 feet of elevation gain. It’s less steep, winding through forests and meadows with views of Scout Falls and wildlife like mountain goats and deer. It has fewer water sources and can feel hotter due to sun exposure. I enjoyed Timpooneke’s smoother climb on my three previous hikes, but Aspen Grove’s waterfalls and rugged path felt more engaging this time.

Our Journey: A Group Effort

We started in the dark, our headlamps on as Venus and Jupiter glowed above until around 7 A.M., when dawn took over. The trail began with a paved section through aspen and fir trees, then led to the first of two waterfalls—likely First Falls—sparkling in the early light. The steady climb through switchbacks kept us moving, with views of cliffs and valleys opening up.

Halfway up, we hit a boulder field we called the “Valley of Mordor” because it was tough to cross. A friend joked that it felt harder than anything in a movie, and we laughed as we picked our way through the rocks. It was challenging but fun, with great views of the surrounding peaks.

At the saddle—we nicknamed “the cafeteria” since everyone stops to eat—we took a break to snack and look out over Utah Valley and Utah Lake. We saw mountain goats, including their cute babies, walking right by us before heading down a steep, narrow ledge like it was nothing. Pikas, those small animals with squeaky calls that inspired the name “Pikachu,” were scampering around too—a cool Utah connection to Pokémon. Chipmunks, squirrels, and starlings kept the trail lively.

The last mile to the summit was steep, but we stuck together, making sure everyone in our group made it. It took effort, but getting to the top as a team felt great. At the summit, we found the Timpanogos Shelter, a small shack where hikers sign their names. I added mine and took some photos, enjoying the views of Utah Lake, Provo Canyon, and the Wasatch peaks. My iPhone and Apple Watch died partway down (more on that later), but I got plenty of shots first.

The Descent: Running Down and a Cold Dip

Once I knew everyone reached the summit, I decided to run down alone. Using my arms for balance, I navigated loose rocks and ledges, making it back to the car in about 2.5 hours—a good time for me compared to the usual 9–12-hour hike. Running was fun but took focus; I slowed down on tricky sections and gave other hikers space.

On the way down, I stopped at Emerald Lake, stripped to my shorts, and jumped in. The water was freezing, like a sharp sting all over, but it felt amazing afterward. I’d recommend trying an alpine lake dip if you’re up for a quick, chilly thrill.

Tips for Your Timpanogos Hike

This hike was awesome, and I learned a few things to share:

• Stick Together: We made sure our whole group reached the summit, pacing ourselves so no one was left behind. It made the day even better.
• Pack Light: One friend’s heavy backpack slowed them down. Bring just what you need: 3–4 liters of water, snacks like Clif Bars or Stinger Waffles, and layers for the windy summit. My knock-off CamelBak with a straw was great for drinking on the go, but I wish it had more snack space.
• Save Your Battery: I left AllTrails running, and it killed my iPhone and Apple Watch before the hike ended. Bring a small external battery charger for navigation and photos.
• Use Trekking Poles: The boulder field and steep parts are easier with poles, especially if there’s snow. Good hiking shoes with grip are a must.
• Start Early: Our 4:06 A.M. start meant we enjoyed the stars, Venus, and Jupiter, plus a great sunrise. It also helped us beat the crowds and heat. Parking at Aspen Grove fills up fast on weekends, so get there early.
• Be Considerate: When running downhill, slow down on loose rocks, stay clear of edges, and give hikers space. Follow Leave No Trace to keep the trail clean.
• Try an Alpine Dip: A quick jump into Emerald Lake or another alpine lake is cold but worth it for the rush—just brace yourself!
• Handle the Altitude: At nearly 12,000 feet, the air is thin. My half-marathon training helped, but go slow if you’re not used to it.
• Extra bonus points: If you want to experience both trails at once on the same day, a friend of mine, With, his friends parked one car at the Timpooneke Trailhead, and drove over to the to Alpine Grove for the Timpanogos Trail, starting one, and finishing at the other end.

Final Thoughts: A Hike to Remember

Hiking Mount Timpanogos via Aspen Grove was a great adventure, with starry skies, mountain goats, and a refreshing dip in Emerald Lake. Working together to reach the summit and running down made it special. Compared to Timpooneke, Aspen Grove’s steeper trail and waterfalls felt more exciting, though both are worth doing. Pack light, start early, and enjoy the journey—maybe even try a lake dip! Have you hiked Timpanogos? Which trail do you like, and what’s your best tip? Share below—I’d love to hear about your hikes!

Photos by Jared Harding Wilson. All rights reserved.