Mt. Timpanogos Aspen Grove Trail

The day use fee to get into Mount Timpanogos Wilderness Area will be the best $8 you spend this year. Paying the day use fee gets you access to multiple parking lots and the trails that branch off from them. If you're looking for the classic Mount Timpanogos experience, look no further than the Aspen Grove Trail. You can find it right off the parking lot by the same name, so it's easy to find the right place. 

The Aspen Grove Trail is a tough hike, but the gorgeous views make it worth it. If you're traveling during the peak season of May to September, you should plan your hike accordingly. Parking can be difficult to secure, and the trail can be crowded on holidays and weekends. If you prefer it to be just you and man's best friend, a weekday hike is more likely to give you the solitude you crave. 

The hike itself is technically challenging. Sturdy hiking boots will see you from the path's easy lakeside strolling to the saddle and peak. In addition to being a trek to the top of the mountain, the Aspen Grove Trail takes you past the Emerald Lakes. These small lakes do shine green, and make a gorgeous halfway point in your hike. Take a rest by the water and gather yourself before continuing on. You'll face the steepest inclines on the other side of the lakes. The last quarter of the trail is quite challenging, but it takes you to the summit of Mount Timpanogos! This area is so challenging that the park warns you with signs and notes on maps not to cut through switchbacks on your way down. If you leave the sturdy and stable trail, you could be putting yourself at risk of sliding all the way down to the bottom! 

If you're ready to take your dog on the best day outside (and it is an all day affair), the Aspen Trail is the best way to see the area!