Looking for mountain views, rich pioneer history, and family-friendly charm? Visit American Fork, Utah! Set at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, this Utah Valley town offers outdoor adventure, scenic drives, and a close-knit vibe. Whether you’re hiking into canyons or exploring caves, American Fork is a great base for fun year-round.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit American Fork is during spring through fall (April to October) when the weather is mild and perfect for hiking, biking, and scenic drives. Winters are cold with occasional snow, offering access to nearby ski resorts and cozy indoor activities.
How to Get There
- By Car: American Fork is located just off I-15, about 30 minutes south of Salt Lake City and 20 minutes north of Provo.
- By Air: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the nearest major airport, with rental cars and shuttle options available.
- By Train: UTA’s FrontRunner commuter rail connects American Fork with Salt Lake City and other Utah Valley towns.
Where to Stay
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites American Fork – Convenient chain hotel with a pool, breakfast, and easy freeway access.
- Hyatt House Provo/Pleasant Grove – Modern, extended-stay option with mountain views, just minutes away.
- Local Vacation Rentals – Find cozy homes and condos near trails and attractions through Airbnb or Vrbo.
Top Attractions
1. Journey Beneath the Peaks at Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Rating: ★★★★★
Location: American Fork, UT
Recommended For: Geology enthusiasts, families, hikers, photographers, and National Park adventurers.
What I Love: ♥ "The hike is scenic, the caves are surreal, and the formations feel like nature’s artwork—this is one of those hidden gems that leaves a lasting impression."
- Tour the three interconnected caves—Timpanogos, Hansen, and Middle—via paved, accessible paths guided by expert rangers.
- Marvel at vivid cave features like speleothems, helictites, calcites, and aragonites illuminated along man-made tunnels.
- Explore the monument seasonally with guided tours that make the journey both educational and unforgettable.
Cost: Entrance to the monument is free; cave tours require advance reservations and ticket purchase. Visit the NPS website for current rates.
Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall, depending on weather—check the NPS site for seasonal opening dates and availability.
Local tips: Be prepared for a steep 1.5-mile hike to reach the cave entrance. Bring water, good walking shoes, and a light jacket—it gets cool inside the caves.
How to Get to Timpanogos Cave National Monument: From I-15, take Exit 284 and drive east on UT-92 through American Fork Canyon. Follow signs to the visitor center and trailhead located along the Alpine Loop Road.
Address: 2038 Alpine Loop Rd, American Fork, UT 84003
Phone: 801-756-5239
2. Hike, Climb, and Explore Wild Beauty in American Fork Canyon
Location: American Fork, UT
Recommended For: Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, families, anglers, snow adventurers, and photographers.
What I Love: ♥ "From warm-weather hikes to snowy wonderland treks, American Fork Canyon offers four seasons of stunning alpine beauty and adventure."
- Hike through scenic trails that wind along the American Fork River, perfect for day hikes or backcountry treks.
- Camp at breathtaking sites like North Mill, Salamander Flat, Holman Flat, and Little Mill under starlit Wasatch skies.
- Play all year—go mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and rock climbing in summer, or enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.
Cost: A recreation fee is required for canyon access. Purchase daily or annual passes through the U.S. Forest Service website or at local stations.
Best time to visit: Summer through fall for hiking and camping; winter for snow sports and peaceful snowy vistas.
Local tips: Start early to beat the crowds. Cell service is limited, so download maps ahead of time and be bear-aware when camping or hiking.
How to Get to American Fork Canyon: From I-15, take Exit 284 and drive east on UT-92 through American Fork. Follow signs into the canyon along American Fork Canyon Road.
3. Dodge, Sprint, and Strategize at SB Paintball’s Outdoor Arena
Location: American Fork, UT
Recommended For: Families, friend groups, birthday parties, team-building events, and adrenaline seekers.
What I Love: ♥ "Whether you’re diving behind cover or laughing with teammates, SB Paintball makes every shot count in a fun, safe environment for all ages."
- Play on two massive indoor paintball fields totaling over 12,000 square feet of thrilling terrain.
- Compete with friends, family, or coworkers in fast-paced games that encourage teamwork and fun.
- Relax knowing all equipment is included—from semi-automatic markers to gloves and chest plates—so you just show up and play.
- Choose low-impact paintball for younger players, offering a gentler introduction to the action-packed sport.
Cost: Varies by group size and game type. Visit the SB Paintball website for current pricing and packages.
Best time to visit: Weekends and holidays are most popular—book ahead for group events or private play sessions.
Local tips: Wear loose, layered clothing for comfort and mobility, and arrive early to get fully geared up before your session starts.
How to Get to SB Paintball: Take I-15 to Exit 276 (500 East). Follow 500 East south, turn left onto 1500 South, and look for SB Paintball at 632 E. 1500 S.
Address: 632 E. 1500 S, American Fork, UT 84003, Phone: 801-216-3755
Where to Eat
4. Grab a Charburger Fix Fast at The Habit Burger Grill
Location: American Fork, UT
Recommended For: Burger lovers, families, fast-casual diners, and anyone craving fresh, flavorful options.
What I Love: ♥ “Every burger is flame-grilled to perfection and packed with gourmet flavor—this isn’t your average fast food.”
- Enjoy freshly prepared gourmet burgers like the Portabella Charburger or Teriyaki Charburger with grilled pineapple.
- Explore a seasonal menu that features innovative sides and drinks like sriracha lime green beans and blueberry citrus mint agua fresca.
- Choose from a wide variety of chargrilled sandwiches, fresh salads, and hearty sides.
- Substitute traditional fries for sweet potato fries, tempura green beans, or a crisp side salad.
Cost: Affordable fast-casual pricing. Most meals are under $15 per person.
Best time to visit: Lunchtime and early evenings are popular—visit mid-afternoon for shorter wait times.
Local tips: Try their limited-time seasonal menu items before they’re gone and customize any burger to your liking.
How to Get to Habit Burger: Located just off I-15 at Exit 276, head northwest on State Street. Habit Burger is near major shopping centers and easy to spot.
Address: 232 NW State St #101, American Fork, UT 84003, Phone: 801-756-1453
5. Dig Into Bold, Authentic Flavor at Mi Ranchito Mexican Grill
Location: American Fork, UT
Recommended For: Families, lovers of authentic Mexican food, casual diners, and anyone craving hearty traditional flavors.
What I Love: ♥ “Since 1983, Mi Ranchito has served up comforting family recipes in a festive and welcoming setting.”
- Feast on authentic Mexican favorites made from generations-old family recipes.
- Experience a fun, family-friendly atmosphere complete with traditional Mexican decor.
- Enjoy popular dishes like the beef taco plate, chicken enchiladas with sour cream, or the savory beef and bean burrito.
- Celebrate decades of delicious tradition—Mi Ranchito has been delighting diners since 1983.
Cost: Budget-friendly and generous portions. Most entrees are under $15.
Best time to visit: Weekday evenings are great for shorter wait times; weekends are popular with families.
Local tips: Pair your meal with their house-made salsa and don’t skip the rice and beans—they’re a local favorite.
How to Get to Mi Ranchito: Conveniently located on State Road in American Fork, near local shops and other eateries—just a short drive off I-15.
Address: 390 E State Rd, American Fork, UT 84003, Phone: 801-756-6138
6. If You Crave Custom Tacos, Make a Stop at Cafe Rio
Location: American Fork, UT
Recommended For: Families, casual diners, Mexican food lovers, and anyone craving fast, flavorful, made-to-order meals.
What I Love: ♥ “From hand-rolled tortillas to slow-roasted meats, Cafe Rio is a fiesta of bold flavors and fresh ingredients.”
- Build your meal from scratch with freshly made tortillas, slow-cooked meats, and zesty toppings.
- Try crowd-pleasers like burrito bowls, enchiladas, and tacos, all made with love and flavor.
- Choose from a variety of meats including sweet pork barbacoa, spicy green chile pork, or fire-grilled salmon.
- Enjoy the vibrant, fast-casual setting that feels like a celebration with family and friends.
Cost: Affordable, with most meals under $12 and portions big enough to share.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon or early evening for shorter lines—lunch hour gets busy!
Local tips: Don’t skip the creamy tomatillo dressing and house-made horchata—they’re local favorites.
How to Get to Cafe Rio: Located on NW State Street, just off I-15—easy to access and close to major shops.
Address: 821 NW State Street, American Fork, UT 84003, Phone: 801-756-9088
Plan Your Trip