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

Journey Beneath the Peaks at Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Hike a steep trail to explore stunning underground limestone formations on guided tours.

Journey Beneath the Peaks at Timpanogos Cave National Monument

© Sved Oliver/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Timpanogos Cave National Monument?
  • What caves are part of the Timpanogos Cave system?
    • The cave system of Mount Timpanogos comprises three caves - the Timpanogos Cave, the Hansen Cave, and the Middle Cave - all of which are paved and fairly wide so that it is accessible to all visitors.
  • When is the monument open?
    • The monument is open seasonally dependent on the weather.
  • What is the best way to explore the caves?
    • The guided tours are the best way to view the caves and they allow you to see and learn so much along the way.
  • How are the caves connected?
    • The caves are connected by man-made tunnels, and within them you’ll see colorful features such as speleothems, helictites, calcites, and aragonites.
  • What is the contact information for Timpanogos Cave National Monument?
    • Address: 2038 Alpine Loop Rd, American Fork, UT 84003, Phone: 801-756-5239

Hike, Climb, and Explore Wild Beauty in American Fork Canyon

Scenic drive or hike through rugged mountain beauty, perfect for leaf peeping in fall.

Hike, Climb, and Explore Wild Beauty in American Fork Canyon

© jvezzani/stock.adobe.com

  • What is American Fork Canyon?
    • Named after the American Fork River, which runs through the bottom of the canyon, American Fork Canyon is a part of Utah’s famed Wasatch Mountains.
  • What notable attraction is located in American Fork Canyon?
    • Visitors come from far and wide to visit the Timpanogos Cave National Monument, which is located on the south side of the canyon.
  • What recreational activities can visitors enjoy?
    • The canyon is a wonderful place to explore and provides tons of opportunities for hiking, biking, horse riding, fishing, and camping.
  • What winter activities are available in American Fork Canyon?
    • During the winter months, visitors can also indulge in cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
  • What are some popular camping sites in the canyon?
    • They have several popular camping sites with stunning views such as North Mill, Salamander Flat, Holman Flat, and Little Mill.
  • What is the address for American Fork Canyon?
    • Address: American Fork Canyon Road, American Fork, UT 84003

Dodge, Sprint, and Strategize at SB Paintball’s Outdoor Arena

Dodge, Sprint, and Strategize at SB Paintball’s Outdoor Arena

© Sb Paintball

  • What is SB Paintball?
    • With two paintball fields spanning over 12,000 square feet, SB Paintball is a wonderful place for people of all ages to have fun.
  • Can SB Paintball accommodate groups?
    • They can accommodate groups of any size and provide a wonderful opportunity for friends, family, and coworkers to bond and have a good time.
  • Is there a low-impact paintball option?
    • If you’re there with little ones, you can opt for the low-impact option, which is about half the size and weight of a standard paintball.
  • What equipment is provided?
    • All of the equipment is provided, including the semi-automatic paintball gun, mask, gloves, and chest plates needed for extra protection.
  • What is the contact information for SB Paintball?
    • Address: 632 E. 1500 S. American Fork, UT 84003, Phone: 801-216-3755

Where to Eat

Grab a Charburger Fix Fast at The Habit Burger Grill

Grab a Charburger Fix Fast at The Habit Burger Grill

© Habit Burger

  • What is Habit Burger?
    • Habit Burger is a fast-food chain that serves gourmet-style burgers, deli-type sandwiches, salads, and sides.
  • Does Habit Burger offer seasonal menu items?
    • The menu is constantly changing to include seasonal favorites, for instance, the fresh berry and chargrilled chicken salad, the sriracha lime spicy green beans, and the blueberry citrus mint agua fresca.
  • How are the burgers prepared?
    • Their burgers are made with 100% fresh ground beef and are chargrilled over an open flame.
  • What are some popular burger options?
    • Popular options include the portabella charburger with mushrooms and roasted garlic aioli and the teriyaki charburger with grilled pineapple.
  • What sides are available?
    • Venture away from regular french fries and opt instead for onion rings, sweet potato fries, tempura green beans, or a side salad.
  • What is the contact information for Habit Burger?
    • Address: 232 NW State St #101, American Fork, UT 84003, Phone: 801-756-1453

Dig Into Bold, Authentic Flavor at Mi Ranchito Mexican Grill

Dig Into Bold, Authentic Flavor at Mi Ranchito Mexican Grill

© kellyvandellen/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Mi Ranchito Mexican Grill?
  • What is the atmosphere like at Mi Ranchito?
    • The comfy, family-friendly restaurant is a great place to visit and has a wonderful traditional decor that gives the restaurant a fun atmosphere.
  • How long has Mi Ranchito been in business?
    • Local and visiting patrons have been dining at Mi Ranchito since it opened in 1983.
  • Are the recipes traditional?
    • Much of the food still served today is based on the original recipes which were passed down in the family for generations.
  • What are some popular menu items?
    • Try their beef taco with a side of rice and beans, the chicken enchiladas with sour cream, or the mouthwatering beef and bean burrito.
  • What is the contact information for Mi Ranchito Mexican Grill?
    • Address: 390 E State Rd, American Fork, UT 84003, Phone: 801-756-6138

If You Crave Custom Tacos, Make a Stop at Cafe Rio

If You Crave Custom Tacos, Make a Stop at Cafe Rio

© Café Rio

  • What is Cafe Rio?
    • Cafe Rio is a self-serve eatery that resembles a feast surrounded by family and friends.
  • What type of cuisine does Cafe Rio serve?
    • The restaurant serves delicious Mexican classics that will satisfy even the most particular palate.
  • What are some must-try items on the menu?
    • Be sure to try a few of their renowned hand-rolled tortillas, burritos, and tacos.
  • What are some popular dishes?
    • Their burrito bowls and enchiladas are a crowd favorite. The hand-made tortilla is stuffed full of your choice of meat, black or pinto beans, cheese, and cilantro-lime rice and then baked to perfection in the oven.
  • What meats are available?
    • Meats include shredded chicken, fire-grilled chicken, sweet pork barbacoa, spicy green chile pork, chile roasted beef, fire-grilled steak, or the fire-grilled salmon.
  • What is the contact information for Cafe Rio?
    • Address: 821 NW State Street, American Fork, UT 84003, Phone: 801-756-9088

More Local Attractions

  • Evermore Park – Immersive fantasy adventure park nearby with live performers, interactive quests, and seasonal events.
  • Utah Lake – Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching just a short drive from town.
  • American Fork Amphitheater – Outdoor venue hosting summer concerts, plays, and community events.

Local Events

  • Steel Days Festival (July) – American Fork’s signature summer celebration with a parade, carnival, rodeo, and fireworks.
  • Concerts in the Park (Summer) – Weekly outdoor music performances at the amphitheater during warm-weather months.
  • American Fork Farmers Market (June–October) – Fresh produce, crafts, and local treats at Robinson Park.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of American Fork, Utah

  • Lehi (10–15 min) – Visit Thanksgiving Point, explore the Museum of Natural Curiosity, or stroll the Jordan River Parkway Trail.
  • Pleasant Grove (5–10 min) – Hike Battle Creek Falls, attend local festivals, or shop historic Main Street.
  • Lindon (10–15 min) – Enjoy quiet parks, bike the Murdock Canal Trail, or relax at a local vineyard or orchard.
  • Highland (10–15 min) – Explore mountain biking trails, visit quiet neighborhoods, or picnic in Highland Glen Park.
  • Cedar Hills (10–15 min) – Access American Fork Canyon, enjoy scenic golf courses, or hike nearby foothills.
  • Eagle Mountain (North Side) (25–30 min) – Visit local farms, explore pony trails, or enjoy wide open desert views.
  • Saratoga Springs (20–25 min) – Relax at hot springs, walk Utah Lake trails, or play at waterfront parks.
  • Orem (North Side) (20–25 min) – Shop University Place, visit local museums, or enjoy dining and family fun spots.
  • Draper (South Side) (25–30 min) – Hike the Corner Canyon trails, explore the aquarium, or ride the alpine slide at Suncrest.

FAQ

  • Q: Where is American Fork located?
  • A: American Fork is situated at the foot of Mount Timpanogos in the Wasatch Mountain Range in Utah.
  • Q: What is the history of American Fork?
  • A: Originally the home of Ute Indians who used the area for hunting and fishing, American Fork became a settlement for Mormon pioneers in the 1850s, with residents focusing on farming, mining, and retailing.
  • Q: What attractions can visitors see in American Fork today?
  • A: Visitors can explore several natural and manmade attractions, including the American Fork Canyon and the Timpanogos Cave National Monument.

At a Glance


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Holiday Inn Express & Suites American Fork – A comfortable stay with easy highway access. Visit Timpanogos Cave National Monument – Hike up to explore fascinating limestone caves.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for outdoor activities. Hyatt House Provo/Pleasant Grove – A modern and convenient option near American Fork. Explore American Fork Canyon – Hike, fish, or drive the scenic Alpine Loop.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning fall foliage. Best Western Timpanogos Inn – A cozy stay with great amenities. Take a scenic drive on the Alpine Loop – Experience breathtaking autumn colors.

Plan Your Trip