Provo, UT

From the number of cars traveling in either direction through the Alpine Loop on a typical fall afternoon, you’d think everyone already knows about this Utah Valley treasure. Assuming you’re the one soul reading this who’s not yet had the pleasure of this sublime must-do, it’s time for a road trip!

First, the list of essentials:
• At least one favorite road trip CD. George Winston’s “Autumn” would be an oh-so appropriate choice, but certainly not the only one, by any means. I recently discovered a little tune by Claude DeBussy called “The Girl With the Flaxen Hair” (as performed by Joshua Bell) that just might be the most perfect piece of fall loveliness ever set to music. But I digress…
• Munchies of your choice (why not a crisp apple picked up at the local fruit stand? Not trying to be your mom here, but well, you know…
• A camera!
• Someone you love to share lovely things with.
• Did I mention a camera? Just checking.

There is of course no one right way to drive the loop. There are two! You can either take the American Fork Canyon route, or the Provo Canyon to Sundance route. I would personally opt for the second, but that’s mostly due to my living in American Fork. Either way is sure to provide a wonderful and lasting memory (especially if you remembered that camera!)

If you’re driving south on I-15, take the Alpine/Highland exit 287 and drive east towards American Fork canyon. If you opt for the Provo canyon route, take the Orem 800 North exit #272. If you are driving up Provo Canyon, you’ll want to take the Highway 92/Sundance Resort exit. It’s just past the tunnel and will be a left turn.

If you’re driving in either direction, there is a pay station at the beginning of each end. Six dollars gets you a pass good for three days, but here’s an important thing to remember: if you’re driving through the canyon for the scenery without a plan to stop and use the recreation sites, you’re in for free! Just let the attendant know you’re driving through and they’ll send you along with a smile.

These photos don’t really begin to convey what a beautiful scene awaits you and your family. Every few hundred yards there are spots for you to pull off in either direction so you can use that camera you so wisely brought along. The “back side” of Mt. Timpanogos is, in my very humble opinion, her prettier side. Especially with those splashes of red, gold and orange that spread out before you.

Although tempted to wax poetical, I shall not succumb. I would direct you instead, dear reader, to search out Mr. Robert Frost’s masterpiece entitled “Nothing Gold Can Stay,” which you can then attempt to recite while driving around the Loop. You can thank me later for such wise advice.

The trip from gate to gate is only twenty miles. Heck, even with today’s gas prices you’re in and out for less than five bucks. Just be sure to get the kids (and your husband!) to turn off the iPod and enjoy the company as you experience the majestic Alpine Loop, right in our backyard.

My favorite moment is the surprise of coming around a corner and having wave after wave of autumnal splendor unfold before you. If it’s not too chilly, roll down the windows and breathe in the season. See you on the Loop. Better make it soon.