This modular visitor center, in use at Timpanogos Cave National Monument since a fire in February 1991 destroyed the original center and administration offices, will be replaced/NPS file

Timpanogos Cave National Monument in Utah is closing earlier than normal this year, on September 3, so construction can get under way on a new visitor center. The facility will replace a modular building that was installed as an emergency replacement immediately after an accidental electrical fire destroyed the visitor center and administrative offices in February of 1991.

The new facility, to be built by a Salt Lake City construction company, is expected to be completed early next June. The park will offer its final cave tours of the 2018 season and close its current visitor center for good on Monday, September 3. The Cave Trail will be closed to hikers after September 3 to ensure safety in and around the construction site.

Tickets for the rest of the season can be purchased up to 30 days in advance through www.recreation.gov.

The park’s Swinging Bridge Picnic Area and the Canyon Nature Trail will remain open as normal, but drivers on State Route 92 through the park can expect periodic short term delays and traffic control around the construction site. The project will also include realignment of a short section of State Route 92, new parking configuration, and an improved rock fall barrier fence above the parking lot.