A Utah woman continues to recover in the hospital after a rock hit her in the head while she was hiking on the Timpanogos Cave trail earlier this month.
National Park Week officially begins this weekend across the United States with special programs, activities, and free access to all of the most popular parks.
On Sunday, officials at Timpanogos Cave National Monument announced long-time, part-timer, Ranger Jay Allen, has retired. The weekend marked the first without Allen greeting visitors and giving cave tours, according to officials. Allen began working at Timpanogos Cave National Monument in 1968. "He has even occasionally been caught dressed and telling stories as American Fork Canyon historical figure George Tyng," monument officials said in a.
On April 5, Gov. Spencer Cox declared April Dark Sky Month in Utah. Though you wouldn’t know it from the light-polluted urban centers, Utah is actually one of the best places in the world to observe the night sky, no telescope required. The state’s declaration committed to preserving dark sky places plus the health benefits and tourist dollars they bring.
Utah has 23 locations accredited by the International Dark Sky Association. The sheer number of dark sky parks in Utah the highest concentration in the world makes Utah an unofficial stargazing capital. Recognition from the IDA isn’t a simple task. Officials go through a lengthy application process to earn the distinction, which, according to the association, goes to “land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage and/or public enjoyment.”