The Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple is one of the most recognizable temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in American Fork, Utah, with majestic Mount Timpanogos rising in the background, it was the ninth temple built in Utah, the second temple in Utah County, and the 49th dedicated temple of the Church. Known for its elegant granite exterior, impressive size, and breathtaking mountain views, it has become one of the busiest temples in the world.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple during the October 1992 General Conference on October 3, 1992. At the time, he explained that the temple would help relieve the tremendous demand on the nearby Provo Utah Temple, which had long been operating beyond its intended capacity.
Six months after the announcement, the Church revealed the temple would be built on a former Church welfare farm in American Fork. Groundbreaking and site dedication took place on October 9, 1993, with President Gordon B. Hinckley presiding. During the ceremony, approximately 12,000 people attended, and President Hinckley also announced the future Madrid Spain Temple.
Construction lasted nearly three years. During the 46-day public open house from August 6 through September 21, 1996, an astonishing 679,217 visitors toured the temple before its dedication. President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple during 27 dedicatory sessions held from October 13–19, 1996, making it the 49th dedicated temple of the Church.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple's most distinctive features is its spectacular setting. The temple sits west of the towering 11,750-foot Mount Timpanogos, creating one of the most photographed temple backdrops in the Church. Throughout the seasons, colorful landscaping and mountain scenery make the grounds especially beautiful.
The temple was designed as an adaptation of the Bountiful Utah Temple floor plan but on a larger scale. The building contains approximately 107,240 square feet and includes four instruction rooms, eight sealing rooms, and a baptistry, allowing it to accommodate the heavy temple attendance generated by the rapidly growing communities of northern Utah County.
Another memorable moment in the temple's history occurred on July 17, 1995, when a 13-foot-3-inch gold-leafed angel Moroni statue was placed atop the temple's 190-foot central spire. An estimated 20,000 people gathered to witness the event, and after the statue was secured, the crowd spontaneously sang The Spirit of God.
Visiting the Temple
The Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple is located at 742 North 900 East in American Fork, Utah. The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, patron housing, or an on-site distribution center. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds, winding walkways, and impressive mountain views surrounding the temple.
Fun Facts
- Ninth temple built in Utah.
- Second temple built in Utah County.
- 49th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on October 3, 1992.
- Groundbreaking held on October 9, 1993.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on October 13–19, 1996.
- Public open house lasted 46 days and welcomed 679,217 visitors.
- Built on a 16.7-acre property.
- Approximately 107,240 square feet.
- Features four instruction rooms, eight sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with Sierra white granite, art glass windows, and bronze doors.
- Central spire rises 190 feet and is topped with a 13-foot-3-inch angel Moroni statue.
Final Thoughts
The Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple has blessed hundreds of thousands of Latter-day Saints since its dedication in 1996. Its striking architecture, remarkable mountain setting, and important role in serving northern Utah County have made it one of the Church's most beloved temples. Whether you're attending an ordinance or simply walking the peaceful grounds, the Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple is an unforgettable stop on any temple journey.
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