The Mount Timpanogos Legend came to my mind early this week when I looked up and saw the “Sleeping Woman” dusted with snow. It’s a bit early to be seeing snow… but the weather man says it’s just a blip… thank goodness… because I’m certainly not ready for winter.

I had my two grandson’s with me… Glade and Randall… and since she was so obvious… laying up there in all her splendor, it was a good time to point her out and tell them of her story.

There are many tales surrounding her death… but it all boils down to this: An Indian maiden named Utana, (or Ucanogos) was waiting to rendezvous with her lover, Red Eagle, (or Timpanac) when he was killed…some say by a bear… and other say he was ambushed by jealous warriors. None the less, Utana was so grieved by his death, she climbed to the summit of the mountain and laid down and died.

This beautiful view is from my side of the mountain. As I step out my front door, or run errands, I can look up and see her sleeping at any time. I’m so use to seeing her there, I take for granted her beauty and the grandeur of this great mountain.

From the backside of Mount Timpanogos, you see her again, reversed and in a different pose… but she’s there just the same… with her long tresses flowing down the mountain side. The view of the great white glacier is spectacular from that point of view. Below the glacier is beautiful Emerald lake… where it is said… Red Eagle’s body resides. My sister Sheila, lives on the back side of Timp and enjoys that view daily. The famous Sundance Resort is also nestled on the backside… at the base of this great edifice.

Because of the couple’s great love for each other, Mount Timpanogos has bequeathed a cave in their honor. In the center of the cave, is a great heart that represents the entwined hearts of Utana and Red Eagle. Timpanogos Cave can be entered from American Fork canyon. It ‘s a steep little climb but well worth seeing.

Just thought you’d like to know.

Till Later

Kathy Griffiths

Insightfulnana

P.S. I look to Mount Timpanogos for the changing of the seasons. I love her in January, when she’s fully covered with snow. I love her in the spring, when the snow begins to melt… a sure sign winter is over.