Tibble Fork Reservoir is up American Fork Canyon and one of my family’s favorites! It is nestled around by pines and mountain views.
This is a great place for fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding or other water activities. Motor boats are not allowed, however.
The beach is mostly dirt, but there is some sand on the area across from the dam. There is a somewhat accessible pier (they haven put it up the last few years). When the water level is high, the slope isn’t too steep, but when the water drops, it gets pretty steep. At the end of the pier they have a couple kayak launches that hold the kayak steady for someone to climb in. With help, someone in a wheelchair could potentially access this, but alone could probably only go on the sidewalk.
There are also hiking trails that begin at Tibble Fork Reservoir. There is a trail that goes around the lake, but it is really steep and precarious in parts. Tibble Fork Loop, Tibble Fork Trail and Silver Flat Lake Trail are better options.
Photographers love taki bridals and family photos on the hill across the parking lot. it’s especially stunning in late May and early June!
Tibble Fork is also a popular winter destination. There is hiking, sledding, ice fishing, and snowmobiling. The road is still plowed to just above the reservoir. Here are some photos of the beauty of it covered in snow.
As with all frozen lakes, please be very careful about walking out on the ice. Even if others are doing it, it may not be safe. Here is a view that shows more about how many people were there.
Tibble Fork was also an awesome location for some Milky Way Photography! I took these in June 2021! For more about star photography click here.
I also photographed the Perseid’s Meteor Shower there.
The hillside next to Tibble Fork is a popular place for photos, especially in late spring.
Stats: Distance – 0-4 miles roundtrip depending on hike
Approximate hiking time – 0-4 hours
Elevation gain – 0-1115 feet
Difficulty – Easy/Moderate/Difficult
Trail – well maintained trail of dirt and rocks
Bathrooms – Yes
Seasons to hike – May-October (snowshoeing/micro-spikes in winter)
Permits needed – $6 day pass per vehicle or National Parks Pass
Pets allowed – Yes
Tibble Fork Loop Hike:
Silver Lake Flat Trail:
