Heber Valley Historic Railroad Utah

Utah is home to the historic Heber Valley Railroad, one of Heber Valley’s most popular attractions. Covering 16 miles between Heber Valley and Vivian Park in Provo Canyon, this scenic railroad takes you on a ride to the edge of Deer Creek Reservoir. The round-trip excursion lasts about three hours and is open year-round, depending on the weather.

The railroad line dates back to 1899 when it was used for freight and passenger service until abandoned in the late 1960s. From 1970 until the railroad was run as a tourist attraction called the “Heber Creeper” until it closed in 1990. In 1993 it started service again as the Heber Valley Historic Railroad.

Provo Canyon Limited Excursion Train

Book a ride on the Provo Canyon Limited – 3 hours of scenic bliss. Hop on board the Provo Canyon Limited at the Heber Train Depo and takes a scenic ride around the shores of the Deer Creek Reservoir. From there, they follow the Provo River to Vivian Park.

There is a short stop at the park before returning to the depot. You can also look forward to cowboy fun aboard the train with a staged train robbery! The highlights of this ride are the scenic views of Mount Timpanogos and the Provo Canyon.

Deer Creek Express – a shorter ride

The Deer Creek Express offers a 90-minute ride from the Heber Valley Railroad Depot. It follows the shoreline of Deer Creek Reservoir to Decker Bay before rewinding its way with a brief stop at the Soldier Hollow Platform, where there is a staged train robbery.

Heber Valley Historic Railroad Raft N Rails

Begin on a train – end on a raft: The ‘Raft N Rails’ Experience. If you’re looking for something adventurous in your Heber Valley experience, sign up for the ‘Raft N Rails’ experience. This is a half-day excursion that includes a train ride and a rafting adventure.

The rafting adventure begins at the Heber Valley Railroad Depot. The train travels to the Deer Creek Dam, where the rafting adventure begins. The Provo River is about six miles and includes several rapids. Rafts are landed at Vivian Park, where a bus transports rafters back to the depot. Raft N Rails trains run on select days from May to the end of September.

Seasonal Train Rides

While the regular train rides are available to experience on schedule, several special events are organized by the Heber Valley Railroad. Wild West Days train rides include fun western sing-alongs, dances, and old-west fun. Another popular excursion is the 4th of July Freedom Train.

If you happen to visit during August, there is a Murder Mystery Train. Enjoy an amazingly comical murder mystery on board the train ride that lasts 2 hours. The late evening train ride features performers who ensure you have a good time.

Getting to the Heber Valley Historic Railroad

The railroad is 50 miles from Salt Lake City at 450 S 6th W, Heber City, Utah. Check the railroad’s website for information on excursions and special event days. Heber City offers numerous dining and hotel options.

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