The Heber Valley Historic Railroad is Utah’s only operating heritage railroad and a popular family-friendly attraction in Heber City, about 45 minutes east of Salt Lake City. The train’s route covers 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 it was abandoned in the late 1960s. In the 1970s, the railroad was run as a tourist attraction called the “Heber Creeper.” It operated until it closed in 1990. In 1993, it started service again as the Heber Valley Historic Railroad. Today, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains, the Provo River, agricultural farmlands, and Deer Creek Reservoir.
Train Rides on The Huber Valley
A typical round-trip ride lasts about 90 minutes and covers approximately 16 miles of track, departing from the historic Heber Depot located at 450 South 600 West in Heber City. The journey feels like stepping back into the “Golden Years” of American railroading, which spans from the 1880s to the 1920s. During the ride, conductors punch tickets by hand, and onboard narration highlights the history of the area.
Excursions:
Deer Creek Express (90 minutes): A year-round scenic loop along Deer Creek Reservoir, featuring mountain views and wildlife spotting. Operated most days at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:30 PM.
Lakeside Limited (90 minutes): This train operates during the fall and winter, following a route along the reservoir’s west bank that highlights the autumn colors. It runs on weekends and select weekdays.
Provo Canyon Limited (90–120 minutes): Spring/summer extension into Provo Canyon to Vivian Park, following the Provo River.
Tips for Your Visit
Trains are not air-conditioned during the summer but are heated in the winter. Restrooms are available in most cars. Snacks and drinks can be purchased onboard or at the gift shop at the depot.
Wheelchair access is limited due to the historic equipment; call ahead for accommodations.
Pets are not allowed (service animals only), and large items like strollers or car seats must be checked.
Arrive at least 30 minutes early, as trains depart on time, and pre-assigned seating is standard—request group seating 24 hours in advance.
Routes and Schedules: All rides start and end at the Heber Depot unless noted. Schedules vary by season and can change due to weather or maintenance; check the official website for real-time updates.
Children under one ride free on most scenic trains (exceptions for themed events). Active-duty military and veterans get free rides on select scenic trains, with 50% off for immediate family.
Book online via the official website or by phone; advance purchase is recommended, especially for weekends.
Seasonal Train Rides & Events
Pumpkin Train (Early October): 40-minute ride with onboard games, a pumpkin chocolate chip cookie, and pumpkin picking at the depot. Prices have remained unchanged for 10 years—great for families.
Halloween Express (Late September–October): 90-minute adventure to “Grim Hollow” with characters and mild scares; family-oriented and expected to sell out.
Other Year-Round Options: Wild West Days (May), Chocolate Lovers Train, Rock N’ Roll Train, and Easter Bunny rides.
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.
Utah Adventure Road Trip Ideas
Homestead Crater Heber Valley
Homestead Crater is a natural hot spring located within a dome formed by sediment that bubbled up from the spring. In the past, the only way to reach the spring was by rappelling down through a hole in the roof of the dome. Today, there is a tunnel that provides easy access for visitors. Guests can enjoy the unique experience of soaking in the warm waters of the crater.
Golden Spike National Historic Site
This historic site is located about an hour and a half from Salt Lake City. Promontory Summit is the place where the Central Pacific Railroad and the Union Pacific Railroad met during the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad on May 10, 1869. The site features approximately three-quarters of a mile of railroad track and replicas of the original steam locomotives, which are used to reenact the Last Spike Ceremony. Additionally, there is a visitor center that offers exhibits and information about the site. It is near Corinne, Utah.. Website.
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Most of Monument Valley is located in Utah, but the visitor center is in Arizona. If you’ve ever seen a classic Western movie, there’s a good chance it was filmed in this valley. Visitors need to pay a fee to drive along the 17-mile dirt road. Some areas of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park can only be accessed with a tribal guide. The View Hotel, situated within the park, offers stunning views of the valley. It’s recommended to spend at least one night there to have enough time to explore the area.
I noticed the rails have been removed below the dam does that mean no more ride down the canyon or are the rails being replaced?
Looks like train rides will only go as far as Deer Creek. If the rails are removed it’s doubtful they will be replaced.