Heber Valley Railroad: A Scenic Train Ride Near Park City
Take the kids on a vintage train ride through the stunning Provo Canyon - a magical experience any time of year.
All Aboard!
The Heber Valley Historic Railroad offers one of the most scenic and family-friendly train rides in the West. Departing from Heber City (just 20 minutes from Park City), the vintage train winds through Provo Canyon with stunning views of Deer Creek Reservoir and the Wasatch Mountains.
The Provo Canyon Limited
The standard ride takes about 3 hours round trip and follows the Provo River through spectacular canyon scenery. Open-air cars let you feel the mountain breeze, while enclosed coaches offer comfort in cooler weather. Kids are mesmerized watching the river and mountains pass by. Bring a pair of binoculars for spotting eagles and deer along the canyon.
Themed Rides
North Pole Express - The holiday season brings the magical North Pole Express, where kids meet Santa, drink hot chocolate, and experience the train decked out in Christmas lights. This sells out months in advance - book early!
The Great Train Robbery - A Wild West-themed ride where bandits on horseback "hold up" the train. Kids love the theatrical performance and interaction.
Murder Mystery Dinner Train - For older kids and adults, this interactive dinner theater on rails is a unique experience.
Tips for the Best Experience
Request the open-air observation car for the best photo opportunities. Bring layers - it can be significantly cooler in the canyon than in town. Snacks are available on board, but you can also bring your own. A packable rain jacket is wise since mountain weather can change quickly.
Combining with Other Activities
After the train ride, explore Heber City's charming downtown. The Dairy Keen (a local institution) serves great burgers and ice cream. Or head to nearby Midway for the Homestead Crater hot spring swim. The whole area is beautiful and worth a full day away from Park City. For the drive up, a pair of kids headphones will keep everyone happy and entertained. Bring a reusable water bottle for everyone - staying hydrated makes a huge difference with kids. Always pack a compact first aid kit - with kids, you never know when you will need it. We swear by packing cubes to keep the family organized.
Family Travel Essentials
Here are our tried-and-tested picks for this trip: