Heber Valley Railroad
1 / 10

Heber Valley Railroad

4.5
·3k reviews·Heber City, United States

Experience a nostalgic journey on historic trains through Utah's stunning Provo Canyon and along Deer Creek Reservoir.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Crisp air, fall colors

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Heber Valley Railroad

Heber Valley Railroad

Best Time

Fall mornings

Crisp air, fall colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience a nostalgic journey on historic trains through Utah's stunning Provo Canyon and along Deer Creek Reservoir.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"This was so much fun. I had a blast. They had a cowboy come on who said the lamest jokes. However, that is what made him great."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Themed Rides Early

Popular events like the North Pole Express sell out fast! Book tickets online in advance.

📸 Best Views on Left Side

Most scenic views, especially of Deer Creek Reservoir, are on the left side of the train.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Deer Creek Express

Deer Creek Express

Provo Canyon

A 90-minute scenic journey through Provo Canyon, offering stunning views of Mount Timpanogos and Deer Creek Reservoir.

North Pole Express

North Pole Express

Heber Depot

A magical Christmas experience where passengers journey to the North Pole, complete with festive decorations and Santa Claus.

Themed Excursions

Themed Excursions

Various

Seasonal rides like the Pumpkin Train and Sunset Dinner Train offer unique, family-friendly adventures throughout the year.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Themed Rides in Advance

Popular themed excursions like the North Pole Express and Pumpkin Train sell out quickly, especially during holidays. Book your Heber Valley Railroad tickets well in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. TikTokInstagram

Consider Seating and Scenery

While seating is assigned, some reviews suggest the left side of the train offers the best views of the reservoir. If you have specific seating preferences or mobility concerns, contact the railroad directly. Reddit

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Crisp air, fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter evenings
Why
Magical holiday lights
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, good light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Debbie and I had all of our children and grandchildren on the North Pole Express. What a perfect way to get the Christmas spirit. Thanks to everyone at #hebervalleyrailroad . We had a blast! PS. I even think the lady who was trying to get through was having fun. 😁🎶🎅🎄
@therealdonnyosmond
22.8K likes • 386.9K views

🎯 Book Themed Rides Early

Popular events like the North Pole Express sell out fast! Book tickets online in advance. TikTokInstagram

📸 Best Views on Left Side

Most scenic views, especially of Deer Creek Reservoir, are on the left side of the train. Reddit

🚂 Utah’s scenic train adventure awaits! Follow for more travel tips and adventures! Departing from the Heber Depot, the 90-minute Deer Creek Express winds through Provo Canyon, along the Provo River, and past Deer Creek Reservoir—all with jaw-dropping views of Mount Timpanogos and Cascade Mountain. Onboard you’ll find restrooms, light snacks/gift‑shop treats, and themed entertainment on special e...
@adventurefamilyvlog
6K likes • 117.9K views
Lots of gorgeous scenic trains this week at the Heber Valley Railroad! Catch a 12:00pm Lakeside Limited train or 3:30pm Deer Creek Express train everyday for the rest of the week! 🎫Buy your tickets to see the beauty of Heber Valley at the link in our bio
hebervalleyrailroad
245 likes • 3.8K views

💰 Military Discounts Available

Active duty and retired military receive free rides, with 50% off for family members. Reddit

🍎 Bring Your Own Snacks

While snacks are available for purchase, you can bring your own to save money. Instagram

Heber Valley historic Railroad & North Pole Express
classic_becca
20 likes • 583 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Themed Rides Early

Popular events like the North Pole Express sell out fast! Book tickets online in advance. TikTokInstagram

📸 Best Views on Left Side

Most scenic views, especially of Deer Creek Reservoir, are on the left side of the train. Reddit

💰 Military Discounts Available

Active duty and retired military receive free rides, with 50% off for family members. Reddit

🍎 Bring Your Own Snacks

While snacks are available for purchase, you can bring your own to save money. Instagram

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Fiddle and violin players often provide live entertainment, enhancing the journey. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Heber Valley Railroad for its scenic beauty, engaging themed rides, and friendly staff. The North Pole Express and other seasonal events are highlights, creating magical experiences. While some interior aspects show wear, the overall journey is considered worthwhile and enjoyable for families and couples alike.

"This was so much fun. I had a blast. They had a cowboy come on who said the lamest jokes. However, that is what made him great. They also had fiddle players that made the trip extra special. I am a larger person and worried when I heard seats were assigned. Luckily, anyone who traveled by themselves got their own bench seating. I really appreciated that. I would love to go again sometime when they have different events. Certainly something worth the money and time."

Carolyn Haney

"Really beautiful, well kept Railroad! The box lunches are great and can be made gluten free! Trying first class next time. Musicians were so fun! Not enough souvenirs so hopefully Heber Valley Railroad will get stocked back up. 😁"

Tori F

"Our hosts were Ava and Ethan, an enthusiastic duo who provided the historical commentary.
Ride a train from the early 1900s out and back to the reservoir. Hear the train whistle blast when crossing streets, check out some farms, raptors/nests, ranches and the reservoir.
Hear about the history of Heber Valley, listen to some classic country music and enjoy the scenery.
Free for active duty and retired military & 50% off for family members."

USA is a Constitutional Federal Republic

What People Like

Scenic Provo Canyon views
Magical themed rides
Friendly and enthusiastic staff

What People Dislike

Dated interior elements
Limited souvenir stock

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Heber Valley Railroad is located in Heber City, Utah. It's easily accessible by car, with parking often available across the street from the depot. TikTokInstagram

Yes, parking is generally easy to find, especially across the street from the depot. TikTokInstagram

From Salt Lake City, you can take US-189 E through Provo Canyon, which offers scenic views. TikTok

Public transportation options to Heber City are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the railroad.

The Heber Valley Railroad is a short drive from Park City, making it a convenient outing for visitors in that area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased online through the official Heber Valley Railroad website or at the depot. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for themed rides. Instagram+1

Ticket prices vary depending on the specific train ride and any special events. Check the official website for current pricing and availability. Instagram

Yes, active duty and retired military personnel ride for free, and their family members receive a 50% discount. Reddit

While specific discounts vary, keep an eye out for seasonal promotions or group rates. Groupon may occasionally offer deals. Reddit

The schedule varies by season and day of the week, with different themed rides offered. Check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule. Instagram

🎫 🚝 Onsite Experience

Most standard rides, like the Deer Creek Express, are approximately 90 minutes long, out and back. TikTokInstagram

The North Pole Express during the holidays and the Pumpkin Train in the fall are extremely popular themed rides. TikTokInstagram+1

Trains typically have restrooms and offer light snacks and gifts for purchase. Some themed rides may include special treats like cookies and hot chocolate. TikTokInstagram

The railroad aims to accommodate all passengers. It's advisable to contact them directly to discuss specific accessibility needs. Reddit

You'll experience beautiful views of Provo Canyon, the Provo River, Deer Creek Reservoir, and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. TikTokInstagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks. Some passengers also bring picnic lunches. Instagram

Light snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard. Some reviews mention box lunches being available and can be made gluten-free. TikTokReddit

Yes, the Sunset Dinner Train offers a dining experience along with the scenic ride. Instagram

The Sunset Dinner Train typically features a BBQ-style meal, often with live music. Reddit

One review mentioned that box lunches can be made gluten-free, so it's worth inquiring when booking or ordering. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Weekday afternoons often offer good lighting with fewer crowds. Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light for capturing the scenery. Instagram

The views of Deer Creek Reservoir, the Provo River, and the surrounding mountain landscapes are particularly picturesque. TikTokInstagram

Yes, passengers are encouraged to take photos from the train. Opening the windows can enhance your shots, though some interior elements might appear dated. Reddit

Themed rides like the North Pole Express offer unique photo ops with festive decorations, Santa, and costumed characters. TikTok+1

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a lens that can capture both wide landscapes and closer details of the train itself. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Heber Valley Railroad is a fantastic destination for families. Themed rides like the North Pole Express and Pumpkin Train are specifically designed to delight children, creating magical holiday and seasonal memories. TikTok+3 The 90-minute rides are a good length for younger attention spans, and the opportunity to see a real train up close is always a hit. TikTok Consider bringing snacks to keep little ones happy, and be sure to book tickets well in advance for popular events, as they sell out quickly. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Heber Valley Railroad offers value, especially with its military discounts. Active duty and retired military ride for free, with 50% off for family members. Reddit Bringing your own snacks and drinks can also help save money on onboard purchases. Instagram While themed rides might have a higher price point, the standard scenic rides offer a beautiful experience at a more accessible cost. Look for weekday rides which may have slightly lower demand and potentially fewer crowds. Instagram

couples

The Heber Valley Railroad offers a charming and romantic experience for couples. The Sunset Dinner Train provides a unique dining experience with scenic views, perfect for a special evening out. Instagram Even the standard scenic rides, with their beautiful mountain and reservoir vistas, offer a relaxing and picturesque backdrop for a date. TikTokInstagram Consider booking seats with good views or enjoying the live music often featured on board to enhance the romantic atmosphere. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Themed Rides

The Heber Valley Railroad truly shines with its array of themed excursions, transforming a scenic train ride into an immersive experience. The North Pole Express is a standout, especially for families, turning the journey into a magical trip to meet Santa Claus, complete with festive music and treats. TikTok+2 Similarly, the Pumpkin Train captures the spirit of autumn with a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. TikTok These events are incredibly popular, often selling out months in advance, so booking early is crucial for securing your spot and experiencing the holiday cheer or seasonal fun. Instagram+1

Beyond the major holidays, the railroad also offers other unique experiences like the Sunset Dinner Train, which combines a scenic journey with a BBQ meal, and various seasonal rides that cater to different interests. Instagram These themed rides are a significant draw, offering more than just a simple train journey and creating memorable experiences for all ages. The dedication to creating these special events is a key reason for the railroad's enduring appeal. Reddit

Scenic Beauty of Provo Canyon

The Heber Valley Railroad's standard routes, such as the Deer Creek Express, offer a captivating journey through the stunning Provo Canyon. As the train winds along the Provo River, passengers are treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Wasatch Mountains, including the majestic Mount Timpanogos. TikTokInstagram The route also skirts the picturesque Deer Creek Reservoir, providing ample opportunities for nature photography and quiet contemplation of the natural beauty. TikTokInstagram

Even during winter months, the landscape offers a unique charm. One reel highlights the challenges and beauty of the winter-scape, noting the need for a helper locomotive in heavy snow, showcasing the railroad's resilience and the dramatic winter scenery. Instagram Whether you're seeking vibrant fall colors, the serene beauty of a mountain lake, or the stark elegance of a snow-covered landscape, the Heber Valley Railroad's route promises a visually rewarding experience for every traveler. Instagram+1

A Glimpse into History

The Heber Valley Railroad operates with historic locomotives, offering a tangible connection to a bygone era of rail travel. One of the locomotives, Great Western 2-8-0 #75, has even been featured in vintage train films, highlighting its historical significance. Instagram While some of the train's interior elements might show their age, the comfortable seating and open windows allow passengers to fully appreciate the journey and the surrounding environment. Reddit The railroad provides historical commentary during the rides, sharing insights into the history of Heber Valley and the significance of the trains themselves. Reddit

This commitment to preserving and operating historic equipment makes the Heber Valley Railroad more than just a tourist attraction; it's a living museum. Experiencing the rumble of the engine, the blast of the whistle, and the classic country music often played onboard immerses visitors in a nostalgic atmosphere. Reddit It’s a chance to step back in time and appreciate the engineering and romance of old-fashioned train travel. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2