High Country Highlights: Exploring Heber Valley in 48 Hours
From riding the iconic Heber Valley Railroad to biking top-rated trails and swimming in a 10,000-year-old crater, Heber Valley is an alpine escape with a laid-back pace.
Just a short drive from Park City and Salt Lake City, Heber Valley blends outdoor recreation with small-town charm, making it ideal for weekend escapes and family-friendly adventures.
Verdant farmland and towering peaks may remind you of the Swiss Alps — but Heber Valley offers that same alpine beauty right here in the American West. Crystal-clear reservoirs shimmer beneath snowcapped mountains, and the welcoming towns of Midway and Heber City radiate rustic hospitality and year-round adventure.
Whether you're casting a line, teeing off, or hitting the trails, Heber Valley invites you to slow down and soak up the scenery. Use this two-day itinerary as your guide to discover one of Utah’s most memorable high-country getaways.
From the Homestead to the Heber Creeper
10 Miles
Begin your journey at the Homestead Resort in Midway, a historic mountain retreat with deep roots dating back to the 1800s. Founded by Swiss immigrants Simon and Maria Schneitter, the resort is famous for its unique geothermal feature: the Homestead Crater. This dome-shaped mineral formation houses a naturally heated spring that stays at 90-96°F year-round. You can soak, swim, snorkel, or even scuba dive in the dark 65-foot-deep waters (advance reservations are required). For more pool fun, stop by the outdoor thermal pools, as well as the adult lounge and family pool.
Start your morning right just five minutes away at Judy’s Donuts & Coffee, a local favorite where every donut is handmade from scratch each day. Known for their award-winning creations — including the beloved Maple Bar and Raspberry Dream Bismark — Judy’s also offers oversized apple fritters, chocolate-dipped cinnamon rolls, and an ever-changing variety of cake donuts. Pair your pick with a cup of coffee brewed from Caffe Ibis beans, a Utah roaster celebrated for its organic and fair-trade blends. Then take a seat on the front porch, sip slowly and take in the view of Midway’s charming Swiss-inspired Main Street.
Walk down the street to Folklore Bookshop, a cozy, creative space that serves as a “third place” for the community. This charming shop offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books for all ages, as well as gifts, stickers and comfy seating areas — including a fireplace nook that will beg you to settle on the couch and start reading before you leave.
Cap off your day aboard the Heber Valley Railroad, nicknamed the “Heber Creeper.” This century-old steam train winds through farmland, around the edges of Deer Creek Reservoir and into scenic canyons, offering a relaxing ride through Utah’s mountain beauty. Rides typically run Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and some have special themes such as the chocolate lover’s train, rock-n-roll or cowboy train.
The railroad is also a featured stop on the Utah Film Trail, having served as a backdrop for productions like “Touched by an Angel,” “Deidra & Laney Rob a Train” and “Escape from Germany.”
For a full train schedule and to book your tickets, visit hebertrain.com.
Tee off in the mountains, eat at a Heber Valley classic and unwind lakeside
20 Miles
- Wasatch Mountain Golf Course
- Wasatch Mountain State Park
- Jordanelle State Park
- Jordanelle Rentals & Marina
Set out early to catch a morning round at Wasatch Mountain Golf Course, widely ranked among the most popular, scenic and affordable in the state. You can choose between two 18-hole layouts: the mountain course, which climbs into the canyon before a downhill back nine, or the lake course, with a more traditional design lined with water features and mature trees. At an elevation of 6,000 feet, golfers enjoy cooler temperatures during the summer months. The course also features a full driving range, putting green, well-stocked pro shop, and on-site café. Not a golfer? Enjoy the fresh mountain air along the trails at Wasatch Mountain State Park, where you can explore by foot, mountain bike or ATV.
For a true taste of Heber, head to Chick’s Café — a Main Street institution that’s been serving hearty comfort food for 70 years. The café’s motto, “Where people eat by choice, not by chance,” reflects its deep roots in the community. Grab a seat at the counter and dig into timeless favorites like chicken fried steak, golden deep-fried scones, fresh rainbow trout and homemade pies.
Chick’s is celebrating its 70th anniversary, and guests are invited to browse a commemorative book filled with heartfelt messages from loyal patrons. One note captures it perfectly: “Homemade down to the core. There aren’t many places in the valley that remind you of yesteryear.”
Wrap up your visit with an afternoon at Jordanelle State Park. Cast a line for trout, bass, or perch, or rent a boat, jet ski, kayak, or paddleboard from Jordanelle Rentals & Marina. Whether you’re out on the water or lounging under a cabana, it’s the perfect spot to end your two-day Heber Valley adventure. For something low-key, stroll one of the lakeside trails and take in the panoramic mountain views. Peak season runs May through September and fee information can be found on the Utah State Parks website.
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