Heber Valley Railroad Thrills Visitors and Residents

Posted by Todd R. Cates
2
Jul 22, 2010
655 Views
Wind through scenic Heber Valley real estate aboard an authentic old Engine #618, circa 1907, that pulls a passenger train composed of restored 1920s era rail cars along 16 miles of track through Heber Valley and down into Provo Canyon.

The Heber Valley Historic Railroad dates back to 1899 when trains served the pioneers who first settled the valley and now operates as non-profit organization. Today, vintage coaches are pulled over this beautiful vista by two 1907 Baldwin steam locomotives and three vintage diesel electric locomotives. Over 95,000 passengers ride the train each year and that number is steadily growing.

The railroad has been used in a number of motion pictures and was featured on TV episodes of "Touched by an Angel" and "Promised Land". In 1999 the Heber Valley Railroad purchased the "Movie Train". The Steam engine and ten railroad cars have been featured in 33 motion pictures over the past 20 years. The "Movie Train" is now in operation and you're welcome to come visit and ride where movie stars once worked.

Starting at the Train Depot, 450 South 600 West in Heber City. The route winds through farms and then traces the west bank of Deer Creek Reservoir before following the Provo River down into Provo Canyon to Vivian Park.

Scenery along the route is spectacular during every season of the year. Wild animals and birds are commonly seen along the tracks, including deer, elk and eagles.

There are numerous featured excursion rides throughout the year and many summer ride offerings:

Sunset BBQ Ride:

Enjoy a relaxing train ride along the shores of Deer Creek Reservoir. Stop for live, bluegrass music and a delicious BBQ dinner at the Soldier Hollow Platform while the sun sets over majestic Mt. Timpanogos. A fun, outdoor experience for all ages and for any occasion.

Fiddlers 'n Fireworks:

A Pioneer Day celebration over Deer Creek Reservoir aboard the Heber Valley Historic Railroad. Watch in awe from an open-air car as the rockets' red glare reflects off the lake...a sight you won't soon forget. Pizza and beverages included.

Comedy Murder Mystery:

A real "Whodunit" aboard the Heber Valley Historic Railroad! Follow the story throughout the ride to unravel the mystery and be the winning detective. A delicious dinner is served aboard the train.

Reins 'n Trains Adventure: Saddle up for a great summertime activity that combines a train ride with horseback riding, led by professional guides. Fare includes delicious boxed lunch and guide gratuity. Appropriate for riders 8 years and older

Raft 'n Rail Adventure: Cool off a hot summer day with this fun activity for ages 3 and above. Enjoy a scenic ride from Heber City into Provo Canyon, raft the renowned Provo River with experienced guides through Class I and II rapids, visit the famed Sundance Resort, then catch a return shuttle to the depot. Fare includes shuttle transfers and boxed lunch.

Soldier Hollow Express Scenic Excursion: This 90-minute trip offers incredible views of the Wasatch Mountains, wide-open vistas of Deer Creek Reservoir and the beautiful Heber Valley.

Provo Canyon Limited Scenic Excursion: Climb aboard for breathtaking scenery during a relaxing, three-hour ride. Stunning views of Mt. Timpanogos and the dramatic landscape of the glacier-carved Provo Canyon. Authentic, western train robberies scheduled Tuesday through Saturday, June through August and each Saturday in September.

Wilderness Zip Line Adventure: : Ride the rails to a new adventure...the wilderness zip line, for a bird's eye view of the beautiful Provo Canyon below! Includes a delicious boxed lunch, zip line pass, train ticket and shuttle transfers. Age restrictions apply.

For ticket price information, schedules and special ride information, visit hebervalleyrr.org or call 435-654-5601.
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