5 reasons to visit Heber City

5 reasons to visit Heber City

(Allison Laypath)


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HEBER CITY — Heber City was recently honored as one of the Top 10 small towns in the United States by Livability.com. Heber City makes a good base for enjoying state parks, internationally-acclaimed venues and unique attractions throughout the Heber Valley. It is located just 20 minutes from Provo and 40 minutes from Salt Lake City so it's an easy getaway destination for many Utahns.

"Heber City is beautiful," said Dallin Koecher of the Heber Valley Tourism and Economic Development office. "It is a small community in a beautiful area and has great amenities for families. The residents enjoy the tight knit, family friendly, small-town feel that still exists here despite the growth."

Whether you are interested in a day trip, a weekend or a permanent move, here are five reasons to visit Heber City.

Heber Valley Railroad

Heber Valley Railroad, known to many as the Heber Creeper, is one of Heber City's best-known attractions. Taking a ride on this historic railroad is like taking a trip back in time. It's an excellent opportunity to relax and reconnect with family and friends. Explore the historic cars, enjoy the scenery or look for deer, elk, moose and more along Deer Creek Reservoir or Provo Canyon.

All of Heber Valley Railroad's train trips include live family-friendly entertainment. Jack Black Raven and the Soldier Hollow Gang often lie in wait to "rob the train" and Heber Valley Railroad frequently hosts special events. Check the schedule for Date Night Trains, Princess Trains, Wizard Trains, the North Pole Express and other specialized events.

Dairy Keen

After the Heber Valley Railroad pulls into the station, follow the crowd to Dairy Keen on Heber City's Main Street. This family owned fast-food restaurant has been a Heber City institution since 1946. The burgers and fries are good and Dairy Keen's award-winning shakes are among the best in Utah.

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Dairy Keen bills itself "Home of the Train," and it won't take long to see why. Along the ceiling, Dairy Keen has a model train running past replicas of Heber Valley landmarks. Outside, small train cars hold child-size tables and benches. A small working model of the Hogwarts Express can be found in the back dining room.

Soldier Hollow

Soldier Hollow was created for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games and it remains a year-round destination for outdoor activities. In the summer, hiking, biking and horseback riding are popular. Soldier Hollow hosts special events such as the Dirty Dash, Heber Valley Pow-Wow and the Soldier Hollow Classic Sheepdog Championship. This Labor Day Weekend event attracts the best dogs and handlers and tens of thousands of visitors from around the world. Learn more at www.soldierhollowclassic.com.

Soldier Hollow hosted the cross-country skiing and biathlon Olympic events and it continues to host international sporting events. These world class cross-country and biathlon courses are open for public use year-round. Equipment rentals and lessons are available. Soldier Hollow also has a 1,200 foot tubing hill which is one of its most popular winter attractions.

Fishing

Heber City offers world-class opportunities for fly fishing. Heber City is located minutes from three good fishing reservoirs: Strawberry, Jordanelle and Deer Creek. Strawberry Reservoir offers some of Utah's best fishing for trophy rainbow and cutthroat trout. Jordanelle and Deer Creek state parks are also favorite local destinations for camping, boating and other family-friendly fun.

Ryan Newman, a fly fishing guide with Rocky Mountain Outfitters said that fly fishing near Heber City is excellent for several reasons.

"The Provo River has one of the largest populations of trout per mile in the United States, as well as excellent public access for anglers," Newman said. "Fly Fishing in the Heber Valley is fun, offers something for all skill levels, and the views of Mount Timpanogos are amazing."

Swiss Days

It's true that Swiss Days is held in Midway, not Heber City. However, when one of the biggest and best-known cultural celebrations in Utah is held just three miles from downtown Heber City, it's a pretty good reason to visit.

Swiss Days attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the Heber Valley every year. This year, Swiss Days will be held Aug. 29-30 at the Town Square in Midway. The festivities include a parade, live entertainment, food and more than 180 craft booths. It is one of Utah's biggest craft fairs, and enthusiasts arrive early for the best selection of stylish hand made items. Learn more at www.midwayswissdays.com.

Of course, these are only several reasons to visit Heber City. Visitors can also find championship golf, charming resorts, delicious dining and much more.


Allison Laypath is an expert on family travel and author of the family travel blog tipsforfamilytrips.com. With her family, Allison especially enjoys road trips, national parks and local field trips. Email Allison at allison@tipsforfamilytrips.com.

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