Ride the Heber Valley Steam Train and see Deer Creek Reservoir

Taking a ride on the historic Heber Valley Steam Train combined with visits to stunning local sites sounds perfect for outdoor lovers and history buffs alike. This tour, offered in and around Park City, Utah, promises something a little different—a 90-minute scenic train journey, impressive views of Deer Creek Reservoir, plus stops at a cheese farm, natural springs, and mountain parks.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it mixes relaxation with discovery. The chance to see Utah’s beautiful landscapes from a vintage train makes it feel special, and the inclusion of local farms and natural springs adds a genuine local flavor. On the flip side, one possible drawback is the current absence of a working steam engine, which might disappoint train enthusiasts expecting an authentic steam-powered experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of local culture. It’s suitable for most ages and interests, especially if you’re keen on combining natural beauty with a bit of history and good food.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenic Views: From Deer Valley to Deer Creek Reservoir, the vistas are truly spectacular.
• Diverse Stops: Experience local cheese-making, natural springs, and mountain parks in one trip.
• Family Friendly: The itinerary suits all ages, with plenty of photo ops and relaxed stops.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides like Daniel enhance the trip with helpful commentary.
• Value for Money: For $95, you’re getting a mix of transportation, natural sights, and local tastes.
• Some Limitations: The steam engine isn’t operational at the moment, which might matter to train purists.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Pickup

The journey begins in the early afternoon, around 2:30 pm, with pickup from your Park City or Deer Valley hotel. This small-group tour, capped at 22 travelers, offers a personalized feel, and the mobile ticket system streamlines the check-in process. Meeting at your hotel is convenient, saving you the hassle of navigating to a meeting point, especially after a morning of exploring.

The Scenic Drive Through Utah’s Countryside

As you head out of town, the tour guides take you through the historic roots of Utah’s first Mormon settlements. Our guide, Daniel, is praised for his friendly and knowledgeable manner, providing context that makes each stop more enriching. The drive itself offers plenty of opportunities for quick photo stops—most notably at Jordanelle State Park, where you get up close to the reservoir. You’ll see the rugged back side of Deer Valley Ski Resort and the impressive Wasatch Back, making this part of the trip visually captivating.

Jordanelle State Park and Mountain Views

This second stop is brief—about 10 minutes—but packed with visual impact. The towering mountains and shimmering reservoir create perfect scenery for photos. This stop allows visitors to step out of the vehicle, breathe in the mountain air, and snap some shots of the Utah wilderness. Reviewers often mention how beautiful the landscape is here, with the added bonus of seeing Deer Valley’s ski slopes from a new perspective.

The Historic Midway and Guardsman Pass

Another short stop takes you through Midway, one of Utah’s original Mormon towns. The town charm is evident, with its quaint buildings and mountain backdrop. If your timing aligns (most of the year, around 3-4 months, the Guardsman Pass is open for a scenic drive back to Park City), you’ll get a glimpse of this popular mountain route, often used for cross-country skiing and golf.

Heber Valley Railroad and Deer Creek Reservoir

The main event is the 90-minute round-trip train journey on the Heber Valley Railroad. While the train currently does not operate a steam engine due to refurbishment, the vintage train cars still offer a nostalgic ride through the Utah countryside. Reviewers like Karen_B appreciated the experience, highlighting the friendly and knowledgeable guide, Daniel, who kept things entertaining and informative.

During the ride, you’ll see Deer Creek Reservoir from a different angle, enjoying sweeping views of the water and surrounding mountains. Even without the steam engine, the train provides a peaceful, scenic experience—perfect for photos and simply soaking in the landscape. The train departs at 3:30 pm, giving you plenty of daylight for photography.

The Artesian Cheese Farm and Dairy Visit

After the train, the tour takes you to the Midway Artesian Cheese and Kohler Dairy Farm. This is a highlight for many, especially those who enjoy local produce. Here, you can meet the cows, watch the cheese-making process, and sample a variety of cheeses—all included in the tour price. Staff and guides here are friendly, and the tasting is a real treat, giving you a taste of Utah’s artisanal food scene.

Utah Natural Springs and Crater

Another unique stop is the Midway Natural Underground Spa and Crater. The water temperature holds steady at 94°F, fed by a spring two miles underground, making it a relaxing end to the day. While the tour doesn’t specify if you can soak here, the sight of this natural marvel adds an authentic touch to your Utah experience.

Practicalities and Personal Experiences

Duration and Group Size

Spanning about 3 hours and 30 minutes, this tour is a manageable length for a half-day or afternoon activity. The small-group size (up to 22 people) means you’ll get more personalized attention and less waiting around.

Cost and Value

At $95 per person, the price seems reasonable considering the variety of sites visited and activities included—train ride, cheese tasting, natural springs, and scenic drives. Some reviewers noted the value, especially given the opportunity for photos, local food, and expert guides. However, the absence of the steam engine might be a letdown for some, especially if expectations centered on a fully operational steam train.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour is weather-dependent, with the possibility of cancellation due to poor conditions. If canceled, you’ll get a different date or a full refund. Since most of the stops are outdoors or involve scenic drives, clear weather really makes a difference in your experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings with a dash of local culture. Families, couples, and history buffs will find plenty to love, especially if you appreciate the quiet beauty of Utah’s mountains and reservoirs. The stops at farms and springs add a personal touch, making it feel less like a typical sightseeing tour and more like a taste of local life.

If you’re a train enthusiast, be aware that the steam engine isn’t currently running, so temper your expectations accordingly. For those seeking a picturesque, laid-back journey with engaging guides and stunning vistas, this tour offers real value and memorable moments.

FAQ

Is the train ride on a real steam engine?
Currently, no. The steam engine is under refurbishment, so the train operates with vintage diesel cars. However, the train still offers a charming, scenic journey.

What is included in the tour price?
You’ll get the train ride, visits to Jordanelle State Park, Midway, the cheese farm, and the natural spring crater, plus cheese tastings at the farm. Pickup from your hotel is also included.

How long is the entire tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a suitable half-day activity.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the relaxed pace makes it family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the train ride, scenic views, and cheese tasting.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor stops and variable mountain weather. Bring layers and perhaps a camera for the stunning landscapes.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, the Ride the Heber Valley Steam Train tour offers a charming mix of scenic views, local farm visits, and a relaxing train ride that even non-enthusiasts will enjoy. While the steam engine isn’t operational at the moment, the experience remains engaging, especially with knowledgeable guides like Daniel. Perfect for those wanting a taste of Utah’s natural beauty, local food, and historic charm—all in a manageable, well-organized trip.