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Located about 40 miles southeast of Salt Lake, Heber Valley is the crown jewel of Wasatch County. From stunning mountain views to geothermal wonders to ziplines to historic trains to unparalleled access to water sports (there are three lakes in the area, plus the Provo River), this place truly has it all.
Best of all, the valley is a true year-round destination. While cities in the Salt Lake and Utah valleys often swelter in the summer heat, Heber Valley stays pleasantly cooler. This makes it a great place to escape the hottest days and find some new outdoor adventures. The area boasts more than 90 holes of golf, blue-ribbon flying fishing, and hundreds of miles of trails to explore.
During winter, you can go snowmobiling, snowshoeing, tubing, or go on a horse-drawn sleigh ride. And you can even go swimming in the Crater, where the geothermally heated water is perfectly warm 365 days a year.
Here are some of the highlights of Heber Valley:
Fishing:
Heber Valley is home to blue-ribbon fly fishing on the Provo River and other nearby streams. And you can shore fish or take your boat on Deer Creek, Jordanelle, or Strawberry to target other species. If you’re looking to catch a trophy brown, cutthroat, rainbow, or walleye, this is one of the best places in Utah to do it.
Water Sports:
If you don’t feel like fishing, you can always raft or kayak on the Provo River. The area’s lakes are also prime locations for wakeboarding, kayaking, sailing, and kite surfing.
Zip Lines:
Did you know that the world’s longest zip line route over an open body of water is right here in Heber Valley? Zipline Utah lets you access more than two miles of continuous zip line, which makes for an awesome outing for the family.
Soldier Hollow Tubing:
There are numerous tubing hills in Utah, but this is the undisputed champion. You can take the convenient lift service up the hill and then rocket down the 1,200-foot lanes (the longest in the state). And the area is well-lit allowing for night rides.
Homestead Crater:
Swimming in the Crater is like stepping back in time. After all, this geothermal hot spring is 10,000 years old.
The water stays 90-96 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it an incredibly unique place to snorkel, scuba dive, or just enjoy a luxurious soak.
Heber Valley Railroad:
Speaking of stepping back in time, this historic railroad allows you to follow the same route that trains used in 1800s. You’ll be able to get picturesque views of Mount Timpanogos and Deer Creek Reservoir, then drop down into the trees to follow the Provo River down to Vivian Park. The train runs throughout the year, with lots of fun events for families.
Heber Valley Milk & Artisan Cheese Dairy Farm Tour:
If you have a little extra time during your visit to Heber Valley, this tour is a fascinating opportunity to go behind the scenes of a dairy farm and learn more about how they make their award-winning cheese.
Dark Skies Destination:
If you just want to get outside for some bonding with nature, there are plenty of places to camp in the area. And being outside in Heber Valley is a special treat because areas such as Jordanelle State Park and Timpanogos Cave National Monument have been internationally designated as dark skies areas. So you’ll be able to see some of the most stunning stars of your life.
Dining Options:
Café Galleria serves up delicious woodfired pizzas, as well as other dishes such as pasta, steaks, and salad. For the full effect, you’ve got to eat your meal in one of their Alpenglobe dining shelters.
Dairy Keen is one of the best restaurants for kids in all of Utah. The burgers and shakes are insanely good, and there’s a model train that rambles around on a track throughout the restaurant.
Heber City Market on Main is great if you’re a fan of food trucks and outdoor eating. Held at Main Street Park most Thursdays in June and August, it’s an awesome way to sample local food and enjoy good music.
Lola’s Street Kitchen offers some of the most unique and vibrant recipes you’ll find in Utah. The food is all fresh and the desserts are incredible. This place always attracts a crowd, so it’s best to arrive sometime between lunch and dinner to avoid the rush.
Lodging Options:
The Homestead is a Utah legend. From the charming rooms to the majestic views, it’s always a great visit. It has recently undergone a renovation and the new rooms are more amazing than ever. Plus, you’ll find the Crater and the popular Simon’s Restaurant right onsite. Tripadvisor Reviews. (Affiliate Link)
Holiday Inn Express has one of the best breakfasts in town. It also has excellent rooms and a nice pool. Tripadvisor Reviews. (Affiliate Link)
Swiss Alps Inn is a budget motel with clean rooms and comfy beds. If you’re looking to save money, this is a great option. Tripadvisor Reviews. (Affiliate link)
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