Family-Friendly Activities in Heber Valley, Utah
Planning your next summer getaway or winter escape with your family? These family-friendly activities in Heber Valley, Utah are sure to please and impress your entire crew. From activities to scenic beauty, this charming valley offers something for everyone. Here is a guide to some of the best family-friendly adventures and activities in the Heber Valley.
Heber Valley Railroad
The Heber Valley Railroad is a must-visit attraction for families. Known as the “Heber Creeper,” this historic train offers scenic rides through stunning landscapes. Families can choose from various themed rides like Wild West Train, North Pole Express, or Sunset BBQ Special for a unique experience each time. The train isn’t just about the ride, but an entire experience complete with interactive elements along the way. The Heber Creeper is a hit with kids (and adults) of all ages.
Jordanelle State Park
Jordanelle State Park is perfect for a day of outdoor adventure. The park features a large reservoir where families can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming. There are also several picnic areas and campsites, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or an overnight camping trip. The park’s well-maintained trails are great for hikers and bikers of all skill levels, and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and water features.
Deer Creek State Park
Another family-favorite destination for water activities is Deer Creek State Park. This park is renowned for its excellent windsurfing and boating opportunities. Families can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and boats from local outfitters. The Deer Creek Trail is a family-friendly hike that offers panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding peaks, and the park’s sandy beaches are perfect for building sandcastles and soaking up the summer sun.
Midway Ice Castles
For a magical, one-of-a-kind winter experience, the Midway Ice Castles are a must-see. These breathtaking structures are crafted entirely from ice and are illuminated with colorful lights — creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. Children will be enchanted by the ice slides, tunnels, and sculptures. The Ice Castles are typically open from late December through early March, depending on weather conditions.
Soldier Hollow Nordic Center
Located within Wasatch Mountain State Park, Soldier Hollow Nordic Center is a year-round destination for family fun. In the winter, the center offers cross-country skiing, snow tubing, and biathlon experiences. During the summer months, families can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and a variety of outdoor activities. The tubing hill, with its lift-served lanes, is a particular favorite among kids.
Cascade Springs
Cascade Springs is a natural wonder that provides a serene setting for a family outing. The area features a series of beautiful springs and cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation. A network of boardwalks and paved trails makes it easy for families to access and explore the springs and all of its scenery. It’s a peaceful spot for a picnic and the perfect opportunity to teach children about nature.
Heber Valley Artisan Cheese
For a unique tasting experience, families can visit Heber Valley Artisan Cheese. This family-owned dairy farm offers tours where you can see the cheese-making process and meet the cows. The highlight of course is the cheese tasting, where you’re able to sample a variety of delicious cheeses. Kids will love the farm animals, and parents can stock up on gourmet cheese to take home.
Homestead Crater
The Homestead Crater is a geothermal hot spring hidden inside of a 55-foot tall, beehive-shaped limestone rock. The warm mineral water is perfect for a relaxing soak or an introductory scuba diving lesson. The Crater is open year-round, and the constant 90-96°F water temperature makes it a great activity regardless of the season.
Wasatch Mountain State Park
Wasatch Mountain State Park offers a wide range of activities for families. In the winter, the park is a popular destination for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and skiing. During the summer, the park’s golf courses, hiking trails, and horseback riding opportunities provide plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors.
Swiss Days Festival
If you’re visiting Heber Valley during Labor Day weekend, don’t miss the Swiss Days Festival in Midway. This annual event celebrates the area’s Swiss heritage with a parade, live music, craft vendors, and delicious food. Kids can enjoy carnival rides and games, and parents can browse the artisan booths and sample traditional Swiss cuisine.
Plan Your Stay in Heber Valley, Utah
When you’re ready to book your stay in the Heber Valley, contact River’s Edge Resort for a family-friendly home away from home. We offer access to private fishing, hiking, and playground locations, and have several RV sites, cabins, and yurts to accommodate families of all sizes. With so many family-friendly activities onsite, River’s Edge Resort is a vacation destination all on its own, with easy access to everything else the Heber Valley has to offer.
