Heber, UT

Railroad tracks still carry passengers out of Heber toward Provo Canyon, linking present-day excursions to the line that opened this high Wasatch Back valley to outside markets. Settled in 1859, Heber is the Wasatch County seat and lies near Jordanelle, Deer Creek, and Strawberry reservoirs. The first Rio Grande Western train reached the new depot on September 21, 1899; regular mixed passenger-and-freight service began the following month. The final freight train left in 1968, but residents and rail enthusiasts saved the corridor in 1970, and a state authority revived excursions in 1993. The Heber Valley Railroad now sends vintage and restored coaches along the original route beside Deer Creek Reservoir and the Provo River. Heber maintains nine city parks, ranging from central event space to athletic grounds and natural areas.

The 3.5-acre Main Street Park puts a bandstand, pavilion, playground, and picnic space in the center of town; summer Thursdays bring the Heber Market on Main and Concerts in the Park to the same grounds. At fifteen-acre Muirfield Park, the emphasis shifts to a stream, natural areas, a walking path, and the only city park where leashed dogs are allowed. On the west side, county-operated Southfield Park gathers ballfields, soccer fields, courts, a skate park, and playgrounds beside the fairgrounds and event center. The Centennial Trail passes through Southfield and continues between Heber and neighboring Midway, giving the valley a non-road connection between the two towns.