Family Rail Day: How to Ride the Heber Valley Railroad from Your Zermatt Home Base
Looking for a memory-making winter outing that’s easy with kids and fun for all ages? The Heber Valley Railroad delivers exactly that. This classic, family-friendly experience features themed rides on historic steam locomotives, with most excursions lasting less than two hours—just right for little attention spans. Even better, you can plan the perfect Family Rail Day right from your home base at Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa in Midway.
In this guide, you’ll learn what the Heber Valley Railroad offers, how much to budget (approx. $20 per person), how long to plan, and smart ways to pair your ride with on-property dining, relaxing pools, and more.
What Is the Heber Valley Railroad?
The Heber Valley Railroad—affectionately known as the “Heber Creeper”—runs classic steam locomotives through scenic Heber Valley. It’s beloved by locals and visitors alike for fun, relaxing excursions with nostalgic flair.
- Locomotives: Classic steam trains
- Excursion length: Most rides last less than two hours
- Vibe: Relaxed, scenic, family-friendly
- Themed rides: Look for favorites like the Chocolate Lovers Train, Rock n’ Roll Train, and the Chinese New Year Train
- Approximate cost: $20 per person
Why Start Your Rail Day at Zermatt
Make the day effortless by using Zermatt as your launchpad. You’ll have cozy comforts before and after the rails—and plenty to do onsite.
- Easy start to your morning: Grab fresh pastries and coffee at The Bakery near the main entrance for a no-stress breakfast.
- Family-friendly facilities: Enjoy heated pools and hot tubs year-round—including a swim-through indoor/outdoor pool and a two-story waterfall hot tub—for a relaxing post-ride wind-down.
- Dining made simple: Reserve a table at Z’s Restaurant for a celebratory dinner or stop by The Lobby Lounge for burgers, sandwiches, and small bites.
- Onsite convenience: Self-park and valet are included in the resort charge, making it easy to come and go.
- Seasonal activities: On-property options include tennis, sand volleyball, miniature golf, giant chess, shuffleboard, a family carousel (summer), and more.
Your Family Rail Day Itinerary (Sample)
Use this simple framework and customize as you like.
- Breakfast at The Bakery
- Pick up pastries, desserts, and coffee to fuel your adventure.
- All aboard the Heber Valley Railroad
- Choose a themed ride that matches your crew’s interests. With most excursions under two hours, it’s an easy fit for your day.
- Afternoon swim and soak
- Head back to Zermatt for the heated indoor/outdoor pool and hot tubs. It’s a perfect way to warm up and unwind.
- Dinner at Z’s Restaurant or The Lobby Lounge
- Celebrate a great day together with a meal just steps from your room.
Heber Valley Railroad at a Glance
| Detail | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Nickname | “Heber Creeper” |
| Trains | Classic steam locomotives |
| Typical duration | Most excursions last less than two hours |
| Popular themes | Chocolate Lovers Train, Rock n’ Roll Train, Chinese New Year Train |
| Approximate cost | $20 per person |
Tip: Themed rides are popular. Book early during weekends and holidays.
Transportation and Logistics Tips
Keep your focus on fun with these low-stress planning moves:
- Arrive with buffer time: Give yourself extra minutes for parking and boarding so you can settle in without rushing.
- Dress in layers: Winter temps can vary; layers help everyone stay comfortable before, during, and after your ride.
- Build in a warm-up: Plan time to enjoy Zermatt’s heated pools and hot tubs after your excursion.
- On-property payments: Zermatt operates cash-free, so bring a card for resort dining, spa services, and retail.
- Concierge support: Call 435.657.0180 for assistance with planning and on-property arrangements.
Make It a Full Winter Day in Midway
Round out your Family Rail Day with other close-by favorites.
Midway Ice Rink
- Utah’s largest outdoor skating rink. Enjoy classic winter fun while overlooking the Wasatch Mountains. Fun fact: the rink uses a refrigeration unit from the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.
- Approximate cost: $8 per person
Skiing and Riding
- Nearby options include Deer Valley Ski Resort (ski-exclusive, capped daily skier count, renowned grooming) and Sundance Mountain Resort (stunning views and a perfect day escape).
Snowmobiling
- Zermatt’s preferred vendor at Daniels Summit offers a large fleet, guided and unguided rides, and access to 40 miles of groomed trails. Located 30–40 minutes from Zermatt Utah.
Hot Air Balloon Flights
- For a bucket-list view over Heber Valley, Zermatt partners with Bigfoot Balloons for scenic morning flights.
FAQs About the Heber Valley Railroad (Quick Answers)
How much does the Heber Valley Railroad cost?
Approximate cost: $20 per person.
How long are the rides on the Heber Valley Railroad?
Most excursions last less than two hours.
What is the “Heber Creeper”?
It’s the affectionate nickname for the Heber Valley Railroad, which runs classic steam locomotives around the valley.
Are there themed trains for families?
Yes. Popular themes include the Chocolate Lovers Train, Rock n’ Roll Train, and the Chinese New Year Train.
What can we do before or after the train at Zermatt?
- Grab breakfast or sweet treats at The Bakery near the main entrance.
- Swim and soak in the heated pools and hot tubs.
- Dine at Z’s Restaurant or relax at The Lobby Lounge.
- Enjoy seasonal on-property activities like miniature golf, giant chess, and more.
Practical Takeaways
- Plan around a two-hour window: Most train excursions are under two hours—perfect for kids’ schedules.
- Budget simply: Expect an approximate cost of $20 per person for the railroad.
- Pick a theme: Choose a ride like the Chocolate Lovers Train to make it extra special.
- Start and end at Zermatt: Fuel up at The Bakery, then relax post-ride in heated pools and hot tubs.
- Add one bonus activity: Ice skate at the Midway Ice Rink (approx. $8 per person), ski at Deer Valley or Sundance, or book snowmobiling at Daniels Summit.
Conclusion: Your Easiest Family Win This Winter
The Heber Valley Railroad blends nostalgia, scenery, and kid-friendly timing into one effortless outing—especially when you start and end your day at Zermatt. Pair a themed ride with warm pastries, a celebratory dinner, and a relaxing soak, and you’ve got a Family Rail Day that’s as smooth as the tracks ahead.
Ready to plan? Book your Midway stay at Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa and let our team help you map the perfect day. Call 435.657.0180 or explore current specials to get started.