Local Travel Tip

During chillier months, many prefer to visit tropical locales where they can lay by the beach and soak up some rays. While this can be a wonderful escape from the everyday mundane, there are other things that one can do to really take advantage of the “Winter Wonderland” that is only available for several months out of the  year.

Park City, Utah, home of the 2002 Winter Olympics, is the place to go if you really want to experience a thrill. Not only is there plenty of skiing and snowboarding available to enthusiasts, but there are options to take part in extreme sports, as well. The Utah Olympic Park is the place to go if you want to feel like a real Olympic athlete.

During the summer, the place comes alive with tourists wanting to hitch a ride on the Alpine Coaster or Alpine Slide; however, the winter brings a new crop of individuals seeking diverse fun. Anyone who feels ready to tackle the Nordic Jumps or Bobsled Track can do so for a fee.

There are plenty of fun activities to take part in for those who want to relax by the fire or play in the snow; make Park City your next vacation destination!

When I first arrived here in Utah, one of the first things I heard about as a “must see/do” was the Heber Creeper. The Heber Creeper is an old fashioned train ride around the Heber Valley/Provo Canyon area. It features two 1907 Baldwin steam locomotives and three vintage diesel electric locomotives. Over 95,000 passengers ride this attraction per year. Passengers are allowed to move between cars on most rides. Some cars are open to the air, while others are not.

I had a chance to go on the Provo Canyon Limited, which is a scenic three hour train ride. Provo Canyon is quite beautiful at certain times of the year. I really enjoyed the atmosphere of the older train and being able to relax and enjoy the nature going by. I was able to go with my Aunt and her family, including two of my cousins who were between ages 2 and 5. While a little unsure about the whistle at first, they loved the train! It was so much fun to be able to spend time with them.

For those of you who more action oriented the Heber Creeper does offer several holiday related events through out the year however. Right now, they are offering the family friendly Haunted Canyon Ride. On this ride passengers are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes, but dress warmly.

Also upcoming are the December related events including the Bells’ n’ Whistles, The Polar Express, and the Tube n’ Train. In Bells’ n’ Whistles passengers ride the train for awhile and then take a horse-pulled sleigh ride up to a ranch where warm treats are enjoyed. The Polar Express is a special treat for any child, including Santa, elves, story reading, and warm treats. Tube n’ Train is popular among the young adults, where the Heber Creeper is taken to a location where snow tubing complete with tow services are provided. More information can be found at: http://www.hebervalleyrr.org/excursions/pcl.php

 The trees turn vibrant colors and begin to fall to the ground. The wind picks up and the sky becomes overcast. Many families face a dilemma when the cold weather picks up. Outdoor activities are no longer an option for families with small children, at least without snow. So what kinds of family activities are still available in the Utah valley? Here are a few ideas for cold weather, local vacations: