Utah's Gorgeous Green Valley Feels Like A Little Europe Scattered With Small Scenic Towns And Peaks

While there are some budget-friendly ways to enjoy European cities, let's face it— traveling to Europe isn't exactly cheap. But there are ways to experience serene European vibes and quaint village scenery on your next vacation, while still remaining within the United States. Heber Valley, located 45 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, is full of amazing adventures like ziplining and hot air balloon rides. Surrounding this valley are picturesque neighborhoods reminiscent of quaint European villages that will make you feel like you have been transported to the Swiss Alps. You will see old railroads and rustic barns along the countryside, adding to the old-world charm. 

While you might have a particular idea of where to visit in Europe based on your interests, there's something for everyone in Heber Valley. A large group of immigrants from Germany and Switzerland settled here in the 1850s, and there has been a thriving Swiss community ever since. You can see Swiss influences everywhere, from culture to cuisine. Midway, one of the valley towns with the heaviest Swiss influence, holds a yearly local festival to celebrate its cultural roots. Midway Swiss Days usually take place during Labor Day weekend. 

Although Midway usually draws the attention of most travelers with its charming village vibes, Heber City is the valley's main town and home of the Heber Valley Railway. Travelers can take the train from the Heber Depot to see marvelous sights around the valley, including Wasatch Mountain and Mount Timpanogos' spectacular peak. The depot, located at 450 South 600 West in Heber City, is open Monday through Saturday year-round. It's a far cry from America's longest train ride on the Texas Eagle, but you'll see breathtaking mountains, rivers, and diverse scenery. 

Heber Valley is an unsung gem amidst the Utah mountains, brimming with natural beauty and spectacular scenery. You will see a plethora of wildlife within its pristine mountain peaks and lush forests, perfect for birdwatching, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Visit waterfalls like Cascade Springs and Bridal Veil on your scenic drive, or take the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway to Provo River Falls. The Provo River is a prime spot for fishing and a favorite local recreation spot. This highway also takes you through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, where you can encounter a variety of wildlife around its gorgeous lakes and mountain lookout points. 

If you enjoy the great outdoors, visit Wasatch Mountain State Park, located at 1281 Warm Springs Road in Midway. Visitors can enjoy camping and golfing in the summer, and skiing in the winter. Deer Creek State Park, in Heber City, offers prime fishing spots in the summer months, and ice fishing in the winter. Jordanelle State Park offers a variety of fishing opportunities for bass and trout, as well as sailing, boating, and other watersports. Strawberry Reservoir, also in Heber City, is a prime spot for trout and salmon; it also has boat ramps and campgrounds for longer stays.

Hikers and bikers will love tackling trails around Heber Valley. Cascade Springs Trail is a short walking loop perfect for a quick hike through scenic creeks and bridges. The Duma Trail is good for short bike rides, and the Fairy Forest Trail, with painted rocks and fairy houses, is perfect for kids. There are more ambitious trails in the area, some spanning a few miles, like Mill Hollow Trail and Heber Valley Overlook. The rugged Sage Trail zigzagging through the valley is ideal for exploring on horseback. 

Since the Swiss village in Midway was erected back in the 1850s, Heber Valley has been popular for its rustic European ambiance and old-world charm. It's no surprise locals affectionately refer to it as the 'Little Switzerland of Utah' with all the cozy establishments and cute Swiss homes. Visitors will find Heber Valley Artisan Cheese, an adorable family-owned dairy farm in the heart of Midway. Stay at Zermatt Utah Resort and Spa for the full Swiss experience of vacationing in the Alps. They even have a delicious bakery where you can treat yourself to exotic European dishes.

There are other quaint towns in the area, each adding their own unique flavor to the Heber Valley. South of Midway, you'll find Charleston, with beautiful stately farmhouses and lovely Cascades Springs. Wallsburg is another charming town that travelers like to visit. It has an old 1897 brick schoolhouse and a 300-acre ranch museum, complete with steam engines, heavy-duty farm machinery, and unique vehicles. Park City is a charming ski town high above in the Utah peaks, and home of the 2002 Winter Olympics. 

After a rugged day of outdoor adventuring and exploring European-style towns, visitors can soak in natural hot springs, encased in a dome-shaped limestone ceiling, and pretend they are in a luxurious foreign spa. At the Homestead Crater, you'll be able to relax in warm waters as you feel your everyday cares melt away. Stop by The Milk House for some hot chocolate after your mountain spa experience to keep those Swiss vibes alive. This cozy cafe, located at 700 North Homestead Drive in Midway, features a delicious selection of pastries and fudge to satisfy your sweet tooth. It's also an ice cream parlor and coffee shop, perfect for visiting year-round.