Wasatch: Nature, Trails and Unique Experiences

Wasatch combines expansive landscapes, active days and unusual discoveries. Wasatch Mountain State Park is a protected area covering nearly 23,000 acres, established by the state in 1961. There are also trails through mountain landscapes, forests and along bodies of water, as well as special places such as a geothermal spring inside a limestone dome. Depending on whether you are looking for nature, exercise, water, history or regional specialties, you can shape your stay in different ways.

Nature Experiences Among Trails, Water and Mountains

Midway offers miles of well-maintained trails for walks, runs and bike rides. In Wasatch County, the Wasatch Trails Foundation also maintains more than 175 multi-use trails. The trail network includes both scenic walking paths and challenging hiking trails with mountain views, forest sections and bodies of water. This allows you to plan your days at your preferred pace without committing to just one type of outdoor activity.

There is also a clearly described option for cycling: A 20-mile, continuously paved bike path runs through and around downtown Midway to visitor centers at Wasatch Mountain State Park to the north and Soldier Hollow to the south. The Jordanelle Basin forms the northern gateway to Wasatch County and offers a connected trail network for hikers and cyclists.

At Hailstone Recreation Area, camping, fishing, wakeboarding, water skiing, canoeing and motorboating take center stage. Deer Creek State Park offers zipline tours over Rainbow Bay. Those looking for a quieter, unusual experience can include The Crater at Homestead in their plans: The natural spring lies inside a 55-foot-high limestone dome. The mineral-rich water is kept at approximately 90–96 °F year-round.

Sports, History and Regional Character

The Soldier Hollow Nordic Center is located above the town of Midway in Wasatch Mountain State Park. Soldier Hollow's Sport Discovery Center hosts events such as the U.S. Cross Country Skiing Championships and the annual Soldier Hollow Classic Sheepdog Championships. These places combine sports history and an event atmosphere in a way that can also be interesting beyond a purely active vacation.

The history of the Heber Valley Historic Railroad began in 1899, when its trains served the pioneers who first settled the valley. All rides and adventures with the Heber Valley Railroad depart from the Heber Depot unless otherwise indicated. For travel to the area or further excursions, the Wasatch Back 106 bus route provides a connection to Park City.

Local traditions also give Wasatch its own character. Midway Swiss Days was founded in 1947 and takes place every fall. Kohler Creamery, located on a historic dairy farm, offers a culinary addition. Its offerings include guided cheese tastings with a short tasting lesson, a blind tasting of 20 flavors and three local pairings.

Which Location Fits Your Travel Plans

When choosing a vacation rental or vacation home, it is worth first organizing the experiences you want. Midway is a good point of reference if trails, cycling and Soldier Hollow are the focus. For a trip centered on the Heber Valley Railroad, the Heber Depot should be part of your plans. Those who prefer water activities can consider Hailstone Recreation Area and Deer Creek State Park. This way, you choose your accommodation not only by the place name, but by the rhythm you want to give your stay.

For further orientation, you can also explore Heber City, Midway, Timber Lakes and Wallsburg. Other destinations to search include Uintah County, Emery, Box Elder County and Juab.

For the broader travel overview: Utah.