Utah, located in the western United States, is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from arid deserts to snow capped mountains. Utah is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding resorts in the Wasatch Mountains, including Park City and Deer Valley. The state is also home to five stunning national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion, each showcasing breathtaking rock formations, canyons, and natural arches. There are passenger trains in Utah – long-distance trains operated by Amtrak, tourist railway and mass transit system in Salt Lake City.
Long-distance trains in Utah
There are four Amtrak stations in Utah: Salt Lake City (most important station), Green River, Helper and Provo. The Caliphornia Zephyr train from Chicago to Emeryville stop at the stations. There is only one train in each direction each day.
Luxury excursion train Rocky Mountaineer offers trips through Utah state.
Commuter trains in Utah
There is a commuter rail Front Runner running from Salt Lake City to North Ogden and Provo. Trains are operated by Utah Transit Authority (UTA). Salt-Lake City has light-rail systems. Total length of the Front Runner commuter line is 88 miles. Trains stop at 17 stations. Front Runner was put into operation in 1988. Future extension to Brigham City and as far south as Payson are proposed.
TRAX light rail connects downtown of the Salt Lake City and airport – 20-minute ride takes you into the heart of the capital of Utah.
rideuta.com – official website
Tourist trains in Utah
There is the only one tourist train in Utah.
Heber Valley Railroad – standard-gauge tourist railway from Heber City to Viviam Park. Trains are steam or diesel hauled. Trains run most Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year and daily (except Mondays) from June to early October. Passengers usually travel travel through the south end of the Heber Valley, and around the Deer Creek Reservoir. Trains are comprised of refurbhished cars from 1920s or 1930s, observation car from 1930 and lounge/bar car from 1949.
Heber Valley Railroad – official website
Golden Spike National Historical Park
An interesting place for railway enthusiasts is Golden Spike National Historical Park. It commemorates the completion of the first Transcontinental Railroad where the Central Pacific Railroad and the first Union Pacific Railroad met on May 10, 1869. The line was abandoned and rerouted in 1904. The site presently includes 2 miles of rebuilt track. The nearest city is Corinne, approximately 23 miles east-southeast of the site.
Related articles:
Railways in the United States of America by state
