Ultimate Christmas Train Ride Is In Utah Mountains

If you love Christmas, this may be the year you take the North Pole Express in Heber. I have taken a ride on the train through the Heber Valley, but not during Christmas. If you have cookies and milk in your blood, this should probably be on your bucket list.  

From the website, this looks like a lot of fun: 

A family favorite, this 90-minute round trip to the North Pole includes hot cocoa and Mrs. Claus' famous chocolate chip cookies. You'll sing along to new and traditional Christmas favorites on the way and be entertained by our hosts, elves cocoa chefs, and special guests. When we reach the North Pole Santa will join us for the return trip and greet each child and present them with a special gift. 

You may want to dress as Tom Hanks in a conductor uniform and spirit your kids off in the middle of the night. When they see the train lit up with lights, it could make a very memorable year. Of course, this may become a tradition for years to come. 

This historic operating railroad is owned by the State of Utah. The tracks were built in 1899 and the passenger cars go back to the golden age or railroading in the 1920’s. About 450 people can ride each time the train departs.  

You will pass lighted villages and trees and finally end at the North Pole. This would set the bar pretty high. If you are in competition to be the favorite grandparent, just sayin’.