Attractions and Places To See around Midway - Top 17
Best attractions and places to see around Midway include a variety of natural features, historic sites, and cultural venues set against a picturesque landscape often compared to the Swiss Alps. The region offers opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration of its unique geological formations. Visitors can discover 17 hidden gems, ranging from geothermal hot springs to Olympic venues. The area's history is reflected in its architecture and annual festivals.
Best attractions and places to see around Midway
- The most popular…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Lake Catherine
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Martha
Highlight • Lake
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Sunset Peak
Highlight • Summit
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Scrambling on ridgeline
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
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Big Cottonwood Climb
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
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What a view!... From the north, Sunset Peak can be climbed via the Brighton Ski Resort – 5.62 miles (9.04 km) round trip – 1,936 feet (approx. 600 m) elevation gain on well-maintained (mountain) trails, past three wonderful mountain lakes (Lake Mary = the first lake, more of a reservoir), Lake Martha, and Lake Catharina, and then over the pass to the summit. 360° views, and there's room to "relax" at the summit too. A second alternative route leads from the west via the Catherine Pass Trailhead – 3.88 miles (6.24 km) round trip – 1,440 feet (approx. 450 m) elevation gain. There's a fee for this, but it offers wonderful views right from the start...it's worth it!
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This challenging climb begins in the picturesque Big Cottonwood Canyon, a stunning alpine valley nestled in the Wasatch Range, and ascends toward Guardsman Pass. The early stretch features a gentle grade, but as you progress, the road becomes steeper with tight, twisting corners that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding canyon. As you near the top, the scenery intensifies, revealing dramatic mountain vistas, with the climb culminating at Guardsman Pass, where the panorama stretches across the valley. The descent is equally thrilling but requires caution due to sharp turns and the potential for hikers or parked cars along the road.
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Lake Catherine is a stark beauty set against the alpine backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. It is the last of the three Brighton Lakes, or lakes Mary, Martha, and Catherine, which you'd encounter in that order as you run this trail.
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This is arguably the most difficult section of the Brighton Ridge Run, sometimes also known as the Brighton Peaks Loop — or a challenging destination in and of itself. Careful routefinding should be able to keep you out of technical climbing terrain, but there's no getting around sections of steep, sometimes exposed scrambling with potential for serious injury if you fall. Make sure you've checked the weather forecast before you tackle this challenging, time-intensive hike. You wouldn't want to be up here during a thunderstorm.
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The second of the three Brighton Lakes, Lake Martha is much smaller than the first lake. Its surroundings are a little more stark too, as you transition from wildflower meadows to rocky alpine beauty.
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Lake Catherine is a stark beauty set against the alpine backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains; it is the last of the three Brighton Lakes, or lakes Mary, Martha, and Catherine in that order.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I explore around Midway?
Midway is home to several distinctive natural attractions. You can visit the Homestead Crater, a geothermal hot spring within a 55-foot limestone dome, offering year-round swimming, soaking, and even warm-water scuba diving. The area also features Lake Catherine and Lake Martha, both set against the alpine backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains, offering serene natural experiences.
What historical sites and cultural attractions are there in Midway?
Midway boasts a rich history and cultural heritage. You can explore the Midway Town Hall, partly constructed from unique 'pot rock' and featuring a Swiss Glockenspiel. Discover historic 'pot rock' homes throughout the town, showcasing early pioneer architecture. Don't miss the Legacy Bridge, Utah's longest covered bridge, or Memorial Hill for panoramic views and historical significance. The Heber Valley Railroad, known as 'The Heber Creeper,' offers scenic train rides through the valley.
Are there family-friendly activities available in Midway?
Yes, Midway offers many family-friendly options. Enjoy a scenic ride on the Heber Valley Railroad. Wasatch Mountain State Park and Deer Creek State Park provide opportunities for picnicking, gentle hikes, and water activities. During winter, Soldier Hollow Nordic Center offers tubing, and the seasonal Ice Castles (though not open for 2025/26) are a popular attraction when available.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in the Midway area?
For breathtaking vistas, head to Sunset Peak, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape after a hike. Memorial Hill also provides panoramic views of the valley. The Big Cottonwood Climb offers dramatic mountain vistas as you ascend towards Guardsman Pass.
What outdoor activities can I do near Midway's attractions?
The Midway area is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. You can enjoy hiking and biking on numerous trails in Wasatch Mountain State Park and the surrounding Heber Valley. Deer Creek State Park is perfect for water sports like fishing, windsurfing, and boating. Golfers can choose from several stunning courses, including Homestead and Soldier Hollow. Horseback riding opportunities are also available, for example, at Soldier Hollow Stables.
Are there hiking trails around Midway's attractions?
Absolutely. You can hike to beautiful spots like Lake Catherine and Lake Martha, or challenge yourself with the climb to Sunset Peak. For more options, explore the various running trails available in the region, which you can find in the Running Trails around Midway guide.
Where can I go mountain biking or road cycling near Midway?
Midway offers excellent opportunities for both mountain biking and road cycling. You can find a variety of routes, from moderate to difficult, that take you through scenic landscapes and past attractions like the Homestead Crater. For detailed routes and guides, check out the MTB Trails around Midway guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Midway guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Midway for outdoor activities?
Midway is beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer and fall are ideal for hiking, biking, and water sports, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing, tubing at Soldier Hollow Nordic Center, and enjoying the seasonal Ice Castles (when available).
What is 'pot rock' and where can I see it in Midway?
'Pot rock,' also known as tufa, is a unique limestone precipitate formed from the local geothermal waters. Many early pioneer homes in Midway were constructed using this distinctive material, giving the town a unique architectural character. You can see examples of 'pot rock' architecture on a historic properties walk downtown and at the Midway Town Hall.
What is the Homestead Crater and what can I do there?
The Homestead Crater is a unique geothermal hot spring located inside a 55-foot tall, beehive-shaped limestone dome. Its mineral-rich waters maintain a constant temperature of 90-96 degrees Fahrenheit. Visitors can enjoy swimming, soaking, snorkeling, and even the only warm-water scuba diving in the United States within this natural wonder.
Are there any Olympic venues to visit in Midway?
Yes, Midway played a significant role in the 2002 Winter Olympics. The Soldier Hollow Nordic Center hosted cross-country skiing, biathlon, and Nordic combined events and continues to offer winter activities like cross-country skiing and tubing, as well as golf in warmer months. Wasatch Mountain State Park also hosted Olympic events.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural attractions around Midway?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Highlights like Lake Catherine are appreciated for their 'stark beauty set against the alpine backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains.' The panoramic views from Sunset Peak are also a favorite, offering a rewarding experience after a hike.
Most popular attractions around Midway
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