The National Park Service (NPS) Golden Spike National Historical Site is a must-visit for all railfans and American history buffs. Promontory, Utah is the location of the completion of the first Transcontinental Railroad on May 10, 1869. This historic event marked the joining of the Central Pacific Railroad from the west with the Union Pacific Railroad from the east, connecting the two coasts of the United States for the first time. That day, the ceremonial Golden Spike was driven, unifying the nation geographically, accelerating westward expansion, and establishing America as a world economic force. While the town of Promontory has since disappeared, the site still honors the importance of the Transcontinental Railroad and the workers who made it possible.

 

The Park Visitor Center features exhibits, a theater, bookstore, and picnic areas. Stop there first to learn about the history from park rangers and watch an informational video. Also check out the Golden Spike in the Visitor Center, but don't get too excited; it's just a replica (the original is at the Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University). In the summer, visitors can see the steam locomotives Jupiter and No. 119, which are replicas of the original engines that met at Promontory Summit in 1869 (the originals were scrapped a long time ago). While no train rides are available, at 1:00 each day, the engines perform a run-around so that visitors can see them in action (note that there are "boiler wash days" throughout the summer, which takes the engines out of service; check website to confirm the dates). In the winter, the steam trains are kept in the Engine House, but it is open for guided tours with a special look behind the scenes.

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HOT TIP: Be sure to participate in the Junior Ranger Program, where kids, families, and adults can learn about the park. Pick up a free activity booklet at the Visitor Center, which includes educational activities and scavenger hunts. Explore the park and fill out the booklet to get to know the park better. Return back to the Visitor Center with the completed booklet, take a pledge to protect the park, and receive a Junior Ranger badge. While the program is designed for children, people of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate.