The visitor center at Golden Spike National Historical Park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM MDT. From early November to mid-April, it is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The center is also closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
The entrance fee at Golden Spike National Historical Park is $20 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Individual entrance is $10, and motorcycles are $15. Annual passes are $35. Fees apply to those 16 years old and older.
From Brigham City, take Highway 83 northwest for 32 miles, immerse yourself in the historic grandeur of America’s first transcontinental railroad.
There is a large parking lot in front of the visitor center, accommodating cars, RVs, and motorcycles. No overnight parking is allowed. A $20 per vehicle fee or America the Beautiful National Parks Pass is required.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Golden Spike National Historical Park, situated in the high desert environment of the Promontory Mountains near the north end of the Great Salt Lake, is a site of profound historical significance and natural beauty. This 2,735-acre park preserves a 15-mile stretch of the original Transcontinental Railroad, where the Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroads converged on May 10, 1869, marked by the ceremonial driving of the golden spike.
The park’s remote valley setting, surrounded by the arid yet striking landscape of the Great Basin, offers a unique blend of history and nature. Visitors can explore the site where the last spike was driven, just yards from the Visitor Center, and witness reenactments featuring life-size, operational replicas of the Jupiter and No. 119 steam locomotives.
The West Grade and East Grade auto tour routes take you through the challenging terrain that the railroad builders faced, including the Final Cut and the Chinese Arch, a natural limestone arch honoring the Chinese laborers who played a crucial role in the railroad’s construction. The Big Fill Loop Trail allows you to walk out to a large ravine filled in to support the line, a testament to the engineering feats of the era.
Seasonal changes paint the landscape in different hues; spring brings a blossoming of desert wildflowers, summer offers clear skies and warm days ideal for hiking, and winter transforms the area into a serene, snow-covered expanse. While the park itself does not directly border the Great Salt Lake, the nearby waters are home to a variety of fish species, including brine shrimp and brine flies that attract countless migratory birds.
Special events at the park include anniversary celebrations and reenactments of the historic joining of the rails. For a more immersive experience, visitors can explore the nearby town of Corinne, known for its historic charm and local artisans. Before heading out, it is advisable to check for any road closures due to winter conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey to this historic and visually stunning destination.
- Area (mi²)
- 4.3
- Annual visitors
- 56 000
- Established year
- 1957
Top 3 Facts about Golden Spike National Historical Park
The site includes 2 miles of rebuilt track, designed to authentically represent the 1869 rails, stretching from the summit area to a train storage building, and features historical landmarks like the Big Fill and Big Trestle, which were part of the original railroad construction.
In this arid to semiarid landscape, sagebrush and mixed stands of grasses dominate, though nonnative species and noxious weeds are prevalent. Coyotes, mule deer, bobcats, and badgers roam the terrain, while 98 bird species and 19 reptile species add to the biodiversity. Elevation varies from 4,360 to 5,280 feet, with annual precipitation mostly as snow. The rare presence of perennial streams, such as Blue Creek, supports a unique ecosystem amidst the hillsides and mountains. This vast, untouched viewshed remains largely unchanged since 1869.
Elevations here range from 4,300 to 4,900 feet, with hillsides and mountains sculpted by geological forces that have created a dramatic landscape. The arid terrain is dotted with semiarid shrubland, grassland, and woodland ecosystems, while annual precipitation averages 8-12 inches, mostly as snow. Temperatures swing from 20°F in winter to 104°F in summer, highlighting the stark beauty of this high desert environment. Chinaman’s Arch, a 20-foot limestone formation, stands as a testament to the region’s unique geology.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Youth Conservation
- Scouting Partnerships
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a half-day visit for the highlights or a few days to explore all trails. Arrive early to catch the steam locomotive reenactments. Bring food and water, as options are limited. Check winter road conditions. Wear sturdy shoes for gravel and rocky terrain. Rest often and enjoy the scenic auto tours. Ideal during spring for mild weather.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking shoes, and a first aid kit. For camping, bring a tent, sleeping bag, and headlamp. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing them. Never feed animals and dispose of trash properly to preserve natural behaviors and habitats. Stay on designated trails to minimize impact. Respect the environment as you would your own.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water, and check weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 435-471-2209. Be aware of fire restrictions and seasonal temperature changes.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (50s-60s°F) and clear skies make for an ideal visit. Witness the May 10th Commemorative Ceremony, honoring the transcontinental railroad’s completion, with historical reenactments and locomotive demonstrations. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.
Summer brings warm days (80s-90s°F) and vibrant events. Witness the Living History Demonstration from Memorial Day to Labor Day, featuring steam locomotive runs and historical reenactments. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, despite the heat.
Experience the Railroaders Festival this fall, as crisp autumn air (40s-60s°F) sets the stage for frontier games, handcar rides, and historical reenactments, celebrating the legacy of the transcontinental railroad.[/s]
Visit from December to March for crisp skies and celestial views. Temperatures often drop below 30°F, but clear skies and less crowds make it ideal for stargazing and behind-the-scenes engine house tours. Perfect for those seeking a serene, historic winter experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Golden Spike National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the park is Corinne, Utah, which is approximately 23 miles east-southeast of the site.
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The Big Fill Loop Trail is the easiest hiking trail, a 1.5-mile loop that takes about an hour to an hour and a half to walk. It follows the original course of the historic Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroad grades from the 1800s. The trail is easy and flat, with no shade, so it’s important to bring water and wear appropriate clothing.
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Dogs are allowed in the outdoor areas but must be on a leash no longer than six feet. They are not permitted inside the Visitor’s Center. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs.
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Overnight RV parking is not allowed. The park does not have camping facilities for motorhomes, camper vans, or trailers. Visitors must find alternative camping sites outside the park.
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The Golden Spike symbolizes the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States, achieved on May 10, 1869, at Promontory Summit in Utah. This event, led by Leland Stanford, connected the Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroads, revolutionizing transportation and commerce by linking the eastern and western parts of the country. It marked a significant milestone in American history, fostering economic growth and westward expansion.