The History
Golden Spike National Historic Site is the place where, on May 10, 1869, the railroad built from the west and east coasts joined to span the North American continent with a final spike made of gold. The Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads met at Promontory Summit on that date, linking east and west and helping to open the Western frontier to rapid settlement.
The Scene
The location is now a National Historic Site, with a visitor center and daily events reenacting the past glory and informing the public about piece of history. Replicas of the Central Pacific's Jupiter and the Union Pacific's 119 run daily from the first Saturday in April to Columbus Day in October. Daily trackside talks, weekend reenactments, and a self-guided 1.5-mile walk highlight the Golden Spike National Historic Site's features. On the anniversary of the driving of the golden spike, there is a special reenactment. There is also an annual Railroader's Festival in August with train enthusiasts gathering in the park. There are no camping, lodging, or food facilities in the park, so bring your own. It's 26 miles to town from the site.