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Though there is no longer a train station or ticket office in Promontory, the visitor center serves as a gateway to the history of one of the most significant events in the American west. Nearly all visitors at Golden Spike come here to see exhibits, view films, watch ranger presentations, and shop in the bookstore.
Steam Locomotives
During Winter the locomotives are in the Engine House for repairs and clean up. Rangers conduct Engine House tours Saturday and Sunday.
Special Events
The Railroader's Festival is held the second Saturday in August each year. This event offers wholesome family fun and stiff competition in events such as the handcar races or the world championship spike driving contest. All winners receive prizes.
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For Additional Information Contact:
Golden Spike
National National Historic Site |
On
July 30, 1965 Golden Spike National Historic Site was created "for the
purpose of establishing a national historic site commemorating the completion
of the first transcontinental railroad across the United States...
Some
690 miles east of Sacramento and 1,087 miles west of Omaha, Golden Spike
lies in the northern reaches of the Great Basin Desert and ranges from
4,300 to 4,900 feet above sea level. Located at the site of the driving
of the last spike of the first transcontinental railroad on May 10,
1869, its paramount purpose is to illustrate the social, economic, and
political impacts of the transcontinental railroad on the growth and
westward development of the United States. 
The
visitor center was built in 1969, just in time for the 100th anniversary
of the completion of the world's first transcontinental railroad. Now,
more than 50,000 people visit each year.
The
Steam Locomotives are on display and running daily from May 1 through
Labor Day. Photo runs only, no rides
are available.
Golden
Spike National Historic Site is proud to offer several special events
throughout the year. On May 10 for more than four decades a reenactment
of the "Driving of the Golden Spike Ceremony" has taken place at Promontory.
This great tradition is a testament to the rich heritage of the area
and the tremendous support of the local communities.