Golden Spike
National Historical Park
Welcome!
Completion of the first US transcontinental railroad was one of the greatest technological achievements of the 19th century. See the site of the Last Spike and railroad construction features from 1869. Walk or drive on the original railroad grade, and get an up-close view of replica Victorian-era locomotives.
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Explore the Park
Located in northern Utah, Golden Spike was re-designated as a national historical park on March 12, 2019. The park commemorates the connection of the Union Pacific Railroad and the Central Pacific Railroad at Promontory Summit, where the final spike was driven to form the first transcontinental railroad in the United States. Golden Spike National Historical Park protects the memory of the thousands of workers who helped build the railroad, including Civil War veterans, formerly enslaved African Americans, Irish and Chinese immigrants, American Indians, and Mormons. Chinese workers in particular faced discrimination, earning lower wages than the other workers. During the construction of the railroad, the Central Pacific team of mainly Chinese workers set a record of laying more than 10 miles of train track in one day, a record that still holds today. Park visitors can observe Chinese Arch, a unique geological feature that was named for the Chinese immigrants who helped build the railroad, many of whom were injured or lost their lives in the process.
Stories from Golden Spike
WNPA has provided more than
$136 million
in aid to our partner parks to fund educational programs, initiatives, and scientific research
Kids in Parks
National parks are places where kids can dream up great adventures! Taking in amazing scenery. Testing out new skills. Exploring places kids may have only heard about. But most importantly, creating new memories with friends and family.
What’s Happening at This Park?
Stories from all parks
Our public lands are our public commons. They belong to all of us as part of our natural and cultural heritage. They remind us of a larger world that has existed long before the arrival of humans and will survive long after we are gone. –Terry Tempest Williams, Author & Conservationist
Related Parks
Bring the Parks Home
When you can’t get to a national park for a visit, experience it from the comfort of your home. WNPA’s online store is packed with ranger-approved park collectibles, books, toys, and clothing. Shop for a special item.
