We’ve been driving for what seems like hours, climbing over hills, overtaking the occasional semi truck, heading into the middle of seemingly nowhere. After yet another climb, we finally flatten out into a lush valley (well, lush for northern Utah) and I can see something in the distance: colorful dots on the horizon next to a small building. Are those the trains? I can’t tell for a while because like an oasis, driving through rolling hills can often play tricks on the mind and make your eyes see things that aren’t really there. Nope, those are the trains. We’re here! We finally made it to The Golden Spike National Monument and now I have to use the restroom.
The Golden Spike National Monument is a place that Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory would love to visit. Or maybe even live. Although he might find it way too dirty. Whatever the case, a visit would be a dream come true for lovers of history, trains, and all things Americana. My first visit to see the Golden Spike happened so long ago, I can hardly remember the details. What I can remember, however, are the feelings of patriotism, nostalgia, and historical significance, even at a young age (think grade school-aged). If you’re planning a visit to Utah and want to get out of Salt Lake City, or if you’re looking for an awesome stay-cation destination, might I suggest a visit to the Golden Spike National Monument? Live out your inner-child’s dream and get up close and personal with a couple of ginormous replica steam locomotives!
History of the Golden Spike
The 1800s in the United States saw a major movement west, and as more and more companies of people took advantage of the Manifest Destiny notion, it became apparent that handcarts, wagon trains, and oxen were slow, inefficient, and expendable. The locomotive became the obvious choice for the western expansion boom, and two competing companies, the Union Pacific and Central Pacific, sought to dominate the landscape. After years of intense competition, pressure from Congress forced the two companies to join at Promontory Summit. On May 10, 1869, the Union Pacific and Central Pacific Railroads were finally joined together, and was commemorated by a Golden Spike being driven into the track. The two railways, joining Omaha, Nebraska, and Sacramento, California, officially became the first transcontinental railroad in the United States.
Today, visitors can witness a reenactment of the ceremony, stare in wonder at the sheer size of locomotive replicas, learn about life for the immigrant workers who made this railway possible, and immerse themselves in 1869. Although the locomotives are only replicas, they were built within 1/2″ of the originals, are fully functional, and look identical to the originals. Get up close and personal with Jupiter and No. 119! They’re great for selfies! For a more detailed history, check out this article!
Golden Spike from Salt Lake City ~87 miles
- Head North on I-15
- Exit #365
- Make a right (west) onto Promontory Road (Highway 13)
- Highway 13 becomes Highway 38 – don’t freak out!
- Follow the signs to The Golden Spike National Historic Site
Things to Remember
*You will be out in the middle of nowhere, so cell service might be spotty once you reach the site.
*Although the trains are replicas, they are within .5″ of the originals and fully functional.
*You will drive over the train tracks to reach the site. Even though the lines are no longer functioning, make sure to look both ways before crossing as there are no crossing arms or lights. Don’t worry, you can see for miles out there!
Things to do at the Golden Spike Memorial
* Gift shop – there’s an awesome gift shop with train whistles, postcards, wooden toys and historical videos that are available for purchase. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, I’d recommend scoping out the swag. You never know what treasure you’ll find.
*Videos – there are 5 rotating videos that are shown at the visitor center, ranging from historical documentaries to a Charlie Brown cartoon, all educational and fun. If you’re visiting during the summer, this is an awesome activity to get you out of the heat and off of your feet!
*Guided Tours – did you know that you can take a tour of the engine house on the weekends? Although the locomotives are on display May-October, they’re maintained in an engine house just down the road from the visitor center for preservation.
*Within the visitor center is a small museum, complete with artifacts, stationery, photographs, and posters. It’s amazing to see what has survived!
Optional side trip
Finished up at The Golden Spike National Historic Site, but not quite ready to head home? As long as there isn’t a torrential downpour, drive past the visitor center and head on over to the Spiral Jetty, just a few miles down the road. Although the road isn’t paved, it is well-maintained and wide. No off-road vehicles needed…I did it in Victor, my Honda Civic!
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