Summary
It is a tribute to the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States, which occurred on May 10, 1869. The site is home to several interesting points of interest, including the historic railroad grade, a replica of the Jupiter locomotive, and the original ceremony site where the golden spike was driven.
Visitors to the site can watch reenactments of the golden spike ceremony, take a guided tour, or explore the museum, which features exhibits on the history of the railroad and its impact on the country. The site also offers several hiking trails and picnic areas.
Interesting facts about Golden Spike National Historic Site include that the railroad was built by two competing companies, the Central Pacific and the Union Pacific, who raced to complete the line first. The final spike was made of gold and was driven into a tie to symbolize the completion of the project. The spike was later removed and is now on display at Stanford University.
The best time of year to visit Golden Spike National Historic Site is in the summer months when the site offers daily ranger-led programs and special events, including the reenactment of the golden spike ceremony. However, visitors should be prepared for hot temperatures and limited shade. The site is open year-round, and winter visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the trails.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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