Things To Do Near Golden Spike National Historical Park
If you're visiting from May to October, check the schedule and come when the park rangers are running the Jupiter and No. 119 steam locomotives. The rest of the year, you can check out the trains up close in the engine house.
Hiking Trails
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Big Fill Loop Trail
There's one official hiking trail in Golden Spike National Historical Park: the Big Fill Loop Trail. It takes you along the original course of the historic Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroad grades, offering an interesting look at how the tracks were constructed in the 1800s. As you hike, keep an eye out for the way the railroad cut through rocks and how workers filled in areas to create a safe surface.
Location
Big Fill Loop Trail parking lot
Length
1.5 miles round-trip
Intensity
Easy
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Chinese Arch Trail
Explore the area around a special rock arch on the Chinese Arch Trail. This short, easy path runs from the parking lot to the arch itself. It was chosen by the National Park Service to honor the lives, effort, and sacrifice of the many Chinese workers who brought the Transcontinental Railroad to life. The workers were often paid less and treated poorly, despite their outsized contributions. The Chinese Arch is a Cuprous Quartzite arch; it was chosen to honor the lives of the workers because it's rare, highly visible, and also found in China.
Location
Chinese Arch Trail parking lot
Length
0.25 mile
Intensity
Easy
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Deep Canyon Trail
Look over the desert and Golden Spike National Historical Park from the Deep Canyon Trail. It's located about 49 miles east in the Wellsville Mountains, and it's one of the best local trails for hikers looking for a challenge. The path climbs high into the steep mountains, wrapping around peaks and taking you up to high passes. The entire route is 16 miles round-trip, but you can leave a second vehicle at the mouth of Coldwater Canyon for an easier one-way hike.
Location
W 300 N, Mendon, UT 84325
Length
8 miles one way
Intensity
Difficult
Sightseeing
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East and West Auto Tours
If you're interested in American railroad history, don't miss a drive along the east and west auto tour routes. Together, they cover 9 miles, offering an interesting overview of features such as fills, culverts, and cuts. The east route is open all year, but the western option usually closes down in the winter. If you're driving in an RV, keep in mind that these routes are open only to passenger vehicles; trailers and RVs are not allowed.
Location
Visitor center
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Engine House
If you're coming to Golden Spike National Historical Park in the winter, head to the Engine House. From mid-October to April, the two famous steam locomotives stay inside while park staff maintains and repair them. Take a tour of the engine house when it's available, or stop in to take photos of the trains.
Location
6400 N Road
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Spiral Jetty
While you're visiting Golden Spike National Historical Park, it's well worth your time to make the 15-mile drive to the Spiral Jetty. This unique earthwork art by Robert Smithson features a spiral strip of land that extends out into the Great Salt Lake. Smithson sculpted the jetty out of basalt rocks, mud, and salt — remarkable, considering that it's 1,500 feet long and 15 feet wide. During your visit, you can walk out onto the jetty and enjoy the views of the lake and the distant mountains.
Location
Corinne, UT 84307
Museums
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ATK Rocket Garden
When you're ready to stretch your legs, head to the ATK Rocket Garden, which is located a short drive from Golden Spike National Historical Park. This outdoor museum features a variety of rockets that have been developed at the Northrop Grumman facility over the years; educational signs explain each one. You can walk right up to each rocket, making this a great stop for both adults and kids.
Location
9160 UT-83, Corinne, UT 84307
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Bear River Valley Museum
If you love quirky, small-town spots, don't miss the Bear River Valley Museum. This friendly museum chronicles the local history through a series of excellent exhibits. The collection of artifacts and historical photos are particularly interesting.
Location
11 E Main St, Tremonton, UT 84337
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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The Classic Shop
The Classic Shop carries a range of clothing and accessories for women, men, and kids. From themed local T-shirts to trendy shoes, it offers a bit of everything.
Location
472 W Main St Suite 3, Tremonton, UT 84337
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Kent's Market
Kent's Market is one of the closest grocery stores to Golden Spike National Historical Park, so it's a good place to stock your RV before a camping trip.
Location
300 E Main St, Tremonton, UT 84337
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Handmade is Heartmade
If you love to sew, don't miss the excellent Handmade is Heartmade. Packed with unique fabric options and an array of quilting supplies, it has something for every crafter.
Location
117 W Main St, Tremonton, UT 84337
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The Grille Restaurant
Casual and family friendly, The Grille Restaurant has a large, varied menu. Whether you're interested in burgers, steaks, or seafood, you'll find plenty of choices.
Location
1410 W Main St, Tremonton, UT 84337
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J C's Country Diner
Feel like a local at J C's Country Diner, a friendly spot that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Keep an eye out for the daily lunch and dinner specials, which come at remarkably affordable prices.
Location
10260 N 5200 W, Elwood, UT 84337
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Tamashi Sushi & Ramen Bar
If you're craving sushi, head to the Tamashi Sushi & Ramen Bar. Here, you'll find everything from traditional rolls to pad Thai.
Location
472 W Main St, Tremonton, UT 84337