Plan A Field Trip

Kids Day

NPS photo

Golden Spike National Historical Park offers a variety of ranger-led field trips tailored for student groups of all ages. The story of the Transcontinental Railroad includes many cultures, communities, and contributions from across the United States and around the world. At the park, students can visit the site where the last spike was driven, explore the historic railroad grade, and discover the many fascinating stories that shaped this pivotal moment in American history.

Our educational programs are aligned with Common Core and Utah Learning Standards. We work closely with educators to design meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that support classroom goals and inspire curiosity. Whether you're planning a field trip or looking to enrich your curriculum, Golden Spike offers opportunities for impactful, standards-based learning.

 

What to know

Before you go

All programs require pre-registration. Ranger-led programs are offered year-round and must be scheduled at least 30 days in advance. Availability is not guaranteed. Field trip offerings are based on seasonal resource availability.

Guidelines

All academic field trips must have a field trip reservation form filled out prior to visiting the park.

• Educational fee waivers are not granted on holidays, during special events, or on weekends. We are unable to accept any school groups May 5th-12th, 2026.

• October – April we are unable to accept school groups Tuesdays-Wednesdays due to seasonal visitor center closure. Group sizes are limited seasonally due to staffing availability.

• 2025/2026 School Group Reservations will open July 28th, 2025

To Request a Program

Fill out an educational reservation request form and email it to the education program coordinator at [e-mail].
*A digital version of the form also may be filled out and submitted through the park website through this link.*

Park Programs Offered

Locomotive Demonstration and Student Led Living History Demonstration: (May-September)

Students can watch live steam locomotive demonstrations and lead living history demonstrations of the May 10th, 1869, ceremony. Students are also provided the opportunity to view exhibits, watch the park movie, and engage with park staff as they discover the diverse history of Golden Spike National Historical Park.

Winter Engine House Tour and Ranger Program: (Oct-April)

In the winter months, locomotives undergo maintenance at the Engine House, providing a unique opportunity for students to see Jupiter and N.O 119 in a different setting. Park Rangers will guide students through history at the visitor center with a program and provide the opportunity for students to explore exhibits and watch the park movie.Occupancy of the engine house is limited to 30 students at a time so large groups may be split up.

Self-Guided Big Fill Loop Trail: (Year-Round)

Students alongside their chaperones can walk along the historic railroad grade of the Central Pacific and Union Pacific. The Big Fill Loop trail showcases unique construction techniques used in the building of the transcontinental railroad. Information markers provide opportunities for students to identify areas of historical significance along the route. An education coordinator can provide stop information to teachers prior to their field trip.

Customized Field Trip Experiences: (Year-Round)

Work directly with a ranger to develop a program that meets your educational objectives. A variety of opportunities are available discuss with an education coordinator your school group's specific needs.

Visitor Center Amenities

Restrooms, water, and covered picnic tables are available at the Visitor Center.
The Western National Park Association bookstore and gift shop is open daily.