Plan A Field Trip

Kids Day

NPS photo

Golden Spike National Historical Park offers a variety of Teacher-led field trip programs for students of all ages. Through the story of the Transcontinental Railroad, students explore the people, cultures, and communities whose efforts helped connect the nation. Visitors can stand where the Last Spike was driven, walk along the historic railroad grade, and discover the stories that shaped this significant moment in American history.

Educational programs are aligned with Common Core and Utah Learning Standards and are designed to support classroom learning through engaging, hands-on experiences. Park staff work closely with educators to create meaningful opportunities that encourage exploration, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of history, culture, and innovation.

 

School Group & Field Trip Information

Before You Go

• All programs require pre-registration

• Ranger-led programs are available year-round

• Programs must be scheduled at least 30 days in advance

• Availability is limited and not guaranteed

• Field trip offerings vary by season and staffing availability

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Reservation Guidelines

Required

All school groups must complete a Field Trip Reservation Form before visiting the park.

Reservation Dates

2026–2027 school group reservations open July 28, 2026

Important Restrictions

The park cannot accept school groups:

• May 5–12, 2027

Educational fee waivers are not available:

• Holidays

• Weekends

• Special event days

October–April (winter season)

• School groups are not accepted Tuesdays or Wednesdays

• Due to the winter season, visitor center hours

• Group sizes may be limited seasonally due to staffing

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Request a Program

Complete the Educational Reservation Request Form to request a field trip.

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Park Programs

(May–September)

Students can:

• Watch live steam locomotive demonstrations

• Participate in Teacher/Ranger-led history program of the May 10, 1869 ceremony

• Explore museum exhibits

• Watch the park film

• Learn from park staff about the history of the transcontinental railroad
  

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Winter Engine House Tour & Ranger Program

(October–April)

During winter maintenance season, students can:

• Visit the Engine House to see Jupiter and No. 119 up close

• Participate in a Teacher/Ranger-led history program

• Explore exhibits and watch the park film
  

Note: Engine House occupancy is limited to 30 students at a time. Large groups may be divided into smaller groups.

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Self-Guided Big Fill Loop Trail

(Year-Round)

Students and chaperones can:

• Walk along the historic railroad grade

• Learn about transcontinental railroad construction

• Use interpretive signs to explore important historic locations

Teachers may request trail stop information from the education coordinator before their visit.

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Customized Field Trip Experiences

(Year-Round)

Teachers may work directly with park staff to create programs that support specific educational goals and classroom needs.

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Visitor Center Amenities

Available at the Visitor Center:

• Restrooms

• Drinking water

• Covered picnic tables

The Western National Parks bookstore and gift shop are open daily