Temporary Park Operations
Golden Spike National Historical Park - Modified Operations to Adhere to Local Health Guidance
Golden Spike National Historical Park is focused on ensuring employees, their families, volunteers, and visitors are safe by following the most current guidance from the
Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Office of Personnel Management (OPM), and other federal, state, and local health authorities.
The following precautions are being taken due to the novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19)
- Visitor Center and park bookstore are temporarily closed. Park maps and information are available outside.
- Public Restrooms are open from 8AM to 5PM. The restrooms will be closed from 5PM to 8AM in accordance with CDC guidance on cleaning.
- Locomotive Operations are temporarily delayed until further notice.
- Engine House is closed to the public and Engine House Tours are canceled.
- The park landscapes as well as outdoor features remain accessible:
- East Auto Tour
- Big Fill Loop Trail
- The Last Spike Site
- Park Staff will be available out in the park to answer questions and provide information. Staff will also be available by phone at 435-471-2209.. Park maps and information are available outside.
- Visitors can be assured that the park continues to monitor conditions and maintain high standards related to the health and wellness of staff and visitors. Staff are working to maintain clean and healthy facilities in accordance with CDC guidance.
- "Utah Health Guidance System" - While out door spaces remain open, Golden Spike National Historical Park has limited services available, as implementation planning for visitor safety and public health are underway for the coming season. Visitors are encouraged to join us in complying with Utah's Yellow Moderate Risk Phase and practice physical distancing, avoid concentrated recreational use, and unnecessary travel to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19.
- Golden Spike National Historical Park is working with Bear River Health District to support the safety and health of our communites and visitors.
National Park Service Public Health Service Officers Recommend that Everyone Should Take the Following Routine Precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use >60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, or do so into your elbow. Dispose of the tissue and wash your hands again.
- Keep 6 feet (1.8 m) of separation between yourself and others to reduce the potential spread of infection.
- Use virtual tools instead of holding in-person meetings and avoid large gatherings.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Most important, if you experience flu symptoms or any serious infection or virus, please stay home to avoid exposing others.
Weather
Depending on the season, the weather can be unpredictable in the Promontory mountains. Please check the forecast before your travel to the park. Always pack sunscreen, water, and layers of clothing if you plan on being outdoors. Promontory Summit Weather
Golden Spike National Historical Park is located in a high desert environment on the north end of the Great Salt Lake. The lake and channeling of winds through the valley, where the site is located, can cause very unique weather conditions. The temperatures can reach over 100 degrees in the summer and into single digits in the winter. Winds can cause severe cold in the winter. Visitors are recommended to check forecasts before coming to our site and come prepared for changing weather conditions.