Promontory, Utah is the link between the east and west coast
By Brian Miller
There are a lot of cities to visit in the state of Utah but Promontory is a must-see but do not expect skyscrapers or even a town hall.
On May 10th, 1869, the Central Pacific railroad met the Union Pacific rail, and with a final “golden spike” the east coast and west coast of the United States were connected. The elimination of the need for wagon travel had ended. Promontory is where the two sides met.
The area is small and is located in Box Elder County. The closest town is Brigham City about 30 miles to the west and Salt Lake City, 66 miles to the northwest.
Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads meet in Promontory, Utah, and drive a ceremonial last spike into a rail line that connects their railroads. This made transcontinental railroad travel possible for the first time in U.S. history. No longer would western-bound travelers need to take the long and dangerous journey by wagon train.
The Transcontinental Railroad was at last completed. This leg would connect Sacramento in California to Omaha, Nebraska.
Today, this location is a National Monument. To the west of Promontory Summit lies the Golden Spike National Historic Park while to the east lies the Engine House Golden Spike National Park. Both are within eyeshot of each other.
A visit to Bryce Canyon. dark. Next
Each year on May 10th, a celebration of the final spike is held. In late December, a steam engine roars out of a unique yearly run, and visitors can watch it live at the site. Visitors can also explore the area by foot or by car and trace the original workmen’s line.