Promontory, Utah: Golden Spike Site

Promontory, Utah is an unincorporated community in Box Elder County, ~40 miles NW of Salt Lake City.

Historic Significance

• Site of the Golden Spike Ceremony (May 10, 1869) completing the First Transcontinental Railroad.
• Promontory Summit (8,236 ft) – highest point on the line, marked by 1903 granite monument honoring workers who died.

Profile

• Population: 497 (2010)
• High desert climate: hot summers, cold winters, ~10" annual precipitation.
• Economy: agriculture, tourism, transportation (railyard, truck stop).

A pilgrimage site for railroad history enthusiasts.