✓ Accommodations ✓ Flights ✓ Rental Cars
Nestled between the majestic Canadian Rockies and the Columbia Mountains, Golden, British Columbia offers an unforgettable mountain experience. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and plethora of outdoor activities, this quiet town is becoming a favorite among travelers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Unlike the crowded tourist hotspots, Golden provides an authentic mountain town experience with equally breathtaking landscapes but fewer crowds. You can enjoy world-class skiing and mountain biking in the winter and summer, respectively, or explore the serene natural wonders and hiking trails that surround the town.
Whether you’re planning a dedicated trip or including Golden as part of a larger Canadian Rockies road trip, you’ll find that this charming town has something for every type of traveler. Get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and adventure that Golden has to offer.
Discovering Golden: Your Gateway to Canadian Adventure
Golden, British Columbia, is your gateway to the heart of Canadian adventure, where mountains meet rivers. Strategically located between the Canadian Rockies and the Columbia Mountains, Golden offers an ideal blend of accessibility and natural beauty.
Where is Golden Located?
Golden is situated at the confluence of the Kicking Horse River and Columbia River, creating a picturesque setting surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes. It is close to six national parks, including Glacier National Park, Mount Revelstoke National Park, Yoho National Park, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Kootenay National Park. Golden is accessible via the Trans-Canada Highway, approximately a 3-hour drive from Calgary and 1.5 hours from Banff.
Best Time to Visit Golden
The best time to visit Golden depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June-September) offers hiking, mountain biking, and water sports, while winter (December-March) provides world-class skiing and snowboarding. Spring and fall shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and unique experiences like wildlife viewing and spectacular foliage. Golden experiences distinct seasonal changes, with warm summers averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F) and cold, snowy winters averaging -10 to -5°C (14-23°F), perfect for winter sports.
Whether you’re planning a road trip through the Canadian Rockies or looking for a base to explore the surrounding national parks, Golden is an ideal destination. With its unique location and varied climate, Golden offers something for every kind of traveler, making it a must-visit destination in British Columbia.
Golden, British Columbia: Best Things to Do – Top Picks
Golden, British Columbia, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering a wide range of activities that cater to all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or looking for a relaxing getaway, Golden has something for everyone.
Outdoor Adventures
Golden is renowned for its world-class outdoor adventures, particularly in mountain biking and skiing at Kicking Horse Resort. With over 185 km of trails, mountain biking enthusiasts can enjoy everything from beginner-friendly paths to challenging downhill routes. For those seeking more adrenaline-pumping activities, whitewater rafting on Kicking Horse River offers an exhilarating experience.
Explore the Canadian Rockies on a guided hike or venture out on your own to discover the region’s natural beauty. The area surrounding Golden offers numerous trails for hikers of all skill levels, providing breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Family-Friendly Activities
Golden is not just for adventure-seekers; it’s also a great destination for families. The Golden Skybridge is a must-visit attraction, featuring two suspension bridges, including Canada’s highest suspension bridge, a treetop village play park, and canyon ridge walking trails. For a more relaxed experience, families can enjoy gentle rafting adventures with a BBQ lunch in Yoho National Park.
Visitors can also explore the area’s natural wonders, such as emerald lakes and thundering waterfalls, making Golden an ideal base for day trips to nearby national parks.
Explore the Golden Skybridge
Experience the thrill of Canada’s highest suspension bridges at the Golden Skybridge. Located just outside of Golden, British Columbia, this adventure center is a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.
Canada’s Highest Suspension Bridges
The Golden Skybridge features two spectacular suspension bridges that soar 130 meters (426 feet) above the canyon floor, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Rocky and Purcell Mountains. As you walk across, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the rushing river below and cascading waterfalls. The bridges are an exhilarating experience, making you feel like you’re on top of the world.
Canyon Swing & Mountain Coaster
For those seeking even more adventure, the Golden Skybridge offers the Canyon Swing, a heart-pumping experience that sends you free-falling over the canyon edge in a giant swing. Additionally, the Rail Rider Mountain Coaster provides an adrenaline rush as you control your own speed while racing down the mountainside on a single-track coaster with spectacular views.
The Golden Skybridge is more than just its suspension bridges; it’s a full-day destination with a variety of activities for all ages. Enjoy the treetop village play park, perfect for families with young children, or challenge yourself with the outdoor climbing wall, canyon zipline, or treetop ropes course. You can even try axe-throwing for a unique experience.
Whether you’re visiting Golden for a day or staying for a while, the Golden Skybridge is an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and family-friendly fun. Be sure to plan your visit and enjoy the thrilling attractions it has to offer.
Meet Boo the Grizzly Bear at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
At Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, you’ll have the chance to meet Boo, a majestic grizzly bear living in the largest single bear refuge in the world. The Grizzly Bear Refuge is a 20-acre area where Boo roams freely, engaging in natural behaviors like foraging, hunting, and playing. This unique wildlife experience is a must-visit when in Golden, British Columbia.
The Grizzly Bear Refuge Experience
The refuge at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort provides a safe haven for Boo, who was rescued as a cub after his mother was killed. Now, he thrives in his natural habitat, and visitors can observe him throughout the day. The refuge is not just a home for Boo; it’s also a site for valuable research and conservation efforts on grizzly bears.
Free interpretive tours are available at scheduled times, offering insights into grizzly bear behavior, biology, and conservation. For a more exclusive experience, the Ranger Assist Program (RAP) allows visitors to get a behind-the-scenes look at Boo’s care.
Best Times to See Boo
The best times to visit Boo vary by season. During the summer, Boo is most active in the morning hours. In contrast, he tends to nap during the hot summer afternoons. In the winter, visitors can ski or snowboard past his hibernation den, a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Planning your visit to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort around these times will ensure you get the best experience. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a wildlife enthusiast, Boo’s story is sure to captivate.
Adventure on the Via Ferrata
The via ferrata at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is a must-try for adventure seekers. Known as the “Iron Road,” this climbing route is equipped with harnesses, steel cables, iron rungs, pegs, ladders, and bridges, ensuring a safe ascent up the mountain.
Climbing Routes for All Skill Levels
Kicking Horse offers three different via ferrata routes catering to various skill levels. The “Discovery” route is perfect for beginners, while the challenging “Ascension” route is considered one of North America’s most difficult via ferratas, standing at 465 meters.
The experience begins with a scenic gondola ride to the mountain summit, where climbers are equipped with harnesses and helmets, and given safety instructions before embarking on their guided adventure.
What to Expect on Your Climb
As you climb, you’ll be accompanied by professional guides who provide instruction, encouragement, and fascinating information about the mountain ecosystem and geology. The via ferrata combines the thrill of rock climbing with the security of a protected route system, making it an exhilarating experience for all.
Safety first is the priority, with all climbers secured to a safety system throughout the adventure. This unique experience allows you to scale a mountain face with spectacular views without needing prior climbing experience or technical skills.
Whitewater Rafting on Kicking Horse River
The Kicking Horse River offers some of the most exciting whitewater rafting in North America, making Golden, BC, a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers. With its Class II to IV rapids, this river is a premier location for rafting enthusiasts of all experience levels.
Rafting Options for Different Experience Levels
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly float or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, the Kicking Horse River has something for everyone. Options range from easy family rafting with a BBQ lunch in Yoho National Park to intermediate whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River itself. For the truly adventurous, a full-day heli-rafting experience is available, offering a unique combination of helicopter access and rafting through Class IV rapids.
The variety of rafting options ensures that visitors can choose an experience that suits their comfort and skill level. From gentle floats to challenging rapids, the Kicking Horse River is a versatile destination that caters to all.
Best Rafting Companies in Golden
Several professional rafting companies operate in Golden, offering guided tours on the Kicking Horse River. Companies like Glacier Raft Company and Alpine Rafting provide half-day and full-day tours, equipped with experienced guides and quality equipment. These tours often include extras such as riverside meals, enhancing the overall experience.
When planning your whitewater rafting adventure, consider booking with one of these reputable companies to ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the river. With tours starting at $100 per person, it’s an accessible adventure for many.
Hiking Trails Around Golden
Surrounded by national parks, Golden offers a diverse range of hiking trails for all levels of adventurers. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely day hike or a multi-day backpacking adventure, Golden has something for everyone.
Day Hikes Near Town
For visitors looking to explore the area without venturing too far from town, Golden’s Rotary Trails network is an excellent starting point. These scenic paths wind around downtown Golden and along the Kicking Horse River, providing a great introduction to the region’s natural beauty.
For a more challenging day hike, consider the Terminator Ridge Trail at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Accessible only by gondola, this 3km trail offers panoramic views of six surrounding mountain ranges, making it a must-do for any serious hiker visiting Golden.
Another popular day hike is the Thompson Falls Trail, located 25km north of Golden. This 12km round-trip hike follows the Blaeberry River to a stunning waterfall named after explorer David Thompson. It’s an ideal day trip for those looking to experience the rugged beauty of the Canadian wilderness.
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Rotary Trails | Varies | Easy |
| Terminator Ridge Trail | 3km | Moderate |
| Thompson Falls Trail | 12km round trip | Moderate to Challenging |
Multi-Day Hiking Adventures
For experienced hikers, Golden serves as a gateway to some of the most spectacular multi-day hiking adventures in the Canadian Rockies. Trails in nearby Yoho National Park offer breathtaking glacier views and access to alpine huts and backcountry campgrounds.
The Iceline Trail in Yoho National Park is a highlight, offering stunning views of glaciers and surrounding peaks. Another option is the trail to Wapta Falls, the largest waterfall on the Kicking Horse River, which provides a challenging yet rewarding hike for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day adventure, Golden’s proximity to national parks and its extensive trail network make it an ideal base for your hiking excursions.
Mountain Biking Paradise
Get ready to ride through some of the most beautiful terrain in North America, as Golden boasts an impressive mountain biking scene. With over 185 kilometers of diverse trails, Golden has established itself as a world-class mountain biking destination.
Mount7 Trails
Mount7 is the crown jewel of Golden’s mountain biking scene, offering everything from flowing cross-country trails to challenging downhill routes. Riders can start at the Reflection Lake parking area and either bike up the 14km access road or use shuttle services to reach the trailhead before enjoying the thrilling descent on trails that range from intermediate blue routes to expert black diamond runs.
Kicking Horse Mountain Bike Park
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort complements the natural trails with its professionally designed bike park, featuring over 50 kilometers of maintained trails accessed via gondola, eliminating the uphill effort. The resort’s bike park offers progression-friendly features including berms, jumps, wooden features, and technical sections that allow riders to develop their skills in a controlled environment.
Both Mount7 and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort offer bike rentals, lessons, and guided tours for visitors who don’t bring their own equipment or want to improve their skills with professional instruction. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Golden’s mountain biking scene has something for everyone.
Water Activities on Lakes and Rivers
In Golden, you can enjoy a range of water activities, from paddleboarding to fishing, on its beautiful lakes and rivers. The area’s unique geography, with the confluence of the Kicking Horse and Columbia Rivers, makes it a paradise for water enthusiasts.
Paddleboarding and Kayaking Spots
Golden offers several places to enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking. You can rent an inflatable paddleboard and explore the mountains from a different perspective at Cedar Lake near Golden or Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park. For a more adventurous experience, consider kayaking on the gentler sections of the Blaeberry River or exploring the Columbia River through the spectacular Columbia Wetlands.
- Cedar Lake and Emerald Lake offer calm waters perfect for paddleboarding.
- The Blaeberry River is suitable for kayaking, with gentler sections for beginners.
- The Columbia River provides opportunities for canoeing and kayaking through the Columbia Wetlands.
Fishing Opportunities
Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities in Golden’s rivers and lakes. The Columbia River is renowned for its fish populations, including Rainbow Trout, Walleye, and Whitefish. You can set up your fishing spot along the riverbanks or explore the numerous lakes in the area.
| Location | Fish Species |
|---|---|
| Columbia River | Rainbow Trout, Walleye, Whitefish |
| Cedar Lake | Trout species |
| Emerald Lake | Trout species |
Wildlife Encounters in Golden
Golden, British Columbia, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering unique encounters with native Canadian species. You can explore the region’s rich biodiversity through various educational and ethical wildlife experiences.
Northern Lights Wolf Centre
The Northern Lights Wolf Centre, located 18 km north of Golden, provides an unforgettable experience. Here, you can observe nine resident wolves in a natural setting. The centre offers a 25-minute educational tour, giving you insights into wolf conservation and the importance of these magnificent creatures in the ecosystem.
For a deeper experience, you can book a private wolf walk in the Blaeberry Valley, where a wolf will be your guide.
Buffalo Ranch Experience
At the Rocky Mountain Buffalo Ranch, you can witness buffalo grazing from a safe distance. The ranch offers educational tours daily from May to September, including a demonstration of native fire-making techniques. You’ll learn about the historical significance and conservation of these iconic animals.
The ranch is set in a picturesque location by the Blaeberry River, offering a serene atmosphere and rustic accommodations. The owner, Leo, shares fascinating stories about his unique relationship with the buffalo herd, making the experience even more memorable.
These wildlife encounters complement other experiences in Golden, such as observing Boo the grizzly bear at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, creating a well-rounded understanding of the region’s iconic wildlife.
Day Trips to Nearby National Parks
With six national parks within reach, Golden is the perfect base for your next adventure. You can explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of these protected areas, making the most of your time in the Canadian Rockies.
Yoho National Park Highlights
Yoho National Park, just 30 minutes from Golden, is a must-visit destination. Emerald Lake is a highlight, offering breathtaking views of the teal-colored lake surrounded by towering peaks. You can enjoy canoeing, hiking, or simply taking in the scenery.
Other attractions in Yoho include Takakkaw Falls, Canada’s second-highest waterfall, and Natural Bridge, a fascinating rock formation carved by the Kicking Horse River. You can also hike to Wapta Falls, a stunning waterfall on the Kicking Horse River.
Glacier National Park Adventures
For a more remote wilderness experience, head to Glacier National Park, located west of Golden. This park offers excellent hiking options, including the Great Glacier Trail, Asulkan Valley Trail, and the challenging Abbott Ridge Trail. With fewer crowds than other national parks, Glacier National Park is an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and adventure.
Whether you’re exploring Yoho or Glacier National Park, you’ll experience the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Take a day trip from Golden and discover the wonders of these incredible national parks.
Dining and Drinking in Golden
As you explore the charming town of Golden, British Columbia, you’ll discover a diverse dining scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a unique mountain-top dining experience or a casual meal at a local eatery, Golden has something for everyone.
Best Restaurants in Town
Golden is home to several exceptional restaurants that are sure to impress. One standout is the Eagle’s Eye Restaurant at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Canada’s highest restaurant at 7,700 feet. It offers panoramic views and exquisite cuisine, making it a must-visit. You can enjoy a meal here in both summer and winter, with the added option of renting the Eagle’s Eye Suite for a unique experience during the winter months.
For a more casual dining experience, Red Tomato Pies is a local favorite, known for its delicious thin-crust pizzas. Be sure to order ahead, as many downtown eateries, including Red Tomato Pies, operate on “mountain time,” opening later in the afternoon.
Local Breweries and Cafes
No visit to Golden is complete without experiencing its vibrant craft beer scene. Whitetooth Brewing Company is a standout, offering Belgian-inspired and West Coast-influenced beers in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of adventure.
Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate local cafes like Bluebird Cafe and Purcell Coffee, which serve excellent beverages to fuel your adventures or help you relax afterward. During the summer, many restaurants offer outdoor patios along the Kicking Horse River, providing a picturesque setting to enjoy your meal.
Where to Stay in Golden
Golden offers a diverse range of places to stay, from luxurious mountain lodges to cozy downtown hotels. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Golden has the perfect place for you to stay.
Downtown Accommodations
If you’re looking to stay in the heart of Golden, downtown accommodations like the newly opened Rooms at Riveredge offer modern suites with river views. You’ll be steps away from restaurants, brewpubs, and shopping. Other options include name-brand hotels like The Best Western Mountainview Inn and The Prestige Inn, which offer amenities such as pools and hot tubs.
The Best Western also provides a complimentary breakfast, making it a great choice for families and travelers alike.
Mountain Lodges and Resorts
For those seeking a more authentic mountain experience, Golden has several charming lodges. Moberly Lodge, located about 10 minutes east of town, offers self-contained log cabins and cozy rooms with a delicious breakfast included.
If your plans are centered around Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, consider staying at The Vagabond Lodge. This cozy chalet and bed and breakfast is known for its wonderful hospitality and is primarily an adults-only property.
Conclusion: Why Golden Should Be Your Next Adventure Destination
If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and authentic mountain charm, Golden, British Columbia, should be at the top of your list. This charming town in the heart of the Canadian Rockies offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities, rich history, and genuine mountain town character.
Golden’s unique history as a Canadian Pacific Railway town and its association with Swiss guides have shaped it into an adventure hub. The town’s commitment to outdoor recreation is evident in its world-class infrastructure for mountain biking, skiing, hiking, and water sports, all supported by knowledgeable local guides and outfitters.
One of the standout attractions is the Golden Skybridge, offering breathtaking views, and the historic timber-framed pedestrian bridge, a charming spot to enjoy the town’s scenery. With its strategic location surrounded by six national parks, Golden is an ideal base for exploring diverse landscapes, from glacier-capped peaks to ancient forests and turquoise lakes.
Whether you’re looking for a day of whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River or a leisurely stroll through the town, Golden has something for everyone. Its authentic character, combined with exceptional value for accommodations, dining, and activities, makes it an ideal destination for your next Canadian Rockies vacation.
In conclusion, Golden, British Columbia, is a treasure trove of adventure and natural beauty, waiting to be explored. So why not plan your visit and experience it for yourself? You won’t be disappointed.
—
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
