About Golden British Columbia

Golden, British Columbia – A Gateway to Adventure

Golden, BC, is a small yet vibrant mountain town nestled in the Canadian Rockies, known for its outdoor adventure, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Located along the Trans-Canada Highway, it serves as a gateway to six national parks and offers some of the best hiking, rafting, skiing, and wildlife experiences in Canada.

Location & Geography

Golden is located in the Columbia Valley in southeastern British Columbia at an elevation of 790 meters (2,592 feet) above sea level. It is bordered by the Rocky Mountains to the east and the Purcell Mountains to the west, with the Kicking Horse River flowing through town.

Nearby national parks

1. Yoho National Park
2. Glacier National Park
3. Banff National Park
4. Kootenay National Park
5. Mount Revelstoke National Park
6. Jasper National Park (a bit farther)

Golden Outdoor Activities & Attractions

Golden Skybridge: Canada's highest suspension bridges span 130 meters above a deep canyon, offering ziplining, a canyon swing, climbing, and a mountain coaster.

Kicking Horse River

This river is one of Canada's top whitewater rafting destinations, featuring Class III-IV rapids. Scenic viewpoints and hiking trails run along the river.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

Winter activities include world-class skiing and snowboarding, famous for deep powder and expert terrain.
Summer activities include gondola rides, mountain biking, and hiking with panoramic views.
The resort is home to the Grizzly Bear Refuge, where visitors can see "Boo," the resident grizzly bear.

Yoho National Park

1. Natural Bridge is a stunning rock formation shaped by the Kicking Horse River.
2. Takakkaw Falls is one of Canada's tallest waterfalls, standing at 373 meters (1,224 feet).
3. Emerald Lake offers breathtaking turquoise waters, perfect for canoeing and photography.

Columbia Wetlands

One of North America's largest wetlands, the area is ideal for wildlife viewing, kayaking, and photography. It is home to hundreds of bird species, including bald eagles and herons.

Golden's Historic Downtown

The town center features local shops, cafes, and art galleries. The Golden Museum offers insights into the town's railway and mountaineering history.

Camping & Accommodation

Golden offers a range of accommodation options:
Campgrounds in Yoho National Park, Golden Eco-Adventure Ranch, and municipal sites.
Lodges and hotels, ranging from luxury mountain resorts to cozy cabins.
Backcountry huts for hikers and mountaineers in the surrounding parks.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Summer (June – August) is warm and sunny, ideal for hiking, rafting, and mountain biking.
Fall (September – October) brings cooler temperatures, vibrant fall colors, and fewer crowds.
Winter (November – April) is snowy and cold, perfect for skiing and snow sports.
Spring (May – June) features peak waterfall and river flow, with mild temperatures.

How to Get There

By Car
From Calgary: Approximately 3 hours (260 km) via the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1).
From Banff: Approximately 1.5 hours (140 km).
From Revelstoke: Approximately 1.5 hours (150 km).

By Air
The nearest major airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC), about three hours away by car.

By Bus
There are seasonal shuttle services from Banff, Lake Louise, and Calgary.

Why Visit Golden, BC?

Golden is a hidden gem in the Rockies, offering breathtaking landscapes with mountains, rivers, and canyons. It is a prime location for adventure sports, including rafting, ziplining, skiing, and mountain biking. With access to six national parks, it is a paradise for nature lovers while maintaining a charming small-town atmosphere with rich history and culture. Book the Golden SkybridgePurchasing tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, is recommended.