A resounding “YES!” – Golden, BC is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you love outdoor adventures! It’s nestled between three mountain ranges. These include the Canadian Rockies, Purcells, and Selkirks. And thus, it offers stunning scenery and provides access to six epic national parks, for example: Yoho, Glacier, and Banff to name a few. Basically, Golden is a DREAM destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature-lovers alike! Offering a mix of stunning landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities and charming mountain town vibes – it has it ALL!
Since it is the perfect adventure base, you may be wondering: “well, what adventures are there?
In this post I’ll share my top adventure recommendations to help you plan for your next, unforgettable Canadian getaway to Golden, BC (among much more)!
ℙ𝕠𝕤𝕥 ℂ𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕤:
- Adventure One: Chasing Waterfalls and Emerald Lakes in Yoho National Park
- Takakkaw Falls
- Wapta Falls
- Emerald Lake
- Natural Bridge
- More must-hike trails
- Adventure Two: Discover thrills, wildlife and staggering beauty at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
- Skiing
- Wildlife
- Via Ferrata
- Canada’s highest restaurant
- Book your white water rafting adventure on the Kicking Horse River with GetYourGuide!
- Adventure Three: Hike the epic, wild and rugged terrain of Glacier National Park
- Hermit Trail
- Abbott Ridge Trail
- Great Glacier Trail
- Loop Brook Trail
- Bear Creek Falls Trail
- Adventure Four: Go on Adventures Aplenty at Golden Skybridge
- Skybridge Walk – Canada’s highest suspension bridges!
- Zipline
- Canyon Swing
- Ropes Course
- Mountain Coaster
- Adventure Five: Rip through adrenaline-inducing trails with Canadian Off-Road Adventures
- A must-book, exciting ATV tour for seeing sides to this mountain wilderness inaccessible otherwise!
- Adventure Six: Indulge in the Delights of the Charming Town of Golden, Itself
- List of must-eat restaurants and cafes
- Where to stay during your epic Golden, BC getaway
Author & Photographer: Mindy Michaels, mindyonthemove.com
Photographer: Doug Michaels
My name is Mindy and, as you can guess, I’m always on the move! I currently live in a truck camper as I travel the country full-time. I’ve been to all 50 states (more than once) and I have a slight obsession with remote wildernesses (such as Alaska)! While traveling, I seek out the most epic hikes, wildlife, scenic views, hidden gems and natural beauty I can find!
My primary job is a full-time content creator and professional photographer in the outdoor, adventure, travel space. In the past, I worked in the tv industry on various reality/doc tv shows for a multitude of networks. Both career paths, combined, have afforded me to live this nomadic lifestyle that I am so very passionate about and love with all my heart!
DISCLOSURE:
THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS AND I RECEIVE A COMMISSION IF YOU VISIT A LINK AND BUY SOMETHING ON MY RECOMMENDATION. PURCHASING VIA AN AFFILIATE LINK DOESN’T COST YOU ANY EXTRA, AND I ONLY RECOMMEND PRODUCTS AND SERVICES I TRUST. ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN. FOR MORE DETAILS SEE MY DISCLOSURE AND PRIVACY POLICY.
Is Golden, BC worth visiting? Adventure number one proving it IS…
Chase Massive Waterfalls and Emerald Lakes in Yoho National Park
Yoho National Park is a must-visit for jaw-dropping scenery, featuring towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and vibrant glacial lakes. It’s less crowded than its nearby neighbor, Banff National Park, offering a more peaceful, pristine experience while still showcasing iconic Canadian Rockies landscapes. The park is also home to some of the country’s most impressive natural wonders! Some can’t miss wonders here are…
Mighty Waterfalls:
- Takakkaw Falls – Canada’s second tallest waterfall! Plunging 373 meters (1,224 ft), it’s a truly magnificent sight to behold! In fact, the name “Takakkaw” is derived from the Cree word meaning “it is magnificent”! The falls are fed by Daly Glacer, part of the Waputik Icefield, and are at their most powerful during late spring and early summer due to glacial melt.
- Access: this waterfall is easily accessible by car from the Trans-Canada Highway via the Yoho Valley Road. However, note that this road is seasonal and usually open from June to October due to snow.
- Parking: There’s a designated parking lot just a short 10-15 minute walk from the base of the falls. The paved path is easy and suitable for all fitness levels.
- Wapta Falls – the largest waterfall on the Kicking Horse River. It spans 150 meters (492 ft) in width and drops 30 meters (98 ft). Even more, it’s known as the “Niagara of Yoho” and its powerful flow and surreal-looking surroundings make it a must-visit spot for those seeking a more wild, raw and dramatic waterfall experience! Unlike Takakkaw Falls, Wapta Falls is less crowded, offering a more peaceful atmosphere in a dense forest setting.
- Access: Wapta Falls is accessible from a trailhead just off the Trans-Canada Highway. The Trail to the falls is about 4.6km (2.9 miles) round-trip and takes roughly 1.5-2 hours to complete.
- Trail Difficulty: The hike is relatively easy, with a wide, mostly flat trail though the forest. However, the final approach involves a short but steep descent to the base of the falls.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall is ideal for visiting, though the trail is also accessible in the winter with snowshoes or cross-country skis for a more unique experience.
Dreamy Lakes and Epic Mountain Hikes:
- Emerald Lake – one of the most iconic and picturesque spots in Yoho National Park, known for its brilliant turquoise waters that get their vibrant color from fine glacial silt. Surrounded by the jagged peaks of the President Range, Emerald Lake offers a serene escape into nature, perfect for both leisurely activities and outdoor adventures! It’s a must-visit for its obvious beauty and the chance to experience the tranquil wilderness of the Canadian Rockies when hiking it’s 3.2 mile perimeter on the Emerald Lake Loop trail.
- Access: Emerald Lake is easily accessible by car, just a short drive from the Trans-Canada Highway. There is a parking lot near the lake with trails starting right from there.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to September) is ideal to see the lake in its full turquoise glory. In winter, the lake freezes and becomes a fantastic spot for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
- Activities: Visitors can rent canoes during the summer to paddle on the lake, hike the easy Emerald Lake Loop or simply enjoy the views from the lakeside lodge or cafe!
- Natural Bridge – a unique rock formation carved by the powerful flow of the Kicking Horse River! Over time, the river eroded the softer limestone beneath the harder rock, creating a natural archway that now spans the rushing water. It’s a fascinating and easily accessible geological wonder, offering insight into the forces of nature that shaped the Canadian Rockies.
- Access: It’s easily accessible by car en route to Emerald Lake and has available parking nearby. It’s a quick stop, with only a few steps required to reach the viewpoints.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer are the best times to visit when the Kicking Horse River is at its fullest, showcasing the most dramatic water flow. In winter, the bridge and surrounding river freeze over, creating a beautiful snow-globe scene.
For more bucket-list adventures and views that make Golden, BC worth visiting…
- Try these must-hike trails in Yoho (ranging in length and difficulty):
- Iceline Trail – Incredible views of glaciers and alpine meadows!
- Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit – A challenging but rewarding hike with sweeping alpine views, rugged terrain and distant waterfalls.
- Paget Peak Lookout – a steep climb to an old fire lookout tower with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Sherbrooke Lake Trail – A moderately easy trail leading to a serene alpine lake, perfect for a quieter, less crowded experience.
Is Golden, BC worth visiting? Adventure number two proving it IS…
Discover thrills, wildlife and staggering beauty at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in Golden, BC, is a premier destination for adventure enthusiasts, known for its steep, challenging terrain and world-class outdoor activities year-round! Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it offers not only thrilling ski slopes but also a variety of summer adventures, all set against a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery. The resort is famous for its impressive vertical drop, making it a must-visit for adrenaline junkies!
- Skiing: Renowned for some of North America’s most challenging and exhilarating skiing.
- Wildlife: Home to the world’s largest grizzly bear refuge where visitors can see and learn about the famous resident bear, Boo. Boo was rescued as a young cub after his momma was sadly poached alongside the roadway. He lives in the resort’s 20-acre wildlife refuge known as the “Grizzly Bear Interpretive Center” located on the resort slopes!
- Via Ferrata: a must-do adventure at Kicking Horse Resort! It’s a thrilling climbing adventure that combines rock climbing with secure, fixed steel cables, ladders, and bridges to help you ascend steep mountain faces. It’s perfect for both experienced climbers and beginners looking to taste the rush of scaling rugged rock formations with stellar views!
- You’ll traverse Terminator Ridge with its heart-pounding exposure and unbeatable views.
- Cross a high-altitude suspension bridge with sweeping views of the valley below.
- It’s a guided climb (perfect for all levels) with expert guides ensuring safety and FUN!
Bucket-list Dining Experience that makes Golden, BC worth visiting even more…
- Eagle’s Eye Restaurant: Located at the top of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, this is Canada’s highest elevated restaurant (sitting at 2,346 meters / 7,700 feet). It offers a truly unique dining experience with breathtaking 360-degree views! The mesmerizing backdrop, combined with gourmet cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination for food lovers and nature, adventure lovers alike!
- Enjoy gourmet meals featuring local ingredients and expertly crafted dishes in an unforgettable alpine setting!
- Arrive by gondola and experience the thrill of dining at the highest restaurant in Canada – making it a truly special occasion. Oh, and don’t skip dessert – so good!
Is Golden, BC worth visiting? Adventure number three proving it IS…
Hike the epic, wild and rugged terrain of Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, Canada (not far from Golden, BC) is so special for its rugged beauty featuring towering peaks, lush old-growth forests and hundreds of glaciers!! Woah! It’s a must-visit for adventurers seeking pristine wilderness and stunning alpine scenery. The park is also rich in history as its home to Rogers Pass, a key route for the Canadian Pacific Railway. Not to mention, it boasts diverse wildlife and incredible opportunities for hiking, backcountry skiing and mountaineering.
As it’s a hiker’s heaven, here are top 5 trails not to miss:
- Hermit Trail
- Length: 6 km (3.7 miles) round-trip
- Difficulty: Difficult
- This steep trail is a challenging climb, but hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of glaciers, rugged peaks, and alpine meadows. It’s a great choice for those looking for a workout and panoramic vistas. Not to mention, we witnessed several mountain goat at the top which was the best surprise!
- Abbott Ridge Trail
- Length: 13.6 km (8.5 miles) round-trip
- Difficulty: Difficult
- A tough ascent that rewards hikers with expansive views over the Selkirk Mountains and Illecillewaet Glacier. The trail offers some of the best panoramic views in the park, making it a must-do for avid hikers.
- Great Glacier Trail
- Length: 6.4 km (4 miles) round-trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- This trail is a relatively easy hike that leads to the base of the Illecillewaet Glacier, offering impressive views of the glacier and surrounding peaks. It’s ideal for those wanting to experience the grandeur of glaciers without a strenuous climb.
- Loop Brook Trail
- Length: 1.6 km (1 mile) round-trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- This gentle trail offers a walk through a beautiful forest and past remnants of historic railway trestles from the early days of the Canadian Pacific Railway. It’s perfect for a quick and easy hike with a bit of history.
- Bear Creek Falls Trail
- Length: 1 km (0.6 miles) round-trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- A short but scenic trail that leads to the stunning Bear Creek Falls. The trail is well-maintained and ideal for families or those looking for a peaceful walk to a beautiful waterfall in a lush forest setting.
Is Golden, BC worth visiting? Adventure number four proving it IS…
Go on Adventures Aplenty at Golden Skybridge
The Golden Skybridge in British Columbia, Canada is a must-visit for adventure lovers, offering two of Canada’s highest suspension bridges (spanning 130 meters / 426 feet) above a dramatic canyon. The views from the bridges are incredible, showcasing the surrounding Rocky and Purcell Mountains. It’s a thrilling experience with scenic beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike!
Adventures offered at Golden Skybridge:
- Skybridge Walk
- A stroll across the two suspension bridges gives you panoramic views in an exhilarating way! You’ll be sure to marvel at the all encompassing beauty with butterflies fluttering in your stomach!
- Zipline
- Soar 1,200 feet across the canyon on a zipline for an adrenaline-pumping flight high above it all! The zipline offers a thrilling ride with sweeping views of the mountains and forest below.
- Canyon Swing
- Experience a 100-foot freefall before swinging out over the canyon on this mind-blowing adventure! It’s perfect for thrill-seekers looking for that ultimate rush as they launch out over the canyon!
- Cliffside Challenge Course
- This multi-level ropes course offers climbing, balancing and swinging obstacles for participants of all ages and skill levels. It’s a fun and challenging way to test your agility and nerve while suspended in the forest.
- Railrider Mountain Coaster
- This rad ride lets you zip down the mountain at speeds of up to 40km/h (25mph) on a winding track that twists and turns through the forest. Riders have control over their speed, making it a blast for all ages as they zoom down at their preferred pace!
Is Golden, BC worth visiting? Adventure number five proving it IS…
Rip through adrenaline-inducing trails with Canadian Off-Road Adventures
Canadian Off-Road Adventures is an adventure tour company based in Golden, BC, specializing in exciting guided ATV and UTV (side-by-side) tours through the gorgeous backcountry of the Canadian Rockies. Their tours take you deep into the wilderness, offering access to rugged trails, alpine meadows and incredible mountain viewpoints that are typically inaccessible by standard vehicles. It’s a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the region in a fast-paced, enthralling and unique way!
Why book a tour with them?
- Expert Guides: Their experienced guides ensure both safety and adventurous fun, sharing local knowledge and taking you to hidden gems in the wilderness.
- Scenic Adventure: The tours offer breathtaking mountain views, remote trails and wildlife spotting opportunities, immersing you in the heavenly beauty of this wilderness.
- Customizable Experiences: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, they have tours that cater to all skill levels, offering a chance to go at your own pace while enjoying the thrill of off-roading.
Booking with Canadian Off-Road Adventures ensures an unforgettable, adrenaline-packed day exploring some of the best scenery BC has to offer!
Is Golden, BC worth visiting? Adventure number six proving it IS…
Indulge in the Delights of the Charming Town of Golden, itself
The town of Golden, BC is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, known for its authentic, small-town charm and its prime location surrounded by surreal natural beauty (i.e. the photos above are taken from the town)!
What makes this town so special is its blend of rugged outdoor adventure and relaxed mountain-town vibe. It boasts a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere with cozy cafes, local breweries and a strong sense of community. Golden also has a rich history, tied to both the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Swiss mountain guides who helped shape the region’s mountaineering legacy. Visitors can enjoy not only outdoor experiences but local attractions such as the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge (the longest of its kind in Canada) and a vibrant arts and foodie scene!
Golden remains less commercialized than nearby hotspots like Banff, allowing visitors to have a more unique, local and intimate experience to this mountain community and its natural wonders.
Must-Eat Restaurants in town:
- Reposados Tacos Y Tequila – a vibrant Mexican eatery known for its delicious and authentic tacos, fresh ingredients and a wide variety of tequilas. The atmosphere is casual and fun, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike!
- Whitetooth Mountain Bistro – a popular spot offering a diverse menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative Canadian cuisine. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere and spectacular views.
- The Island Restaurant – located on an island in the Kicking Horse River, this restaurant serves international fushion cuisine with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients. It’s perfect for a scenic dining experience with outdoor seating.
- Eleven22 Restaurant – A cozy, upscale restaurant housed in a converted heritage home, offering globally inspiring dishes with a local twist. Known for its intimate setting and friendly service.
- Red Tomato Pies – A must-visit for pizza lovers! They offer delicious handcrafted pizzas with a variety of fresh toppings. It’s a go-to spot for a casual tasty meal in Golden.
- The Wolf’s Den – a rustic pub serving hearty Canadian comfort food, burgers and craft beers. Known for its laid-back vibe and generous portions, it’s a great place to unwind after a day of adventure.
My two favorite cafes in town:
- Ethos Cafe – a cozy, locally owned spot in Golden known for its high-quality coffee and warm, welcoming yet modern atmosphere. They serve a range of espresso drinks, light and very creative + delicious breakfasts, and baked goods. It’s the perfect stop for a relaxing morning OR a grab-and-go on route to an adventure!
- Wandering Fern Cafe – offers a unique experience with its cozy, brick-and-mortar location in downtown Golden, serving fair-trade coffee from ethically sourced beans. On top of that, it offers freshly baked goods and a farm-to-table menu, emphasizing on sustainability and quality.
Where to stay in Golden, BC?
- There are many options for accommodations, ranging from hotels to cottages; from lodges to bed & breakfast! See more here.
- However, personally, we stayed in our pickup camper at the town’s very own campground: Golden Municipal Campground. It’s a well-equipped and scenic campground located along the banks of the Kicking Horse River in Golden and offers a prime spot for visitors looking to enjoy both nature and the town’s delights. With almost 80 campsites, it provides options for RVs, tents and partial service sites – ALL within walking distance of downtown! Furthermore, the campground has a plethora of amenities, including: clean washrooms, free hot showers, a convenience store, laundry facilities, picnic shelters and fire pits at each site. It’s also pet-friendly.
This wraps up my adventure-filled, getaway guide to Golden, BC – which is clearly worth visiting (tenfold)! I truly had the trip of a lifetime here and I hope that this guide helps you in planning your future travels.
As always, feel free to leave a comment and/or ask me any and all questions you may have! I’m happy to help!
Much love and happy adventuring,
Mindy (on the move)
