The tiny town of Golden lies on the eastern edge of British Columbia and is a great destination for anyone who enjoys mountain pursuits. Golden is the closest town to the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, a popular ski and snow sports destination in winter months. But there is much more to this part of the Canadian Rockies than the white stuff – Golden is on the banks of the Columbia River and there are no fewer than five National Parks within a short drive of the town centre. The spectacular skyline of the Rocky mountains surrounds Golden and the sparkling scenery leaves no visitor in any doubt that the name is a perfect way to describe this golden country.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Golden
Golden — The town exists because of the Canadian Pacific Railway and the country’s influential logging industry – the main employer in the town has traditionally been the Louisiana-Pacific plywood plant, and the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge – the longest freestanding timber frame bridge in Canada – is testament to the timber industry’s involvement. Nowadays tourism is just as much of a draw for the 4,000 residents of Golden.
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort — The winter months are the busiest for Kicking Horse, and there are more than 2,800 acres of skiable terrain. The ski season runs from mid-December until mid-April, while during the summer the slopes are given over to mountain bikers between June and October.
Glacier National Park — This National Park covers a relatively modest 520 square miles but the opportunities for mountain-lovers are considerable. Check out the network of trails above ground or get underground to explore one of Canada’s most extensive natural cave systems.
Yoho National Park — A little to the east of Golden is Yoho, the Cree word for ‘awe’ and visitors are in no doubt as to why the First Nation peoples used that word. This 507 square mile National Park features spectacular waterfalls, and a natural bridge over the Kicking Horse river.
Things to See in Golden
Around Golden, the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge is the main sight and it’s an impressive feat of engineering, sitting low on the banks across the Kicking Horse river, close to its confluence with Columbia river. It’s possible to walk near both rivers and hike up to the peaks – Moonraker Mountain, Hedburg peak and Kapristo Mountain are the closest. Cedar Lake is perfect for a summer swim, while there is also the chance to meet Boo, a playful bear who you can meet at the Grizzly Bear Interpretative Centre.
Things to Do in Golden
The Rotary Trails are the best way to access the glorious landscape and they form a spider’s web across the Canadian Rockies. For a leisurely trip up the mountainside, take a gondola at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. In winter time, the snow is usually excellent and you can ski, snowboard, try some telemarking or take a snowmobile tour – the locals are proud of their ‘champagne’ powder. During summer, hike the Dogtooth Ridge, go on a walk with wolves or play high altitude golf. Whatever the season, Golden is a jewel in the Rockies.
