Revelstoke vs. Golden: Which Mountain Town is Right for Your Summer Getaway?

Revelstoke and Golden are two of British Columbia’s best summer destinations—each packed with hiking, biking, local events, and adrenaline-filled activities. Whether you’re chasing flow trails, mountain views, or small-town charm, this guide will help you figure out which mountain town fits your summer plans best.

Summer Events

If live music, art, and downtown buzz are your thing, Revelstoke delivers. From June 28 through August, the streets light up nightly with REVY.Live Outside, a free outdoor concert series. In September, LUNA Fest transforms the downtown core into a glowing celebration of interactive exhibits and sound. Every Saturday, the Revelstoke Farmers’ Market offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and local fare.

Golden, on the other hand, offers a slower rhythm with meaningful community experiences. Summer Kicks, a free live music series, runs every Wednesday through the season, and the Golden Skybridge Concert Series combines big mountain views with intimate performances. The Golden Farmers’ Market, also held Wednesdays, adds a fresh and local midweek break.

Revelstoke feels like a summer-long festival. Golden feels like a well-kept secret shared among friends.

Adventure Activities: Water, Air, and Everything Between

In Revelstoke, you can race down the Pipe Mountain Coaster or navigate aerial elements in the Aerial Adventure Course. Prefer to stay grounded? Try whitewater rafting or jet boating—both are fast, fun, and uniquely Revelstoke.

Golden brings a different type of thrill. At the Golden Skybridge Adventure Park, you’ll find rope courses, zip lines, a mountain coaster, and Canada’s highest suspension bridges. You can also explore Kicking Horse’s Via Ferrata, meet Boo the Bear at the Grizzly Bear Refuge, or go horseback riding in the Blaeberry Valley with Bear Corner.

If you want to fly, float, or fall with speed—Revelstoke wins. If you want to walk above it all and connect with nature in new ways—Golden takes the prize.

Mountain Biking: Trail Style Matters

Revelstoke mountain biking is known for its incredible dirt, forest flow, and technical downhill lines. Start mellow on the Beaver Trails at Macpherson, progress to Flowdown or Loggin’ Leftovers, and finish strong on expert trails like Gravy Bacon. The Revelstoke Bike Park offers lift-served terrain with everything from green to double black.

Golden’s mountain biking has a more backcountry feel. The Mount 7 trail network is legendary. Ride Woodlot Ridge for an approachable intro, Snake Hill for intermediate flow, or challenge yourself on Moonshine, a raw, technical descent. The Kicking Horse Bike Park offers downhill access, though it’s more compact than Revy’s.

If you’re into smoother progression and a bigger variety of lift-accessed terrain, Revelstoke is your spot. If you want raw, fast, and fiercely fun trails, Golden won’t disappoint.

The Hikes That Define These Mountain Towns

Revelstoke is a waterfall-lover’s dream. You’ll find quick, rewarding trails like Begbie Falls, Sutherland Falls, and Bear Creek Falls, plus alpine access via the Greely Bowl Trails on the mountain. For something steeper, the Hermit Trail offers a serious challenge with a major summit payoff.

Golden hiking is all about sweeping ridgelines and wide-open wilderness. Start with Wapta Falls, one of the region’s most dramatic waterfalls, then explore the forested views of Canyon Creek or the lesser-traveled Frenchman’s Ridge for panoramic alpine views.

Revelstoke hiking is all about variety and quick access to natural wonders. Golden’s trails invite longer days, bigger views, and fewer people.

Where to Stay

No matter which town you choose, Basecamp Resorts has you covered with accommodations built for adventure-filled days and restful nights.

In Revelstoke, take your pick from three unique stays:

• Northwinds Hotel Revelstoke: A newly renovated, budget-friendly option just off Highway 1—perfect for quick access to national parks and summer road trip routes.
• Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke: Located on the banks of the Columbia River, this property offers spacious suites with full kitchens, BBQs, and hot tubs—ideal for groups or longer stays.
• Basecamp Suites Revelstoke: For a more urban feel, stay downtown in sleek, modern comfort with easy access to restaurants, shops, and local events.

In Golden, stay close to it all at Basecamp Lodge Golden. Nestled beside the Kicking Horse River, this cozy lodge-style hotel offers traditional rooms and a laid-back atmosphere—ideal for exploring Yoho National Park, Rogers Pass, or nearby hiking and biking trails.

So, Which Mountain Town Is Right for You?

Choose Revelstoke if you’re looking for lively events, waterfall hikes, epic mountain biking, and high-adrenaline adventures.

Choose Golden if you’re chasing peaceful trails, jaw-dropping ridgelines, hands-on adventure parks, and small-town mountain charm.

Still can’t decide? Drive both. Golden and Revelstoke are just two hours apart—perfect for a summer road trip you’ll never forget.

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