Why You Need to Make a Trip To Golden, B.C. This Summer

Written by
Staff Writer
May 29, 2023
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First Published on

Looking for an epic summer getaway that'll have you buzzing with excitement? Look no further than Golden, BC! This hidden gem is the ultimate playground for adventure seekers. Get ready to unleash your inner thrill-seeker with exhilarating mountain biking trails, cozy up in charming log cabins, be enchanted by the turquoise beauty of Emerald Lake, conquer the mind-blowing Golden Skybridge, and capture Instagram-worthy vistas at every turn.

In Golden, BC, you'll find a paradise tailor-made for the young and adventurous. Hop on a mountain bike and conquer thrilling trails that will leave your heart racing and your spirit soaring. After an adrenaline-fueled day in the mountains, retreat to cozy log cabins, where you can recharge and create lasting memories with your friends and loved ones. And don't forget to immerse yourself in the beauty of Emerald Lake, with its striking coloured waters and mountain backdrop—an oasis that will leave you in awe.

Photo Credit: Kootenay Rockies Tourism/Mitch Winton

Soar to New Heights: Golden Skybridge

Unveiled in the summer of 2021, the Golden Skybridge proudly holds the title of Canada's highest suspension bridge. Towering 130 meters (426 feet) above the canyon, embark on a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience. As you traverse the bridge, be prepared to blown away by the breathtaking vistas of the Columbia Valley.

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure at the Golden Skybridge, where not one, but two incredible suspension bridges await. Take in the unforgettable views, and allow at least an hour to fully enjoy the experience, including photo stops.

Golden Skybridge is easily accessible from the Trans-Canada Highway en route to Revelstoke, just a few minutes outside of Golden.

You can book online and save 10% off the regular priced tickets, or alternatively for people who are seeking more adventure - the Adventure Pass Package may be the way to go (for ages 8+ up). The Package includes Golden Skybridge Admission, Canyon Edge Challenge Course, Sky Zipline, Axe Throwing (16+ only), Climbing Wall & the Rail Rider Mountain Coaster.

Discover Emerald Lake

Just a little over an hour's drive from Golden, covering approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles), awaits a scenic route that will take you towards Emerald Lake. Take a leisurely stroll along the well-marked path, encircling the pristine waters. For an even better look at the Lake, consider renting a canoe or kayak to paddle across the tranquil waters, make sure you pack your camera!

If you're up for a hike, don't miss the 5.2-kilometer (3.2-mile) perimeter trail, offering panoramic vistas and hidden gems amidst the unspoiled wilderness that envelopes Emerald Lake.

As you make your way back to Golden, don't forget to take a detour and witness the awe-inspiring Natural Bridge. Here, the powerful Kicking Horse River has carved a path through natural rock formations, creating a captivating spectacle of rushing water.

Conquer the Kicking Horse River

Looking to embrace some adrenaline-pumping adventure that'll leave you breathless and grinning from ear to ear? Look no further than an epic white-water rafting experience in Golden, BC! Get ready to ride the exhilarating rapids of the Kicking Horse River, where mother nature's power is unleashed for your enjoyment.

Photo Credit: Wild Water Adventures

Wild Water Adventures is located 20 minutes from Golden, and offers affordable white-water rafting packages to suit every budget. Prices typically range from $100 to $200 per person, depending on the duration of the trip and the level of adventure you choose. They have a variety of exhilarating routes that cater to different skill levels and preferences:

  • The Whitewater Exciter: Embark on a half-day adventure that takes you through the heart of the Kicking Horse River, tackling thrilling Class III and IV rapids. This route is perfect for beginners and those looking for an exciting introduction to white-water rafting.
  • Maximum Horsepower: Offers a double run, covering 24 kilometers (the longest run near Banff National Park) and 24 exhilarating rapids—the longest and most thrilling whitewater trip. Warm up in 16-foot rafts and then switch to smaller 14-foot all-paddle rafts for an intensified, adrenaline-fueled ride.
  • And many more are found here.

No matter which route you choose, rest assured that Wild Water Adventures provides expert guides, top-notch safety equipment, and an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Get Off the Beaten Track

Golden is a community that embraces  mountain biking culture with open arms. With over 100 kilometers (62 miles) of singletrack cross-country trails available on Mountain Shadows, Moonrakers, and the CBT Mainline Network, riders of all skill levels can find their perfect path.

From easygoing, smooth tracks to challenging and adrenaline-pumping downhill runs, there is something for everyone.

For the adventure seekers, Mount 7 offers one of the most notable and demanding downhill trail systems in Canada. These trails are available to the hardcore downhill riders, but make sure to arrange a ride to the top if you’re not looking to do the climb yourself .

Alternatively, you can head over to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort for a  a gondola ride that will transport you to the summit  where an epic 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) downhill ride awaits.

Kicking Horse also has bike rentals for those without their own gear, offering a full-day downhill biking package that includes bike rental, a lift ticket, as well as safety gear such as a helmet and pads for your arms and legs or additionally,  mountain bike lessons for those learning to ride downhill.

The resort offers both day passes and season passes. It’s recommended to purchase your lift tickets online before arriving at the lift. Ticket prices start at $125 per adult on weekdays and $139 on weekends. For youths (ages 13-17), weekday tickets are priced at $94 CAD, while weekend tickets are $104 CAD. Planning ahead can also lead to great savings, with discounts of up to 20% available when booking at least two weeks in advance.

Staying in Golden

Step into our cozy A-framed log cabin, located in the heart of Golden, along the Kickhorse River, and get ready to be blown away by the sheer charm and Instagram-worthy ambiance.

Photo Credit: Victor Aerden

From the moment you arrive, you'll feel right at home in our timber-framed lodge. With its perfect blend of convenient amenities and rustic charm, the Basecamp Lodge Golden is the ultimate mountain retreat.

Book your stay here, and enjoy Golden!

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