Getting back to nature, this small mountain town offers travellers the perfect base in which to explore all the Rocky Mountain region has to offer.
Western Canada is renowned for its stunning mountains, outdoor recreation, and spectacular panoramic views. Millions of international visitors travel thousands of kilometres each year to experience the magic the mountain provinces have to offer. With them, however, comes a bustle that can distract from the peaceful ambiance many visitors are seeking.
To get off the beaten path, try visiting the quieter side of the Rockies. Just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Calgary, and under eight hours from Vancouver, Golden remains one of the region’s best authentic mountain towns, offering similar access to the national parks as Banff, Lake Louise, and Canmore. Summer is a busy time no matter the destination in the Rockies, but in spring, fall, and winter, Golden offers a quiet seclusion no longer synonymous with other mountain destinations.
A Basecamp to the Rockies
Golden sits within a two-hour drive of six national parks: Yoho, Glacier, Kootenay, Banff, Jasper, and Mount Revelstoke. It’s the perfect basecamp for those looking to explore the Rockies with the ability to visit two or three of the world’s most beautiful natural reserves in a single day. To the east lies the iconic sightseeing of Yoho National Park with Emerald Lake and Wapta Falls. To the west lies the remote Glacier National Park with the historic Rogers Pass and beautiful glacier views.
Outside of its idyllic location, Golden itself has plenty of activities geared toward travellers of all types and skill levels. Nearby, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort offers lift-accessed hiking where visitors can explore trails of varying difficulty levels, taking them along the ridges of the high alpine. For the animal lovers, the resort is also home to a resident grizzly bear, Boo. Nearby, 426 feet above Columbia Valley, the Golden Skybridge hosts Canada’s highest suspension bridges and a special kind of adventure with unforgettable family-friendly experiences and everything from ziplines to the Railrider Mountain Coaster.
The Columbia River is one of the area’s most popular destinations for river floats, canoeing, kayaking, and birdwatching, with hundreds of species and over 15,000 migratory birds visiting the area every year.
A Budding Mountain Destination
All through the year, a visit to Golden offers unique opportunities for adventurers to tackle new challenges and experience the mountain region in a unique way. In the winter, Golden is defined by world-renowned skiing and other snow-based activities, sitting within a two-hour drive of five world-class ski resorts. In late spring, adventurers can tackle whitewater rafting, ATV tours, mountain biking, wildlife watching, and any number of outdoor activities suitable for both thrill-seekers and those looking for more general family fun. In early fall, the temperatures cool and it’s the best time of year for hiking, while late fall brings snow-covered mountains and a slower, cozier pace. Regardless of the season, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, keep an eye on weather conditions, and have the right equipment for their adventures.
Golden, B.C., offers an escape to the mountains like no other, and with its unbeatable location and budding reputation, it’s not likely to be the Rockies’ best-kept secret for much longer.
Make Golden your basecamp and plan your Rocky Mountain adventure today. Visit tourismgolden.com/rockies to learn more.
