What is a UNESCO Global Geopark,
And Why You Should Visit This One?
Learn about Tumbler Ridge, one of five Global Geoparks in North America and the only one in western Canada.
If you haven’t experienced outdoor adventure in Golden, you are not alone. Every year, many people pass through Golden while traveling the Trans-Canada Highway with no idea what they were missing. Let this be our little secret: Golden is a destination worthy of your attention.
Nestled in the heart of the Kootenay Rockies, Golden is known to those who have experienced it as a year-round outdoor adventure hot spot, surrounded by some of our country’s most beautiful national parks. Whether you’re looking to get your heart racing and reach new heights, or take things slow while exploring our pristine playground, there truly is something for everyone. Here are five outdoor adventures in Golden, courtesy of the staff at the British Columbia Visitor Centre @ Golden.
1. Go sky diving or gliding
Getting ready to take flight over Golden. Photo: Tourism Golden
Looking to cross sky diving off of your bucket list? Or perhaps paragliding or hang gliding are more your flying style? Whatever your comfort level or skill, you’ll be flying over Golden with breathtaking views in no time! With panoramic scenes of three mountain ranges, and one big open valley, you can often see people taking flight from the beautiful Mount 7 area, 1,219 m (4,000 ft) above the valley floor. Each year, events are held in Golden including the Willi Muller XC Challenge and Canadian Paragliding and Hang Gliding Nationals.
Tandem Skydiving can also be enjoyed from Golden Municipal Airport, the only place where you can skydive between two mountain ranges. When skydiving in Golden, you can expect to free fall up to 120 mph!
Click here for a list of sky diving and gliding companies in Golden.
2. Get out on the water
Rafting down the Kicking Horse River. Photo: Tourism Golden
With so many lakes and rivers at our doorstep, it is a shame to stay dry in Golden. Everyone can enjoy rafting white water rapids on the Kicking Horse, the first recognized BC Heritage River, or gently floating along the Blaeberry or Columbia River.
The Columbia River is home to the largest intact wetlands in North America. With so much to see and learn, this important local ecosystem can be enjoyed by kayak, canoe, or stand up paddleboard. There are local companies offering trips to experience the rivers or wetlands first hand. The lakes in the area are also perfect to swim or float upon, and there are some fantastic local fishing spots.
Click here for a list of rafting companies, here for a list of kayak/canoe/stand up paddleboard tour companies.
3. Go rock climbing
Exploring the new Via Ferrata at Kicking Horse Mountain. Photo: @andrewpavlidis via Instagram
The Kootenay Rockies have a long history with climbing and mountaineering. The Bugaboos, located in the Purcell Mountains, have been conquered by many climbing icons and are ready for you to follow in their carefully placed footsteps.
Featuring over 60 climbing routes, at the Spillimacheen Crags (located just south of Golden), you will find something to suit your ability and raise you to a new perspective. There are also many popular local ice climbing spots which offer a fantastic range of grades. If you’re new to climbing, or if the weather isn’t in your favour, we also have a local climbing gym in Golden – perfectly equipped for families.
4. Hit the mountain
Skiing at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Photo: Drew Wittstock
Are you into downhill adventures or cross-country? Do you prefer two wheels, four legs, or snow gear? Whatever your preference we guarantee there is a trail for you to ride in Golden. With 100 km (62 mi) of cross-country trails, as well as an array of downhill routes at Mount 7 and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Golden is gaining attention in the Rockies for mountain biking. When the snow falls the trails tell us a different story, and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort becomes a hub for downhill and cross country skiing and snowboarding. There are four other mountain resorts in the area as well as back country action with our many heli-skiing and cat skiing operations. Or go on a dog sledding adventure for another way to ride in the Rockies.
5. Go Snowmobiling, ATVing, or Quading
Exploring the powder. Photo: Tourism Golden
Along with its beautiful scenery, Golden has plenty of choices for snowmobile, ATV, Quad and 4×4 riding. Snowmobilers can play on over 240 km (149 mi) of groomed trails, four maintained areas and 13 distinct zones. Get your engine revving with a professionally guided tour, or bring out you own machine and the opportunities for exploration are endless.
Click here for a list of snowmobiling companies in Golden.
For tips, maps, and answers to any of your questions about Golden, please feel free to visit us at the local Visitor Information Centre or check out www.tourismgolden.com. We look forward to welcoming you soon!