If you’re a traveller who enjoys outdoor activities, you won’t want to miss exploring Kicking Horse hiking, biking, and running trails. Adding this activity to your daily itinerary is a great way to stay active during your stay on the mountain.
Whether for a short tour through the scenic landscape or an extended excursion in a national park, there is hiking near Golden suited for all ages and skill levels. Plus, with Kicking Horse Lodging’s Stay Well amenities, you can enjoy the mountain even better.
TOP RATED TRAILS NEAR GOLDEN
Trails considered the best for Kicking Horse Mountain hiking are plentiful and range from easy to difficult, so there's lots of fun for everyone. You can enjoy plenty of summer activities and take advantage of the mountain in the winter.
GOLDEN ROTARY TRAIL
Trail Difficulty: Easy
Although a 7-km loop, Golden Rotary Trail is rated easy and takes about two and a half hours to complete. The trail is popular for hikers, runners, and bikers and runs alongside the Kicking Horse River’s south side. There's also a pedestrian bridge, which makes a nice photo op.
Cedar Camp Trail
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Located in the Moonraker Trails Recreation Site less than a half-hour from Golden, Cedar Camp Trail is a scenic trail from start to finish. The relaxing 3.2-km out-and-back trail takes less than an hour to complete.
However, you can stop to observe the area's birds and other scenery. Whether hiking or mountain biking, this trail is a quiet and popular way to unwind. You can even bring your four-legged travelling companion – dogs are welcome to share the trail but must be on a leash.
Lake O'Hara
Trail Difficulty: Hard
Located in Yoho National Park, about a half-hour's drive from Kicking Horse Lodging, Lake O'Hara is a challenge even for seasoned hikers. It is a 23-km out-and-back trail that can take ten or more hours to complete.
The scenery along the way is stunning, with peaceful lakes and mountain views as your travelling companions. Reserve a shuttle bus ticket well in advance to ensure you can get quickly to the lake. Reviews note this is an exceptional hike but strenuous and a good choice for seasoned backcountry hikers.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY HIKES
With so many trails available, visitors enjoying Kicking Horse lodging won't have a problem finding hiking options for any experience level. That means that your entire family can explore the area without fear.
Golden Skybridge
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Golden Skybridge is about a 1 km loop with a moderate rating. The gravel-covered loop takes less than 30 minutes to complete, making this a relaxing walk with the family. Along the trail, you will encounter suspension bridges that span a canyon several hundred feet below.
Breathtaking views await as you walk over the expanse. As a heads up, there is a fee to enter, as guests can walk the two suspension bridges or get full access to on-site activities, including the Canyon Edge Challenge and a zip-line experience.
Confluence Park Trail
Trail Difficult: Easy
This 2-km trail takes about a half-hour to walk. The out-and-back trail runs along the Columbia River and is used by runners, walkers, and hikers. It is a fun way to check out the sights with family and enjoy the scenery without depleting your energy levels.
Hemlock Grove Boardwalk
Trail Difficulty: Easy
A pretty walk through fragrant stands of tall trees, some aged 300 years old, is the landscape at Hemlock Grove. This trail is only 300 meters, so it’s a perfect short loop with stroller and wheelchair access. You’ll find signs sharing facts about plant life and local animals to help you learn more about the area. The entire loop is done on the wooden boardwalk in Glacier National Park.
TRAILS OFF THE BEATEN BATH
While some trails are easy to find, others are hidden gems to be discovered. The trails below are great options if you love quiet hikes or just want something less traversed with amazing views.
Mummery Glacier
Trail Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
The trailhead for Mummery Glacier awaits in a remote spot in Glacier National Park. Technically, the hike is about 2.5 km one way and starts on an old logging road. To avoid getting lost, a detailed guide is recommended to find its location.
You’ll find mountain views, cascading waterfalls, and the glacier itself on the trail. At the end is a creek and a broken bridge that you can check out. Since the end of the trail comes near the glacier, adventurous hikers may want to explore around the foot of the glacier. But caution is important because you don’t want to risk falling on the ice.
Thompson Falls
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
If you’re interested in unique and beautiful hikes, Thompson Falls is a great place to check out. You’ll need about 4 hours to complete this trail, which is 11.9-km out and back. Many explorers love this trail for hiking, snowshoeing, and backpacking.
Depending on when you go during the day and season, you’ll find some quiet solitude on the trail, so if you prefer to be undisturbed, this could be the perfect choice. Since you also enjoy the river and fall views, there’s no shortage of scenery to enjoy while you make your way down the trail.
DAY TRAILS
For those of you who enjoy a full day on the trail, there are plenty of day hikes around Golden, B.C. Whether you enjoy the longer trails or shorter ones with activities and pit stops along the way, there are so many great options.
Canyon Creek Loop
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Another trail located within Moonraker Trails Recreation Site, the scenic loop is 14.8km long. On average, the trek takes a little over four hours. Hikers, mountain bikers, and birdwatchers frequent the circle.
The colourful scenery draws in visitors from all over, and the best time to access the trail is March through October. Expect a steep incline at the beginning for a short stretch before the trail evens off for a relaxing hike. Sweepingly tall forest and canyon stands and two serene lakes will act as the scenery for this more extended excursion.
Wapta Falls
Trail Difficulty: Easy
The 4.8-km hike is an adventure that turns a shorter hiking trek into an extended stay once you reach the falls. The out-and-back trail is easy to access and offers a refreshing oasis, especially if you hike during the summer. The gravel path leads to the top of the falls, which spans the Kicking Horse River.
Knockout views and the cool mist from the falls will greet you upon arrival. To get to the riverbank, backtrack a little. Pick up the trail again and head straight there. You’ll be able to relax under the mist, but bring an extra set of clothes if you don’t like staying soaked. The spray from the falls is powerful enough to leave your clothes waterlogged.
TIPS FOR HIKING AROUND GOLDEN
Whether you are taking in scenic views along an easily accessible trail or tapping into veteran hiking techniques, safety is the number one concern. When hiking, there are many things to consider as you plan your trail. Consider some of these tips when preparing for your next adventure.
Make sure to bring the following:
A map, compass, or GPS.
Cell phone and charger.
Snacks.
Plenty of water (extra if you’re hiking with a dog).
Sunscreen.
Safety kit to include a flashlight, firestarter, whistle, and a first-aid kit.
Multi-purpose tool or knife.
Bug/mosquito repellent.
Bear spray and/or bear bells
Toiletries (toilet tissue, hand sanitizer, waste bags, and a garbage bag.
If you’re not sure what to wear, consider these tips:
Wear sunglasses and a hat.
Wear sturdy hiking boots and tall socks (no flip-flops or sandals).
Dress in layers or bring a poncho in case of changes in the weather.
Avoid cotton clothing (it holds moisture) or denim (too heavy), and wear light-coloured clothing to see bugs better.
Other best practices to keep in mind:
Hike trails that fit your skill and experience level.
Bring the necessary items. Do not overpack to avoid too much weight.
Let someone know your plans and where you plan to hike in case of an emergency.
Eat a healthy meal and drink water about two hours before hiking.
With all the phenomenal hiking near Golden, you’re sure to enjoy the great outdoors, and Kicking Horse Lodging will even help out with national park passes as part of your stay.
After your hike, soothe your aches with a dip in your suite’s hot tub or relax with one of our fine dining options. If you’re ready to luxuriate and enjoy the outdoors, Kicking Horse Lodging is the place for you. Explore our offers and book now!
