Spring at Kicking Horse sits in a sweet spot. Ski season has wrapped up, summer crowds haven’t arrived yet, and the pace across the valley slows noticeably. Maybe you’re travelling with someone who skis and you don’t. Maybe you’ve never learned, don’t care to, or simply want a relaxing shoulder season getaway.
Whatever the reason, spring in Golden delivers an easy-going, scenic experience that doesn’t revolve around chairlifts and lift tickets.
And best of all, you won’t be short on things to do. From low-key mountain activities to excellent food and a surprisingly vibrant cultural scene, there’s plenty to enjoy both at the resort and in town—just a 15-minute drive away.
Winter Walks and Hikes
If your idea of spring in Golden involves fresh air and movement—but without steep, technical terrain—you’re in the right place. Golden has an excellent network of flat, well-maintained trails that stay accessible even when there is snow on the ground.
Downtown, the River Walk leads to one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks: the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge. Stretching 46 meters/151 feet across the Kicking Horse River, it’s the longest freestanding timber-frame pedestrian bridge in Canada and offers impressive views in every direction. Pair the walk with time exploring downtown shops and cafes.
Other easy options include the Rotary Trail, Confluence Park Trail, the Hemlock Grove boardwalk, and Canyon Creek—all ideal for casual strolls when snow still lingers at higher elevations.
Kicking Horse Lodging guests can also take advantage of complimentary snowshoe rentals through the Stay® | Well amenities program. Snowshoeing is a surprisingly approachable way to explore the landscape, even for first-timers. On the mountain, two signed loops near Palliser Road offer gentle terrain and short, manageable distances of two km (1.24 miles) and four km (2.5 miles). For variety, the Moonraker Trail System around Cedar Lake provides multiple interconnected routes just a short drive away.
Immerse in the Local Foodie Scene
Early spring is the perfect excuse to lean into Golden activities that revolve around food. Fewer visitors mean easier reservations and a more relaxed dining atmosphere.
Several restaurants on the Kicking Horse resort grounds operate year-round, including the casual Peaks Grill at the mountain base and show-stopping Eagle’s Eye Restaurant at the summit. If your visit happens to overlap with the tail end of ski season, Whitetooth Grill and the Western-themed Winston Bar and Bistro add even more diverse options, with games like life-sized Jenga making them lively evening hangouts.
In town, Golden punches well above its weight class in terms of the culinary scene. Ethos Cafe appears to be a fairly unassuming coffee shop but serves shockingly good breakfast and lunch dishes, while Reposados Tacos keeps things lively with Mexican dishes and margaritas. Whitetooth Brewing Company is a local favourite with a cult-like following and the vibe is so inviting that even non-beer drinkers enjoy it. Order a flight to sample standouts like Speed Metal Stout or Thread the Needle Witbier. It’s also family-friendly until 4:00 pm, which makes it one of the more flexible things to do in Golden with kids.
Interact With Wolves
Less than 30 minutes from the resort, the Northern Lights Wolf Centre offers a memorable, wildlife-focused experience. Open seven days a week year-round, the centre focuses on wolf conservation and education through guided, small-group interpretive tours.
For something truly unique, consider booking the Walk With Wolves. These 1.5-hour experiences allow guests to (safely!) walk alongside the wolves in their natural environment, without enclosures. It’s equal parts educational and unforgettable—and a standout option for visitors looking for meaningful Golden activities beyond the slopes.
Ride the Gondola—No Skis Required
Just because you’re not skiing doesn’t mean you have to miss the views. The Golden Eagle Express Gondola runs year-round, carrying riders to the summit at roughly 2,350 meters (7,700 feet). Scenic gondola tickets, also called sightseeing tickets, are available through guest services, but particularly in the off-season, we recommend checking on specific operating days and hours ahead of time.
Once at the top, the sweeping mountain views alone are worth the trip. If timing allows, booking a meal at Eagle’s Eye is a smart move—dinner reservations include gondola access, making it one of the most relaxing things to do in Golden.
Stroll Downtown Golden
Downtown Golden is compact, easily walkable, and full of personality. Spend an afternoon browsing independent shops, from the eclectic Moon River Gift Gallery to stylish finds at Bona Fide. Bacchus Books and Cafe is a lovely stop for a coffee and a new read, while The Handle Bar creatively pairs caffeine with outdoor gear browsing.
For a dose of local history, the Golden Museum offers thoughtful exhibits on Swiss mountain guides, early trading posts, and the origins of the Kicking Horse River. Art lovers should also pop into the Art Gallery of Golden, which showcases rotating exhibitions from regional artists.
Kick Back, Relax, and Enjoy a Show
Spring evenings are made for low-key entertainment. Kicking Horse Culture, which is also the home of the Art Gallery of Golden, hosts concerts, theater performances, festivals, photography exhibits, and even the occasional comedy show throughout the year.
For something extra mellow, catch a film at Kicking Horse Movies, AKA Golden Cinema. The locally owned theatre has two screens, stadium seating, and regularly shows current releases—especially perfect for a rainy or chilly night.
Experience a Different Side of Kicking Horse This Spring
Early spring reveals a significantly quieter, more intimate side of Kicking Horse and Golden. Absent of the hustle and bustle of peak ski season or summer tourism, it’s easier to slow down, eat well, explore at your own pace, and really get to know this special destination. Whether you’re here for scenic walks, wildlife encounters, or nothing more than a simple change of scenery, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in Golden in spring—no skis required.
Book your stay today, choosing from a variety of accommodation options to best suit your needs.
