Although Golden is understandably best known for its incredible ski resort, the area offers four-season recreation (and scenery!).
Whether riding the gondola to a world-class mountain bike park in the summer, soaking in a hot tub on a crisp autumn evening, or chasing springtime waterfalls, the best activities on Kicking Horse don't fit into just one category or season. And when you stay at Kicking Horse Lodging, you're ideally located to partake in as many of them as you wish.
Top 5 spring activities in kicking horse
The snow is melting and flowers are just beginning to bloom, if you don’t mind a bit of mud there are plenty of reasons to spend most of your time outside.
1) See waterfalls at their best
Snowmelt is in full swing come springtime, causing area waterfalls to roar. Don’t miss Yoho National Park's short 2.3-kilometer hike to jaw-dropping Wapta Falls, a staggering 150 meters wide. Later in the season, once the snow clears, check out Takakkaw Falls, one of the tallest cascades in Canada at 373 meters tall.
2) Check out rainy-day activities indoors
Image Courtesy of Bacchus Books & Cafe
A rainy autumn day doesn’t have to dampen the buzz – some of Kicking Horse’s top 5 fall activities are inside. Learn about the area’s history at the Golden Museum, and continue with an art and shopping fix at the Art Gallery of Golden. Then, find a new favourite read at Bacchus Books and Cafe!
3) Play a round of golf
Soak up the springtime sun by teeing off at the Golden Golf Club. The 18-hole resort was designed to maximize views at every step, with a stunning location along the Columbia River. Be sure to book a tee time in advance, as this is widely considered one of British Columbia’s best golf resorts – it's that popular!
4) Head to The Skybridge
Opening late spring, the Skybridge will have you up in the clouds with two suspension bridges, a mountain coaster, a zip line, an adventure course, and more! This attraction is a must-stop for thrill seekers who want a unique view of the Columbia Valley.
5) Go hiking
Although many high alpine hikes in Golden are still impassable until early summer, exploring lower-elevation trails is one of the top 5 spring activities in Kicking Horse. Take in the rushing water of Canyon Creek, with sheer cliffs reminiscent of Yellowstone. Or, check out the Mountain Shadows trail system, which is also popular with mountain bikers.
As snow clears on local trails into the summer, it’s the perfect time to explore at higher elevations. There are terrific hikes on Kicking Horse, with the gondola ascending the mountain to easily access several trails. Of course, there are dozens of other hikes throughout Golden and nearby Yoho.
Top 5 summer activities
The sun is shining, the snow has (mostly) cleared, and the mountains beckon for exploration. There’s nothing quite like summer in Golden!
1) Explore Kicking Horse on two wheels
It’s still possible to hit the slopes on Kicking Horse in the summer – on a bicycle! The resort offers some of Canada’s best alpine mountain biking, both single-track and in its lift-accessible bike park. Best of all, when you stay at Kicking Horse Lodging, you don't even need to drive to these epic trails!
2) Take Flight
Golden is one of the most spectacular places to paraglide with our three mountain ranges, rivers, and valley. Tandem gliding is available late May through October with Altitude Adventures.
3) Raft the river
Kicking Horse River is highly regarded as one of the best whitewater rivers in the world, so floating down the rapids is undoubtedly one of the top 5 summer activities in Golden. Several outfitters in the area offer everything from family-friendly scenic floats to gripping alpine adventures where you'll get soaked.
4) Learn all about bears
Kicking Horse's own Grizzly Bear Refuge is the world's largest enclosed and protected grizzly habitat. Book an interpretive tour, then ride the chair lift to the centre.
5) Climb the via ferrata
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort introduced something guaranteed to become one of the area's top 5 summer activities: a Via Ferrata. Choose from one of three routes, all complemented by unforgettable scenery over the Rockies, and explore the iron rungs and cables with an experienced tour guide.
Top 5 fall activities
As the temperatures and leaves drop, this transitional season brings some of Golden’s quietest moments, with plenty of open space to enjoy the gorgeous scenery.
1) Enjoy tranquillity on the mountain
With far fewer hikers around and skiers yet to arrive, Kicking Horse is at its quietest. Wander the mountain, breathe fresh air, and watch for wildlife. Then, retreat to your accommodation at Kicking Horse Lodging and enjoy a peaceful hot tub soak surrounded by autumn foliage.
2) Get some retail therapy
With the holidays on the horizon, fall is an ideal time to dive into Golden’s shopping scene. Start at the eccentric Moon River Gift Gallery, browsing everything from home decor to crystals and sweaters. Continue with more chic offerings at Bona Fide, and re-fuel on coffee while checking out outdoor gear at The Handle Bar.
3) Visit the Northern Lights Wolf Centre
Learn all about these wild canines at this educational centre, which promotes their conservation and awareness. Take a short interpretive tour or even book a wolf walk, where you'll have the opportunity to stroll alongside them with no enclosure for 1.5 hours.
4) Go fishing
Situated perfectly amongst freshwater rivers, streams, and lakes, you’ll be able to catch a variety of species in the area. Fish species range from early and late rainbow trout, small cutthroat trout in alpine lakes to char in the river and giant ling [burbot] and bull trout in the hydro reservoir. Find your next fishing hole with Tourism Golden.
5) Discover Golden Larches
In mid-to-late September the needles on these unique pine trees turn a bright yellow, lighting up the forests for a true fall experience. Find hiking trails in nearby Banff National Park to bask in the beauty of these trees yourself.
Top 5 winter activities
Blanketed by glistening snow, Kicking Horse is at its most bustling in the winter, and there are numerous ways to enjoy the festive season.
1) Kicking Horse Mountain
With its epic terrain and trails, it’s no surprise that Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is on the top of our list for winter activities. For skiing and snowboarding, Choose from over 120 runs on one of the steepest ski resorts in North America, and enjoy the convenience of ski-in, ski-out room access with Kicking Horse Lodging. Don’t worry about bringing the whole family along either, grab a sled or tube and slide down the well-groomed gentle slopes or skate circles in the festive ice rink. Afterward, warm up around the fire pits with s'mores and enjoy live music. It’s no wonder why Kicking Horse Lodging has been named one of the best family ski resorts in Canada.
2) Get your adrenaline pumping
Just outside of Golden, you can try adventurous activities, including ice climbing up a frozen waterfall at Yoho National Park, hitching a ride on a dog sled, or flying through trails on a snowmobile. Off the main mountain, heli and cat skiing are must-tries for experienced skiers. For a slightly slower, but still exciting pace try snowshoeing or riding a fat bike on the snow.
3) Dawn Mountain Nordic Centre
If you’re looking for a more laid-back skiing adventure, head on over to the Nordic Centre at the base of Kicking Horse Mountain for cross-country skiing. Offering over 33 km of trails suitable for everyone from beginner to expert.
4) Discover Golden’s dining and drinking scene
With an array of culinary delights both on the mountain and in town, Golden’s food scene won’t disappoint. Dive into delicious surf and turf cuisine, sample a delicious sandwich with a beer on the patio, or stay cozy with a latte and fresh pastries.
5) Pamper yourself with a spa day
With frigid temps outside, winter is the best time of year to indulge in a spa treatment. Choose from several spas near Kicking Horse, including massage, restorative steam rooms, hot tubs, or saunas.
Stay Local to Enjoy the Best Activities on Kicking Horse
When you book a stay at Kicking Horse Lodging, not only will you be in the best possible location in Golden, you'll also enjoy a host of unique amenities. Choose from three distinct lodging types, and take advantage of our Stay | Well Amenities, which include complimentary snowshoe and SUP rentals, ski locks and storage, and so much more.
Check out our current offers before booking, and we'll see you soon!
