Golden sits at the center of five spectacular national parks—Banff, Yoho, Jasper, Kootenay, and Mt. Revelstoke—making it one of the most stunning mountain destinations on the planet. Between soaring, craggy peaks, dense forest, and majestic wildlife, it’s easy to see why this area draws nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. But beyond the usual hiking, biking, and sightseeing, there’s one particularly unforgettable wildlife experience: a visit to the Grizzly Bear Refuge at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.
Meet Boo the Grizzly
The Grizzly Bear Refuge is home to a single resident: Boo, a tremendous 900-pound (408 kg) grizzly with a story as remarkable as his size.
In 2002, Boo and his sibling were tragically orphaned when their mother was shot by a poacher near the Golden townsite as she foraged for food. She frequented the area because it was generally free of male grizzlies, offering her cubs relative safety. Her death left the cubs vulnerable, but fortunately, local wildlife officials quickly found and relocated them. Soon, a specially-built refuge was created just for the pair of brothers. Sadly, Boo’s sibling didn’t survive his first winter, dying of natural causes during hibernation. Boo, named for the Cariboo Mountains where he was found, has thrived ever since. Now 23 years old, Boo is believed to be the largest known grizzly in the Canadian Rockies.
His 20-acre enclosure replicates a bear's natural habitat, with trees, a den, streams, and even a mountain slope for him to explore. In 2006, Boo briefly escaped in search of a mate—but to the surprise of everyone, he returned voluntarily. That alone says something about how well the refuge suits him. One of Boo's favourite summer snacks? Frozen watermelon.
What to Expect on Your Visit
Many people come to the refuge expecting a zoo-like setting, but that is not at all the case. Boo's area is about halfway up Kicking Horse Mountain, and to reach it, you’ll board the Catamount chairlift, offering panoramic views along the way. Once you disembark the lift, it’s a short walk to the enclosure and a small interpretive centre, where you can learn more about Boo, grizzly behaviour, and regional wildlife conservation. It's one of the most unique Golden activities, especially for travelers interested in seeing wildlife in a more authentic and respectful setting.
When is the Grizzly Bear Refuge open?
The refuge operates seasonally, in three distinct periods:
Early Season (May 31 – June 20): Open Friday to Monday. Ranger Assist Program tours are offered Tuesday through Thursday at 9:00 am and 4:00 pm. A 2:00 pm tour is also available by calling ahead.
Peak Summer (June 21 – September 2): Open daily.
Late Season (September 6 – 29): Open Friday to Monday, with Ranger Assist Program tours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 9:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 3:00 pm.
Guided tours
Visitors can go on walking interpretive tours hourly from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm daily, excluding 1:00 pm, when Boo often naps or hides out. The hour-long tours are led by knowledgeable rangers who explain Boo’s behaviors, his habitat, and the refuge’s conservation goals. You're encouraged to linger after the tour to watch Boo roam, climb, or nap under a tree. Like most wildlife, he tends to be most active in the morning, so earlier time slots are recommended. Worried about not spotting Boo during your visit? The refuge offers a free return tour if you don't.
Up-close encounters
For a more in-depth experience, consider booking the Ranger Assist Program (RAP). This small-group tour includes a maximum of five participants and provides behind-the-scenes access to the refuge. You’ll meet the ranger team, get a closer look at day-to-day operations, and hear firsthand stories about what it’s like to work alongside one of Canada’s most famous bears.
Morning RAP tours begin at 9:00 am, starting from the Day Lodge and accessing the refuge by vehicle.
Afternoon RAP tours start at 3:00 pm. Guests meet the ranger at the Catamount Chair at 2:45 pm, ride up, and are driven back to the base afterward.
Note: RAP tours must be booked at least one day in advance.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Although Boo lives in captivity, it's important to remember that he's still a wild grizzly bear that behaves like, well, a wild grizzly bear.
Aim for the morning: Boo is most active earlier in the day. Book a tour between 9:00 am and noon to increase your chances of seeing him out and about.
Book in advance: If you're interested in the Ranger Assist Program, reserve your spot at least one day ahead. Spots are limited.
Check seasonal hours: The refuge operates on a seasonal schedule with varying days and times, so confirm availability before you go.
Dress in layers: Even during the height of summer, mountain weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, water, and sun protection. You never know what Mother Nature has planned!
Be respectful of Boo: Boo’s enclosure ensures a safe distance, but being respectful helps maintain his natural instincts and comfort. He's still a wild grizzly. Avoid crouching, sudden movements, or direct eye contact. Calm voices and slow movements help keep everyone (including Boo) comfortable.
Pack light: No food is allowed at the refuge. Leave snacks behind to protect Boo’s natural diet and prevent curious sniffing.
Other Activities at Kicking Horse Mountain
There are plenty of other things to do at Kicking Horse Mountain, so make a full day of it (or better yet, a weekend—Kicking Horse Lodging makes the perfect basecamp!).
Thrill-seekers can enjoy:
Mountain Bike Park (opens June 21) with terrain for all skill levels.
Via Ferrata (opens June 28) - Choose from three climbing routes of differing lengths and degrees of exposure (i.e., difficulty).
For something still exciting but with a milder thrill:
Take the 8-person Golden Eagle Express—Canada’s highest sightseeing gondola—to the top, an 18-minute ride that climbs nearly 4,000 vertical feet (about 1,220 meters).
Take in panoramic views from the observation area; or
Dine at Eagle’s Eye Restaurant (elevation 7,700 ft / 2,347 m)—Canada’s highest-elevation dining experience.
Best Time to Visit
The Grizzly Bear Refuge is only open during summer, roughly late May through September, when Boo is active and not hibernating. For the best chance to see him moving about, visit in the early morning.
Make It a Weekend at Kicking Horse Lodging
Why rush your experience? Turn your Grizzly Bear Refuge visit into a full mountain escape with a stay at Kicking Horse Lodging.
Whether you're here for a once-in-a-lifetime bear encounter, hiking alpine trails, or riding the gondola to dinner at Eagle’s Eye Restaurant, our cozy mountain accommodations put you steps from it all. With a variety of suites, easy access to resort amenities, and the best views in Golden, we’re not just another place to stay; we’re your basecamp for relaxation and adventure.
Pro tip: Book ahead during summer weekends—they fill up fast!
