Originally published as a paid partnership on Explore Magazine

  

From epic high-mountain hikes to family-friendly rafting trips, Golden has something for everyone. This outdoor adventure hotspot in British Columbia will entice adventurers while providing accessible options.

In 2021, it is more important than ever to plan ahead for sustainable, responsible travel and to follow the current provincial guidelines. To help get you started, below you will find examples of hiking trails, mountain biking routes, self-contained accommodation, plus a preview of an exciting new activity to highlight how there's something for every adventurer in Golden, BC.

  

Hiking Trails:

Agathe Bernard

The Iceline Trail in Yoho National Park is known as one of the best hiking trails in Canada, providing spectacular views of Takakkaw Falls and the Little Yoho Valley. There are plenty of route options to adjust the length of the hike including overnight camping.

Pearly Rock in Glacier National Park is another full-on hike for experiencer adventurers. Canyon Creek is a four-kilometre trail that takes about one and a half hours to reach the upper lookout.

Looking for kid-friendly treks? There are so many that most people don't know about! A few local favourites include Thompson Falls in the Blaeberry Valley near Golden, the Rotary Trails around the town of Golden, Wapta Falls in Yoho National Park, Rock Garden trail in Glacier National Park and Hemlock Grove in Glacier National Park.

 

Mountain Biking:

Robin Munshaw

If you come to Golden in the warmer months, you really should give mountain biking a try. The season starts in April and goes until November.

An absolute mecca for cycling enthusiasts, Golden has over 185 kilometres of XC trails in three different trail systems. Two of the trail systems (the CBT and Mountain Shadows networks) are easily accessible from the town of Golden on your bike.

Don’t leave your kids behind—the Moonraker trails are great spot to begin. Plus, the paths start at Cedar Lake, which has a swimming dock and campground. Did someone say, “perfect summer day”?

In 2020, the Golden Cycling Club developed its first adaptive-inclusive trail. The 3.6-kilometre loop is two metres wide and has a minimal elevation gradient, perfect for adaptive bikes.

To learn more about mountain biking in Golden, keep an eye on the Tourism Golden biking page for great local insider knowledge.

 

Self-Contained Accommodation:

Dave Best 

When the time comes to travel again, many outdoor adventurers will be looking for secluded places to stay that are still close to adventure. Luckily, Golden has several self-contained accommodation options.

The cabins, cottages and lodges for rent offer a diversity of amenities. Some provide full kitchens, so all you have to do is pick up groceries and grab dinner to-go in town. The best part? Remote, stunning locations give you the feeling of being in the middle of nature without being far from access points to trails.

 

Golden Skybridge:

Chris Amat

Previously known as the Rocky Mountain Adventure Park, the incredible Golden Skybridge is set to open in early June and will feature Canada's two highest suspension bridges, hovering 129 metres above the forest floor and boasting panoramic, 360-degree views.

Far below, a thundering 60-metre waterfall pours. Forest and canyon ridge walking trails offer a closer-to-the-ground experience over three kilometres. The treetop village play park will entertain kids. Bungee swings, ziplines and more will be added in the near future.

Chris Amat

When You Go:

Travel Responsibly

What does travelling responsibly look like? The global pandemic requires advance planning, the ability to adapt and a conscious regard for others, while keeping health and safety front of mind. In the future, we need to continue to be responsible for the environment, other people, trail stewardship, taking care of the place we love to adventure and viewing wildlife responsibility.

Here are four ways to be a more responsible adventurer:

Keep the Trails Clean: There’s a code of conduct hikers need to follow. For starters, stay on the trail to avoid causing erosion, pack out what you pack in rather than leaving garbage and respect everyone’s space—including wildlife!

Bike Safely: Refresh yourself with biking rules before you hit the streets or trails. Make sure you know the correct signals and ask for help if you need it!

Respect the Environment: Follow Leave No Trace guidelines, stay out of sensitive or closed areas and do your best to use eco-friendly, sustainable and biodegradable products.

Obey Covid Regulations: Now is not the time to travel out of our local areas. In a few months, things might change; stay updated on BC’s provincial restrictions. If in doubt, dream now and travel later.