Tucked between six national parks and surrounded by towering peaks, Golden, British Columbia is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or seeking scenic moments, this small mountain town delivers big on adventure. From whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River to sky-high suspension bridges and wildlife encounters, Golden is packed with unforgettable experiences. Here’s your go-to list of the top things to do in Golden, BC:
Raft the Legendary Kicking Horse River
Looking for one of the most exciting things to do in Golden? Whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River is an absolute must.
Wild Water Adventures offers trips for all experience levels—from mellow floats to thrilling rapids. The Kicking Horse is known for its fast, glacial-fed waters and dramatic scenery, making it one of the best rafting rivers in Canada.
Choose Your Adventure:
Gentle Rafting Trips – Perfect for first-timers or families with kids ages 8+.
Whitewater Exciter – Pure action through Class III-IV+ rapids. Experience some of the biggest and best whitewater in the Canadian Rockies!
The Tradition – stunning scenery 🤝 biggest and best rapids.
With our expert guides, you’ll navigate the river with confidence, enjoy every moment, and forge a meaningful connection with its wild beauty. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, rafting the Kicking Horse is a bucket-list experience.
Add More Adventure with a Combo Package
Want to get the most out of your trip to Golden? Wild Water Adventures offers curated adventure packages that pair whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River with other iconic Rockies experiences—like sightseeing at Lake Louise, riding the gondola, climbing Mt. Norquay, or ziplining in Radium.
Options include:
Rockies Explorer – Rafting + Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Tour
Up the Mountain, Down the River – Rafting + Gondola Ride & Lunch
Rapids & Ridges – Rafting + Via Ferrata Climb
Zip & Raft – Whitewater + Zipline Tour
👉 Explore all Adventure Packages and book your full-day thrill!
Hike Through the Best Trails in Banff and Beyond
One of the most rewarding things to do in the Canadian Rockies? Lace up your boots and hit the trails with Canadian Rockies Hiking by Yamnuska Mountain Adventures— a trusted name in guided hiking since 1977.
From Banff to Lake Louise, Jasper to Canmore, this region offers some of the most scenic and inspiring hiking in the world. Choose from leisurely day hikes along glacier-fed lakes, alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers, or more challenging multi-day backpacking adventures through rugged backcountry terrain.
Highlights include:
Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Sightseeing Tour – A 3-hour guided visit to two of Banff’s most iconic lakes
Custom & Private Hiking Trips – Tailored experiences for families, friends, or solo travelers
Backpacking Adventures – Multi-day excursions led by certified guides, suitable for all experience levels
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a peaceful walk or an experienced trekker seeking high-altitude challenge, there’s a guided adventure here for you. Yamnuska’s low guest-to-guide ratio offers a more personalized, informative, and unforgettable experience.
Explore the Golden Skybridge
Home to Canada’s highest suspension bridges, the Golden Skybridge offers jaw-dropping views and a dose of adrenaline. Two expansive bridges stretch across a deep canyon with views of waterfalls and surrounding peaks.
For families or adventurers looking for more, the site also includes:
Zipline and canyon swing
Axe throwing
Kids’ treetop play park
Walking trails and photo-worthy viewpoints
It’s a perfect mix of thrills and scenery, all just minutes from downtown Golden.
Visit the Northern Lights Wolf Centre
Get up close with one of nature’s most fascinating creatures at the Northern Lights Wolf Centre. This educational experience gives visitors a rare opportunity to learn about wolf conservation and even walk alongside wolves in a natural setting.
Highlights include:
Interpretive talks and tours
Photo ops with the wolves
Family-friendly and indoors/outdoors
This is one of the most unique things to do in Golden, and a great option for cloudy or rainy days.
Ride the Golden Eagle Express Gondola
Hop aboard the Golden Eagle Express Gondola at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort for incredible alpine views. In summer, the gondola provides access to high-elevation hiking trails and a viewing platform where you might spot the resident grizzly bear, Boo.
At the top, don’t miss:
The Eagle’s Eye Restaurant, Canada’s highest-elevation dining experience
Alpine wildflowers and interpretive trails
Stunning views of the Columbia Valley and Purcell Mountains
Other Fun Things to Do in Golden
Golden Farmers’ Market: Fresh produce, local art, and live music.
Golden Museum & Archives: Dive into the history of the town and its railway roots.
Spirit Square: Catch live performances, cultural events, or just relax by the fountain.
Rock Climbing: Guided climbs for all levels in Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise— perfect for beginners, families, or anyone looking to scale new heights.
Why Golden, BC Belongs on Your Adventure List
With so many incredible things to do in Golden— from hiking and gondolas to rafting and wildlife encounters— it’s no wonder this little town has become a big destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to experience Golden in all its glory!
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Golden, BC
What are the best things to do in Golden for adventure lovers?
Golden is a top destination for adventure seekers. Popular activities include whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River, hiking Mount 7, ziplining at the Golden Skybridge, and mountain biking at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.
Is whitewater rafting in Golden good for beginners?
Yes! Wild Water Adventures offers a variety of rafting trips, including beginner-friendly and family-oriented options. Our expert guides prioritize safety while making sure everyone has fun on the river.
Are there things to do in Golden during the summer?
Absolutely. Summer is one of the best times to visit Golden. You can go rafting, hiking, ziplining, canoeing, or take a scenic gondola ride. There’s also a weekly farmers’ market and live music in town.
What is the Golden Skybridge?
The Golden Skybridge is home to Canada’s highest suspension bridges, offering incredible views of a deep canyon and surrounding mountains. It also features ziplining, canyon swings, and a treetop play area for kids.
Is Golden, BC good for families?
Yes, Golden offers a mix of family-friendly activities such as easy hikes, gondola rides, wolf education programs, and gentle rafting trips. There are also plenty of local dining options and parks for kids to enjoy.
Where is Golden, BC located?
Golden is located in southeastern British Columbia, nestled between six national parks. It’s about a 90-minute drive from Banff, making it a great addition to any Rockies road trip.
