Credit: Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
Golden, BC is a must-stop on the world-renowned Powder Highway – and it won’t take long for you to figure out why it’s a favourite for tourists of all ages. Experience all that this mountain locale has to offer and discover what it is that makes a trip to Golden, well…golden!
Strap on the skis
1. Heliskiing
Heliskiing was born in Golden’s backyard, and they’ve been perfecting it ever since. Three heliskiing companies in the area can help you perfect your skills, too. Choose from single and multi-day options, including different accommodation packages to find the adrenaline rush you’re looking for. Details
2. Chatter Creek
Chatter Creek is renowned worldwide, and for good reason. The only company in the area for cat skiing, the experience you’ll get will get the adrenaline pumping as you hit fresh powder up on the mountains. Choose from different packages, with all the details online. Details
Where: 2850 Bush River Rd, Donald; 250-340-7199
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is a must-stop on the Powder Highway. Whether you ski or snowboard, you won’t want to come back in after a day on the slopes. Discover why it’s known as the “Champagne Powder Capital of Canada” – you won’t be sorry. Book early to get the best deal! Details
Where: 1500 Kicking Horse Trail, Golden
Ski Touring
Golden Nordic Ski Club
Golden Nordic Ski Club is the one to contact when it comes to cross country skiing in the area. From 33 km of groomed trails at Dawn Mountain Resort to the trails on the Golden Golf Course close to town, they have trails for all levels of skiers. Plus, they can hook you up with all the gear you need. Details
Get out in the snow
Snowshoeing (Canada Wild Tours)
Stay close to town or strike out on your own deeper into Kicking Horse County. You can’t get much closer to nature than when you have snowshoes on your feet. Companies such as Canada Wild Tours offer rentals and tours of the best spots to go. Details
Ice Climbing
With the mountain peaks surrounding you, there’s no doubt that Golden is an ice climbing destination. Local guides can show you the best climbs around, while keeping safety at the forefront, no matter your experience. Explore the region, including areas such as Kicking Horse Canyon, roadside waterfalls in Yoho National Park, and more. Details
Rocky Mountain Buffalo Ranch
A great place to visit, and a great place to stay. Ideal for the whole family, Rocky Mountain Buffalo Ranch lets you return to nature all year round. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you explore the ranch, and even get a Buffalo Tour from Leo, the owner. Make sure you have your camera – you won’t want to miss that photo! Details
Where: 1739 Oberg Johnson Rd, Golden; 250-344-4779
Skating
During the winter, many community parks and lakes clear the ice, making the perfect spot to lace up your skates. Whether you’re racing your friends, teaching the kids to skate for the first time, or joining a pickup game of shinny, skating in the mountains is a truly Canadian experience you don’t want to miss. Many local shops have rentals available. Details
Fat Biking
Snow on the ground doesn’t mean it’s time to switch gears, just switch bikes. Fat bikes are designed to take on the snow. There are lots of places to try out the sport. Ask local rental shops for information on where the best trails are and how to get there. Details
Northern Lights Wolf Centre
One of the leaders in wolf conservation and rescue, Northern Lights is a great place to visit for the whole family (but leave the family dog at home…). Learn about the conservation efforts and take a tour to see the efforts firsthand. For a truly incredible experience, take the Walk with the Wolves tour and hike among the wolf pack! Details
Where: 1745 Short Road, Golden; 250-344-67998
Photo Credit: Northern Lights Wolf Centre
Tobogganing
Every hill becomes a toboggan hill in winter! You’re never too old to climb on the back of a sled and fly down the hill. Snake Hill, just up the road from Reflection Lake, is a local favourite, so you know it’s good. Make sure the hot chocolate is hot in the thermos for when you’re ready for a break. Details
Snowmobiling
Dogsledding
If you haven’t done this yet, now is the time to experience this interactive tour. Journey through the wilderness and get whisked back to the time of mushers and dog sleds. Details
Live like a local
Golden Rockets
Cheer on the home team! The Golden Rockets hockey team is part of the Junior B Kootenay Junior League, and the regular season stretches into February. Catch a home game at the Golden Arena and join the locals as they cheer on the boys. Details
Photo Credit: Golden Rockets
Golden Museum and Archives
Journey just one block off main street and travel back in time to the era of David Thompson and Swiss railway guides. Learn how the region was developed and how it became uniquely Golden, with settlers standing firm against the hard-to-settle elements to create a new home. The museum is open Monday-Friday, so plan accordingly. Details
Where: 1302 11 Ave S, Golden; 250-344-5169
Art Gallery of Golden
Where: 516 9 Ave N, Golden; 250-344-6186
Mark the Calendar
Huckleberry Loppet
Join the race or watch the locals go head to head in the weekend races of the Golden Nordic Ski Club’s Huckleberry Loppet. February 1 features classic, skating, and chariot cross country ski races of varying lengths, while February 2 sees skate ski races of up to 20 km take the stage. Details
Photo Credit: Golden Nordic Ski Club
Steep Dreams Ski Mountaineering Festival
Taking place February 28-March 1, this festival is a celebration of skiing and mountaineering. Test your skills in competitions and races, but keep in mind that it’s not only the competition that will be fierce. The second day sees teams of two facing some of the most intimidating terrain of Kicking Horse and the Dogtooth Range! Details
Where: Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, 1500 Kicking Horse Trail; 250-439-5425
Eagle’s Eye Dinner Series – Valentine’s Date Night
Treat your sweetheart to Valentine’s Day like you’ve never experienced before – at 7,700 feet! You’ll be dining on a specially curated meal perfect for the special day. Eagle’s Eye is “Canada’s most elevated dining experience,” and taking the gondola up the mountain will surely put you in the romantic mood. Details
Where: Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, 1500 Kicking Horse Trail; 250-439-5425
Live Kicks Series
The Live Kicks lineup from Kicking Horse Culture showcases Canadian and international talent in the fields of music, performance, and theatre. And, there is always something going on! Visit the website to get the details on such events like Coco Love Acorn, In the Dark, and Snow King’s Masque Parade. Details
Where: Kicking Horse Culture, 516 9 Ave N Golden; 250-344-6186
Satisfy your craving
Purcell Coffee
Where: 251 9 Ave, Golden; 250344-6363
The Golden Taps Pub
Taps is a favourite for locals and tourists alike. Great food, great drinks, and a great atmosphere to relax and spend time with your crew. Check out the website to see what nights showcase live music, but grab a table early as the place fills up fast! Details
Where: 505 9 Ave, Golden; 250-344-7155
Whitetooth Brewing Company
With a wide variety of beer on tap and brewing in the back, Whitetooth will help you find your next favourite to toast with. Check out the tasting room to try their delicious varieties and to fill your growler. They’re all about getting beer lovers together to talk about beer and mountain adventures, so it’s perfect after a day on the slopes. Details
Where: 623 8 Ave, Golden; 250-344-2838
Treat Yourselves this Winter
Purcell Wellness Mobile Massage
Cross Country Ski + Yoga Retreat
Can’t choose between a sporty or a relaxing vacation? Retreat Golden has the answer. This retreat, taking place January 16-19, combines both – and throws in massage, personal chef, deluxe accommodation, and rentals. Book now before space runs out. Details
Photo Credit: Retreat Golden
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