A Guide to Exploring Golden, British Columbia

 

Nestled in the glorious lap of the Canadian Rockies and enveloped by six national parks, Golden truly lives up to its name. Because of its location, it attracts visitors from adjacent provinces and even big cities such as Calgary, which is only a three-hour drive away.

The town itself harbors a small population of 4000 and boasts several attractions within its bounds that attest to its scenic beauty and small-town charm. Here’s what should be on your list of things to do when in Golden, British Columbia.

What to do

Kick off your Golden adventure at Canada’s longest freestanding timber-frame bridge–the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge. This bridge spans the eponymous Kicking Horse River, where you can also partake in whitewater rafting activities. Along similar lines is the Golden Skybridge, a sweeping bridge in the Columbia Valley that cuts through the rugged wilderness of the Rocky and Purcell mountain ranges. 

Golden is also the starting point for numerous major Canadian parks, including Banff, Jasper, and Kootenay. While visiting these parks requires a vacation in and of itself, you can make a day trip to Burges and James Gadsden Provincial Park, which is located northwest of Golden's city core. From the park, you can experience the snow-capped splendor of the Rockies as well as the unique and diverse species of the Columbia wetlands.

Cultural Entertainment in Golden

Aside from Golden’s outdoor getaways, Golden’s quaint small-town atmosphere also promises a smattering of local gems ideal for the culturally-inclined traveler. 

The Golden BC Museum, which opened in 1974, provides visitors with an insight into the life and history of Golden BC's indigenous natives as well as the Swiss Guides of the Canadian Pacific Railway, who were among the first residents here. A plethora of images, sepia-toned calendars, newspapers, and even historic family files bear witness to Golden's illustrious past.

Continue your cultural education at the Art Gallery of Golden-Kicking Horse Culture, which displays handmade souvenirs and artworks by over 100 regional artists.

Lastly, schedule a night of musical fun at the Golden Civic Centre, which proudly presents some of the best performances that Golden’s cultural community has to offer. The Great Hall at the center has previously featured concerts by artists such as Ziggy Marley and Steve Earle, among others. 

Where to Eat

Golden's food culture, like its attractions, is diverse and exciting. Visit Wolf's Den, a local favorite that serves handcrafted comforts within a historic log cabin, for a more informal experience. Burgers, fries, and gravy are popular choices here, and you can wash it all down with a beer. If you wish to enjoy views of the Rockies with your lunch, choose terrace seating. 

Jita's Cafe, a wonderfully friendly fusion food cafe that serves everything from Indian curries and wraps to tacos, coffee, and pastries in a relaxing ambiance, is another casual Golden favorite. 

Fancier options include Eleven22, an art-adorned restaurant that serves creative meals with libations in upscale surroundings, and the Whitetooth Bistro that serves elegant contemporary fare with mountain views. 

Author Name Advaita Raut