Golden

Golden sits at the confluence of the Kicking Horse River and the Columbia River in a valley framed by the Purcell Mountains to the west and the Rocky Mountains to the east. The main street runs parallel to the railway line, connecting shops, lodgings, and restaurants in a compact layout that spans a few blocks.

The settlement emerged in the 1880s with the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway and was formally incorporated as a town in 1957. Timber and mineral transport shaped the early economy before tourism gained importance in the second half of the 20th century.

The town takes its name from an early gold rush in the 19th century and now serves as a gateway to several mountain passes. Local communities often gather in cafés along the main street, where hikers and skiers share stories and organize gear for upcoming trips.

The town sits along Highways 1 and 95, making it easy for visitors to reach by car or bus. Most shops and services are located along the main street, which makes exploring on foot manageable on mild days.

The bridge over the Kicking Horse River offers a clear view of the current flowing through the valley and merging with the calmer waters of the Columbia. On sunny days, the peaks of the surrounding mountains are often visible early in the morning while fog still covers the lower valley sections.

Location: Columbia-Shuswap Regional District

Inception: 1957

Elevation above the sea: 800 m

Website: https://golden.ca

GPS coordinates: 51.30190,-116.96700

Latest update: December 5, 2025 16:33