Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Kicking Horse Lodging in Golden, BC, is a prime spot for winter wildlife adventures. As the snow blankets the landscape, wildlife activity shifts, giving visitors unique opportunities to observe Golden’s diverse animal kingdom in action.
While you're here, there's no shortage of things to do—from skiing and snowboarding to cozying up after a day in the elements. But if wildlife is what you’re after, winter is a fantastic time to explore the surrounding areas and catch glimpses of local fauna in their natural habitat.
6 Places to Spot Wildlife Around Golden This Winter
Golden’s rugged, stunningly beautiful landscape is a pristine, jaw-dropping backdrop for spotting wildlife—especially when it's blanketed in glistening snow. Remember, though, while it should go without saying, it's crucial to keep a respectful distance from animals. This is just as much as for your safety as theirs.
As a general rule, if you hold your arm out in front of you with your thumb straight up, your thumb should completely cover the animal. If you can still see it, back up farther.
Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre
Wolves are some of the most elusive, fascinating wildlife species known to man. At the Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre right here in Golden, however, you get a rare up-close look at the inner workings of a real wolf pack. Don't worry, it's perfectly safe! Fiercely dedicated to wolf conservation and education, the centre offers guided, small-group interpretive tours that let you observe and learn about wolves. For visitors who want more of an in-depth look, consider booking a Walk With Wolves, a very literal "walk on the wild side!" These 1.5-hour walks allow you to walk right alongside the wolves, freely in their habitat. Both the guided tours and wolf walks are offered year-round, and the centre is less than 30 minutes from Kicking Horse Mountain.
Go on an Epic Dog Sledding Adventure
Dog sledding is arguably the best, most unforgettable way to fully immerse yourself in Golden’s winter landscapes. Several local, independently-owned outfitters offer a variety of dog sledding experiences, including options that let you try mushing yourself. Plus, of course, you'll have the opportunity to spot wildlife up close—as you fly past, gliding over the snow and ice!
Golden Adventure Tours: Two-hour tours offered in three daily time slots, travelling between Banff and Yoho National Park. Or, try Mushing 101, a 30-minute introductory class that very literally puts you in the 'driver's seat!'
Kingmik Dog Sled Tours: Three tours offered daily in the winter through Yoho National Park, which all include a meet and greet with the dog sled team
Harrison Eco Tours
While many of Harrison Eco Tours’ offerings pause during the winter (think kayaking rentals and tours), the Bald Eagle Viewing Boat Tour and Rainbow Falls Tour and Walk continue to run almost every day, year-round. This stretch of the Harrison River is home to the world's largest concentration of bald eagles! Winter is considered prime time to see them, as they flock to the area to feast on spawning salmon (which you'll also get to see on your boat ride, thanks to underwater cameras!).
Radium Hot Springs
Radium Hot Springs might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of wildlife watching but hold that thought. Both the town itself and the hot springs themselves (which share the same name) are surrounded by a designated wildlife corridor. Bighorn sheep, deer, elk, coyotes, and even wolves and mountain lions all frequent this area, making it a top location for spotting a variety of wild animals. The major bonus here is that after some intense wildlife viewing, you can relax in the mineral hot springs, soaking up their recharging warmth while surrounded by natural beauty.
BC Bird Trail
Golden sits in the Columbia Valley, near the Columbia Wetlands, a critical habitat for birds year-round. In winter, certain bird species are easier to spot due to the lack of tree cover, and you’ll have plenty of peaceful viewing points along the BC Bird Trail. The area is home to over 260 bird species, including bald eagles, so be sure to bring your binoculars and watch for seasonal residents and migratory birds alike.
Take a Day Trip to Yoho National Park
Just a 20-minute drive from Kicking Horse Lodging, Yoho National Park is a picture-perfect winter wonderland that offers exceptional outdoor adventures—wildlife spotting opportunities being one of the best. While many park services shut down in the winter, including many trails, park roads, and visitor centres, some areas of the park remain open to those prepared for the conditions. Here, you may catch sight of deer, elk, moose, or wolves. Expect heavy snow and unpredictable weather, so if you visit, come prepared to be mostly self-reliant. Before heading into the park, check which trails and roads are open on the official Parks Canada website.
Choose Kicking Horse Lodging for Your Winter Basecamp
Whether you’re hoping to spot wolves, marvel at eagles, or soak in hot springs while you try to find bighorn sheep in the distance, Golden’s winter wildlife scene has something for every nature lover. Kicking Horse Lodging is the perfect jumping-off point, with a location convenient to Golden itself, Banff, and Yoho National Park, a variety of accommodation types, and loads of cozy amenities. Book your stay today, and don't forget the binoculars!
