Kicking Horse Mountain may be best known for its adrenaline-pumping snow sports and slopes that challenge even the most seasoned skiers, but that's only the beginning. This gem, nestled in the Canadian Rockies near Golden, has far more to offer beyond the slopes. Whether you're seeking heart-pounding adventures, cultural exploration, a foodie's feast, or just a relaxing winter wonderland escape, you'll find plenty of non-skiing delights at Kicking Horse. Join us as we explore the best 10!
Have a Snow (Play) Day
If you like the idea of being outside on the mountain but don't necessarily want to ski or snowboard, tubing is a perfect alternative. Kicking Horse Resort has an impressive Tube Zone, where every member of the family can enjoy a classic snow day. No special skills are required, and tubes are available at the tubing lanes. Young children can even ride with a parent, and helmets are provided for those who want them.
Try Snowshoeing
For something slower-paced that will still get your heart rate up, snowshoeing is one of the best Golden activities in the winter. The vast snowy landscapes that surround Kicking Horse provide a picture-perfect backdrop for exploring on snowshoes, and the variety of terrain means it's approachable even with no prior experience.
On Kicking Horse Mountain itself, there are two snowshoeing loops just off Palliser Road: one 2 kilometers and one 4 kilometers. Nearby, you can also head to Cedar Lake, where the Moonraker Trail System offers a network of several individual trails. Kicking Horse Lodging guests can take advantage of free snowshoe rentals, one of the perks of the Stay | Well Amenities program.
Watch a Movie at Golden Cinema
Escape the cold and relax indoors with a movie at Golden Cinema. It's a cozy option for poor weather days, or when you just want a break from the elements. Unwind and catch up on the latest blockbusters in this charming small theater.
Take a Day Trip to Yoho National Park
Just a short (and incredibly scenic) 40-minute drive from Kicking Horse Lodging, Yoho National Park makes an excellent day trip adventure. The landscape is somehow even more stunning when it's blanketed with snow, and the park has a huge variety of trails suitable for winter. Hike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe, with options starting at just 900 meters (0.55 miles) and including frozen waterfalls and ponds.
Rent Snowmobiles
For an adrenaline rush that doesn't involve being on your own two feet, consider renting snowmobiles or booking a guided snowmobile adventure. One of the reasons Kicking Horse has such great runs is because the entire Golden region has epic terrain—and slicing through it on a snowmobile is one of the best ways to explore.
A handful of local outfitters provide both guided tours and rentals, including White N' Wild Adventures, Rocky Mountain Riders, and Golden Snowmobile Rentals.
Catch a Live Performance with Kicking Horse Culture
Immerse yourself in Golden's local arts scene by catching a live performance with Kicking Horse Culture at theGolden Civic Centre right downtown. Whether it's a concert, play, stand-up comedy night, or community event, this organization hosts a variety of performances throughout the winter. It's an excellent way to connect with the community, and it's also one of the most popular Golden attractions for enjoying live entertainment without braving the cold.
Get Some Retail Therapy
Shopping provides the perfect solution for what to do in Golden when you want some downtime. Kicking Horse Mountain has a small but charming selection of shops, while downtown Golden has several boutiques, art galleries, gift shops, and book stores. On the mountain, don't miss Kicking Horse General Store, with its excellent beer and wine selection, plus tons of specialty charcuterie items.
Take a Scenic Gondola Ride
While the skiers conquer the slopes, non-skiers can still enjoy the same breathtaking views by taking a scenic ride on the gondola. The Eagle's Eye Gondola whisks you 2,347 meters (7,700 feet) to the mountain's summit, where you can marvel at panoramic vistas of the surrounding Canadian Rockies.
Please note that scenic gondola tickets, or "sightseeing tickets," must be purchased at a ticket counter or guest services. You'll also be riding with skiers and snowboarders, so be mindful of snow gear and try to avoid peak times (right when the mountain opens for the day, as well as the day's last run).
Indulge in a Spa Treatment
There's just nothing quite like a pampering spa treatment after a busy winter day, whether it was spent outdoors or indulging in some retail therapy. Golden is home to several spas that each offer a range of options for relaxation and rejuvenation, including one that provides mobile massages and another with specialty services like energy healing and breathwork.
Visit the Golden Museum
Take a fascinating journey through time with a visit to the Golden Museum, one of the top Golden attractions. Learn about the region's rich heritage, including its Indigenous roots and the significant impact the railway had on the community.
Kicking Horse Lodging is a Winter Wonderland
With an abundance of activities for both skiers and non-skiers alike, Kicking Horse Lodging is a top resort choice for a winter getaway. From heart-pounding adventures like tubing and snowmobiling to more serene experiences like snowshoeing and spa treatments, there's something for everyone.
Add to that a variety of accommodations ranging from traditional guest rooms to standalone mountain log cabins, plus our Stay | Well Amenities, and Kicking Horse Lodging is truly the best option for where to stay in Golden. It's a full-service winter wonderland! Champagne Powder Shuttle Service even provides direct shuttle transportation to the mountain from the Calgary Airport in the winter.
Make your stay a memorable one, complete with excitement, exploration, and relaxation, when you book your stay at Kicking Horse Lodging today.
