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So, you’ve heard of the Golden Skybridge, but is it actually worth the hype?
We lived in Canmore and still spend months traveling all over the Rockies every year, so we’ve enjoyed multiple visits to the Skybridge – which is actually more of an adventure park than a lone bridge, just FYI.
We do think that the Skybridge is a little on the pricey side, so if you’re going to drive through Golden and can’t decide whether or not this stop is worth it, then our honest review will help you decide. Let’s get into it!
What is the Golden Skybridge?
The Golden Skybridge is a lot more than a bridge! Actually, there are two suspension bridges here, as well as a TON of other attractions. I’m talking about walking trails, a roller coaster, a treetops rope course, a playground, a climbing wall, a ziplining course, a giant swing, and an axe-throwing center. So, I think it’s safe to say that there’s a lot to do!
I usually book tickets for the Skybridge online so that I don’t have to wait. Tickets cost $46.46 CAD on Viator (which is cheaper than the official website or gate prices) and grant admission to the bridges and walking trails, and then the additional activities, like ziplining and roller coaster rides, cost extra.
The bridges stretch over the Columbia Valley and the longer of the two is 150 meters (492 ft) long and 130 meters (427 ft) high, which is pretty tall! I actually found walking across it quite thrilling, which might sound odd, but you’ll see what I mean if you do decide to go.
The park is smack dab in the middle of what I call “national park territory.” Golden is right next to Yoho National Park, but it’s actually surrounded by six of them in total. So yes, the views are just as fantastic as you would expect!
What are the Highlights of the Golden Skybridge?
Suspension bridges
The Golden Skybridge is actually Canada’s highest suspension bridge, which I think is pretty cool! Although, as I mentioned earlier, there are two bridges, the first of which holds the record for being the tallest. You go one way over the canyon on that bridge and then come back via another one. And I must say, I did find the experience pretty magical.
Forest loop walk
I really enjoyed the 3-kilometer (1.8-mile) walk through the forest, especially because there were lots of lovely viewpoints along the way. I’m glad I took the time to do it after checking out the bridge. It’s included in your admission ticket anyway, so you may as well if you’ve got time, and it’s a great way to stretch your legs if you’re visiting Golden on a road trip!
Related Read: Speaking of road trips, check out our road trip routes (and best stops!) from Golden to Banff or Vancouver to Golden!
Railrider mountain coaster
Golden, BC has a strong railway history, which inspired the cute mountain coaster. I think it’s particularly great for kids although, to be honest, it’s pretty thrilling for adults, too! There are lots of twists and turns, and flying through the forest is super fun.
Canyon Edge Challenge Course
I don’t know about you, but I love a good rope course! There are three different levels of difficulty, so travelers of all ages and abilities can enjoy an immersive forest adventure. Again, this is especially appealing to kids, but I think that courses like this are so much fun and a great way to let off some steam mid-road trip!
Zipline course
Ziplining over a canyon? Sign me up! Dan and I have tackled all sorts of crazy ziplines on our travels and we were disappointed that it was closed when we visited, but it’s definitely on our list for next time! The 1,000-foot (305-meter) zipline zooms over the canyon and I love the fact that there are four side-by-side ziplines so groups of friends can go together.
Climbing wall
I think this climbing wall would be great to do with friends so that you could get a friendly competition going. It’s also a great workout – I always find that my whole body aches the day after a climb because you really do work every muscle! And if you’re already a rock climbing buff, you might be excited to know that the wall here was designed by Eldorado Climbing Walls, who are a pretty big deal in the world of rock climbing.
Axe throwing
Axe throwing is a uniquely Canadian pastime, although it is becoming popular in other parts of the world now, too! Dan was a bit skeptical the first time I took him, but he quickly got into it, so if you’ve never done it before then I urge you to give it a go! There are four lanes here, so you can compete alongside your travel companions and see who’s got the best aim.
Giant Canyon Swing
If you’re looking for a hair-raising adventure then the canyon swing will definitely deliver that. There’s a period of freefall before the bungee kicks in, which I can assure you gets the old adrenaline going! Plus, I think the views from the swing are absolutely beautiful.
The Village Grill
After all of that excitement, some time to chill and grab a bite to eat at the Village Grill will certainly be welcome. There’s a playground here where kids can let off steam and they had some live music on when we visited! If you’re doing a long road trip, their yummy barbecue food will help keep you going.
Book tickets for the Golden Skybridge here for the best price!
Our Experience on the Golden Skybridge
After hearing lots of hype about the Golden Skybridge, we decided to visit on a beautiful summer morning. We booked our tickets online beforehand so that we didn’t have to queue on the day, and so we pretty much breezed in and went straight onto the bridge. We were so impressed by the views, and walking across was pretty exciting because we were so high up and could see for miles.
We walked out along the first bridge and back along the second, which took us around 30-40 minutes. Of course, we could have done it faster, but this isn’t a trail you want to rush! We took our time to enjoy the walk and savor the views.
The walk is easy for most people, although there is some uphill walking involved as you cross the second suspension bridge. However, the trail is very even and we think they’ve done a great job of making it as accessible to as many people as possible.
Related Read: While you’re here check out our list of all the best things to do in Golden (we have 30 ideas!)
Is the Golden Skybridge worth it?
I really enjoyed walking across the Skybridge and loved the views, but I must admit, it’s pretty expensive for what it is. I have no regrets about doing it and think that is worth it, as long as you’re not too concerned about your budget.
If you are trying to stick to a certain budget, I think that there are better things to spend your money on in the Rockies. In my opinion, that money would be put to better use on an attraction like the Banff Gondola, which offers more spectacular views, or the Kicking Horse Scenic Gondola.
So, in short, the Skybridge is worth it if you’ve got the money to spare. However, for those on a budget, there are other viewpoints that are more deserving of your hard-earned cash!
If you do decide to visit, book Golden Skybridge tickets here to skip the line!
Other Things to do in Golden, BC
After checking out the Skybridge, there are plenty of other fun things to do in Golden, BC! Here are a few of our favorites:
- Explore downtown Golden – Downtown Golden is a quaint, historic-looking town with lots to check out! A good place to start your exploration is 9th Avenue, which has a lot of shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore. You can learn more about the city at the Visitor Centre or Golden Museum.
- Go whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse – Whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River is such an adrenaline rush. With Grade 3-4 rapids, it’s one of the best rivers in Canada to go rafting. This 5-hour rafting tour is our pick as it’s really well-rated and even includes a buffet lunch!
- Visit the Wolf Centre – While you probably don’t want to run into any in the wild, the Northern Lights Wolf Centre in Golden is an excellent location to learn about wolves and even see them.
- Marvel at Emerald Lake – Emerald Lake is located within Yoho National Park, located close to Golden, just off the Trans-Canada Highway. It is absolutely made for kayaking and canoeing, with its calm and clear waters and the color is so vivid in the summer!
- Hit the slopes at Kicking Horse Resort – Golden’s Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is a very popular ski resort in Canada, and for good reason! It’s known for the huge amounts of annual snowfall and expert terrain that will challenge even the most experienced riders. It’s a must-visit if you’re in Golden in the winter months.
Where to Stay in Golden, BC
There’s just so much to explore in the area that you might as well book a great hotel in Golden and enjoy a few days in one of Canada’s most underrated mountain towns.
There are plenty of places to stay in Golden, and when compared to nearby towns like Revelstoke and Banff, Golden hotels are generally more affordable. You can check out some of our top hotel picks below or read our full blog on where to stay in Golden!
Golden Acres Mountain Lodge – $$$
Located outside of Golden surrounded by nature, the Golden Acres Mountain Lodge is the perfect luxury escape for anybody looking for a little R&R. The rooms are best suited for couples, with king suites with private kitchenettes, a balcony, and a spa bath. There is an onsite sauna here too and hiking trails start from the property.
Rooms here start from $345 CAD per night and can be booked online here.
Glacier Mountaineer Lodge – $$
The Glacier Mountaineer Lodge is located only 50 meters from Kicking Horse Mountain resort’s chairlift – it’s just so convenient. Besides that, all rooms have mountain views and there is an onsite sauna to enjoy. You can get a room here from $161 CAD when you book through Booking.com.
Best Western Mountainview Inn – $$
This hotel is a great choice if you’re looking for something right in the heart of town! The Best Western Mountainview Inn is clean and comfortable and has all of the amenities you could want, including an indoor pool and breakfast included in the cost. Rooms start at $167 CAD and this is quite a popular hotel, so secure your room here.
Travelodge by Wyndham Golden Sportsman Lodge – $
Those on a budget can’t pass on a stay at the Travelodge in Golden. With its central location, indoor pool with a waterslide and hot tub, as well as an included breakfast, this hotel is a steal! They even have pet-friendly rooms and an outdoor picnic area with a BBQ. A room at the Travelodge starts at $116 CAD and can be booked online here.
Thanks for reading!
There you have it, our review of the Golden Skybridge. If you have the room in your budget, I say go for it and take lots of photos while you’re at it! I never get tired of the scenery in the Rockies and it’s on full display here.
While you’re planning your trip to the Rockies, check out our other blogs on BC and Alberta. From road trip guides to tips on visiting the best local attractions, we have you covered!
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