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The Canadian Rockies are full of outdoor adventures, stunning vistas, and quaint mountain towns. We love touring the area, and one of our favorite places to stop is Golden, BC. Despite its small size, this town is full of culture and activities. And with the recent addition of the Golden Skybridge, visiting Golden is even more appealing!
I love spending time out in the wilderness, enjoying beautiful mountain views, and getting my adrenaline pumping. And when you visit the Golden Skybridge, you can experience all three! When we went, we were impressed with the views and overall experience. But it really isn’t something you can put into words – you must try it for yourself!
So if you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Golden, BC, look no further than the Skybridge.
However, when I came here, I wished I had known certain things beforehand – which is exactly why I created this list. Below, I’ll explain everything you need to know before visiting the Golden Skybridge so you can plan a perfect day.
- 1. About the Golden Skybridge
- 2. Where is the Golden Skybridge?
- 3. How much does it cost to visit the Golden Skybridge?
1. About the Golden Skybridge
The Golden Skybridge is located in Golden, a small British Columbian town of only about 4,000 people in southeastern BC. This Rocky Mountain town has a golden location (see what I did there), being in the middle of six stunning Canadian National Parks. As such, both the town of Golden and the Skybridge are some of the best places to visit in British Columbia.
The Golden Skybridge is Canada’s tallest suspension bridge and a relatively new attraction (opening in spring 2021). While the bridges use modern engineering, the surrounding nature feels untouched. The Skybridge is right in the Columbia Valley, with amazing views of the mountains. So if you want to stretch your legs and explore the wilderness, this is a great way to do it.
But the Golden Skybridge isn’t just a bridge – it’s an entire adventure park. There are two suspension bridges, a kids’ play park, a roller coaster, a climbing wall, and activities from ziplining to axe throwing. While it’s great for families, all ages can have a fantastic time.
The Skybridge really puts this small town on the map and is a must-see destination if you’re passing through the area!
Related Read: The Skybridge makes a wonderful road trip destination! So if you’re driving here from the west, check out these other stops between Vancouver and Golden, BC. And if you’re coming from the east, read about the best stops between Calgary and Golden or the drive from Edmonton and Kelowna.
2. Where is the Golden Skybridge?
The Golden Skybridge is located in the town of Golden, right in the Columbia Valley and surrounded by mountains.
It’s just a 5 km (3 mile) drive from downtown, making it the perfect pitstop when traveling through the city. Just take a 2-minute detour off TransCanada Highway 1, and head up Golden Donald Upper Road to reach the Skybridge entrance.
There’s lots of parking on site for both cars and large RVs, making the Skybridge accessible to all travelers.
It also makes a fun day trip from nearby cities. If you’re staying in Revelstoke, BC, it’ll take about 2-hours to drive the 149 km (93 miles) to the Golden Skybridge. If you’re coming from one of the hotels in Banff, it’s a 137 km (85 mile) drive which also takes around 2 hours.
3. How much does it cost to visit the Golden Skybridge?
The price for the Golden Skybridge varies based on whether you plan to do any of the additional activities available on-site. There are 4 packages available: General Admission, Adventure Pass, Golden Hour General Admission, and Golden Hour Adventure Pass.
General Admission
The basic general admission includes entrance to the two suspension bridges, the Canyon Ridge walking trails, and the kids’ play park.
If this is what you’re looking for, you can buy your Golden Skybridge tickets online beforehand. The cost is $42 CAD for adults and $27 CAD for children (6-15 years), and kids under 6 are free.
We always love booking online with Viator because their cancellation policies are the best, their pricing includes all taxes and fees, and they have a buy-now-pay-later program.
Just to let you know, admission tickets are valid for one entry only, and there are no re-entries into the park. If you need to leave and return for any reason, you must purchase a new ticket, so be sure to bring everything you need!
Adventure Pass
If you would like to do the Sky Zipline, ride the Rail Rider Mountain Coaster, try axe throwing, take on the Canyon Edge challenge course, or try the climbing wall, you will need to pay extra.
The Adventure Pass includes access to all of these activities as well as admission to the suspension bridges for $72 CAD for adults and $63 CAD for kids.
Unfortunately, this option is not available on Viator, but can be purchased directly on the Golden Skybridge site. Bear in mind, you’ll need to choose an entry time for the Adventure Pass when booking. So while you get to do more, you’ll have less flexibility when planning.
Golden Hour General Admission and Adventure Pass
With Golden Hour tickets, you can enter the park after 6 pm between June 24 – September 4 and on weekends after 6 pm only from September 5 – October 9.
Due to the shorter time in the park, these tickets are discounted. General Admission costs $32 CAD per adult and $20 per child, while the Adventure Pass costs $64 CAD for adults and $56 for kids. You can purchase these tickets through the Golden Skybridge website.
4. Do you need to purchase tickets in advance?
While you can purchase same-day tickets, the Skybridge gets really busy, particularly in peak summer months. I highly recommend booking your tickets ahead of time to secure your spot.
If you are considering going but are not positive, I highly recommend booking your tickets with Viator. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty and secure your spot with a buy-now-pay-later plan, so there are no risks. This was the option we chose, and it gave us peace of mind knowing we had some flexibility!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here!
5. When is the best time to visit the Golden Skybridge?
The best time to visit the Golden Skybridge is on a clear day when you’ll have the best visibility to see the area’s beauty. The park is only open seasonally between mid-May and mid-October.
If you want to avoid crowds, the best time would be in the spring or fall months when tourism is significantly lower. Visiting in early June or September, and planning your trip for a weekday rather than a weekend, will give you the best chance of avoiding crowds.
One of my favorite times to visit is during golden hour. Starting June 24th, you benefit from discounted admission rates if entering after 6 pm. Especially if you are a photographer, this is the best time to see the valley with a romantic glow from the sunset.
While I recommend carving out at least 2 hours to explore the area, be sure to note that the last entrance is 30 minutes before closing, which is between 6 pm – 8 pm (depending on the day and time of year). If you’re planning to visit late in the day, check the Golden Skybridge’s online schedule for closing times.
Related Read: If photography is your thing, check out the most Instagrammable places in nearby Banff National Park!
6. When is the Golden Skybridge open?
The Golden Skybridge is a great activity for warmer weather and clear days. Opening mid-May to mid-October, the hours vary based on the time of year you visit.
From May 12 to June 23 and September 5 to October 9, the park is open 10 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday, and 10 am to 8 pm on weekends. Between June 24 and September 4, the park has its longest hours being open between 9 am and 8 pm daily.
7. What are the highlights at the Golden Skybridge?
The forest walk
Included in the price of your entry, you’ll get access to the suspension bridges found along a one-way forest walk. The forest walk is a total of 3 km (1.8 miles) on a one-way route across bridges and through lush forests. This walk is relatively easy but does require navigating a forest trail with stumps and uneven terrain. There are multiple viewpoints along the way to take in all the beautiful vistas.
While this is a one-way forest loop, you can do it as many times as needed to soak in all the sights. Before you cross the suspension bridges, you’ll see a Treetop Village Play Park. This is an excellent place for kids to play and is included in the general admission price.
The view from the bridges
The best reason to visit these stunning bridges is to see the rugged outback views.
To get these kinds of wilderness vistas in other parts of the Rocky Mountains, you’d have to hike far into the outback, which could take some time and energy.
But at the Golden Skybridge, you’ll be treated to gorgeous mountain views looking at both the Rocky and Purcell Mountain ranges. You’ll also have an impressive 200-foot (61-meter) waterfall view and will cross over Hospital Creek on a suspension bridge.
The suspension bridges
I love a good suspension bridge and at this park, you get to enjoy two which are both found along the forest walk loop.
The first suspension bridge is the longest and highest, sitting at 426 feet (130 meters) high and 492 feet (150 meters) long. The second suspension bridge isn’t quite as elevated, sitting at 262 feet (80 meters) high but a similar length at 460 feet (140 meters) long.
Both bridges deliver stunning views of the canyon. When I crossed them, I also got a rush while looking down and feeling the bridges sway below my feet. It’s a little scary but completely safe!
8. What are the other things to do at the Golden Skybridge?
There is much more than just suspension bridges available in this park. If you’re looking to do more activities, I recommend purchasing an Adventure Pass. It’ll save you money and allow you access to all the additional activities in the park.
Be sure to note that this pass requires you to book an arrival time when purchasing. Unfortunately when we visited, these additional activities weren’t open so we couldn’t participate but they looked like a lot of fun!
Canyon Swing
One of the newest experiences, this one isn’t for anyone afraid of heights! But luckily, you can share the fun (or fear!) with a buddy since two people fit on this swing! You’ll swing right over the canyon edge and go back and forth like a pendulum overtop of some incredible views.
The canyon swing was built with custom pieces ordered from New Zealand and it’s definitely on my list to try next time I’m back here!
Canyon Edge Challenge Course
This is a treetop rope course where you can challenge your agility skills 40 feet (12 meters) above the ground. There are three different route options depending on the difficulty level you’re looking for. You’ll be harnessed in as you navigate across the various obstacles in the air. This course is designed to test both your nerves and your balance – a true test of agility under pressure!
To participate in the Canyon Edge Challenge Course, you must be at least 6 years old. The harnesses have height and weight restrictions requiring you to be between 60-250 lbs (27-113 kg), and at least 5 ft 1 in (158 cm) with your fingertips stretched overhead.
Sky Zipline
If you’re looking to enjoy the beautiful aerial views, you can take on the 1,000-foot (305-meter) zipline, which is suspended 500 feet (152 meters) above the canyon floor. I love ziplining so I was really disappointed we couldn’t do it as it looked like it was so much fun and the views would be incredible.
I also love that there are four lines side by side. If it’s open, you should definitely try it out with your friends, and zip down together!
Zipliners must be at least 6 years old to ride and between 60-250 lbs (27-113 kg). With fingertips stretched overhead, the minimum height requirement is 5 ft 1 in (158 cm) to ensure a secure fit in the harness.
Related Read: Golden isn’t the only place you can go ziplining! Read more about the top ziplining tours in Whistler, BC!
Axe throwing
Axe throwing is super popular, and we’re not surprised since it’s so much fun! You can practice your aim by tossing an axe at the wooden bullseye.
While we haven’t tried axe throwing here, it was a fun activity in Kelowna and Whistler, and let me tell you – it’s a good time! You’ll feel like a lumberjack as you release your energy and practice your aim.
The axe-throwing course is right beside the plaza. There are four lanes side-by-side, allowing you to challenge your friends and see who has the best throw. This activity is open to guests 16 years of age and older.
Climbing wall
This 28-foot (8.5-meter) rock climbing wall blends into the wilderness. It’s designed to mimic natural rock features to give you practice for an authentic rock-climbing experience. You’ll find easy, medium, and challenging route options to suit all levels.
The climbing wall is in the middle of a viewing area, with room for six climbers to go at a time. You’ll be harnessed in with a belay system and helmet to keep you safe, but you will want to wear secure, closed-toed shoes.
Mountain Coaster
Inspired by the authentic railway history of the area, the RailRider Mountain Coaster is one of the most unique things to do in this park.
Similar to Revelstoke’s Pipe Mountain Coaster, you’ll travel 3,375 feet (1,029 meters) through this outdoor course, descending a total of 240 feet (73 meters) vertically down the mountain. The 5-minute ride has you soaring through the beautiful natural landscape. But don’t worry – you’ll be harnessed into a seat that typically holds one adult at a time (or one child and one adult) ensuring your safety the whole time.
The RailRider Mountain Coaster has a minimum age requirement of 3 years old, and you must be 3 feet (91 cm) tall to ride. Kids between 3-8 years old require an adult (16+) to ride with them. There are also weight and height restrictions, with a combined cart weight being 310 lbs (113 kg). The driver must also be at least 4 ft 4 inches tall (132 cm).
9. How long and difficult is the walk on the Golden Skybridge?
You can expect a 3 km (1.9 mile) one-way loop around the suspension bridges. Each loop takes at least 40 minutes to walk. However, you’ll probably stop frequently to snap photos, adding to your time.
There is no limit on how many times you can make the loop, so if you’d like more from the experience, feel free to make the loop a second time!
The loop is relatively easy to complete in terms of exertion levels, but you’ll be walking through uneven forest terrain. As such, I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
10. How long does it take to visit the Golden Skybridge?
You can easily spend half a day visiting the Golden Skybridge, depending on the activities you’re interested in.
If you’re only interested in the suspension bridge, I’d recommend buying your ticket in advance and carving out at least 1-2 hours for the experience. It’ll take much longer if you opt for the Adventure Pass and do all the additional activities here. There is also a restaurant on-site, the Village Grill, where you can spend some time fueling up for a great day.
11. Who is the Golden Skybridge suitable for?
The Golden Skybridge is a great day trip for the whole family! When we visited, we saw all types of groups: friends, families, and couples.
There are no age restrictions to the Skybridge, in fact, kids 5 and under are free to enter. Not only that, there is a kids’ play place on-site that families can enjoy. It’s important to note that while the suspension bridges are family-friendly, there are age, height, and weight restrictions for some of the additional activities, such as the zipline and Canyon Edge Challenge Course.
To access the suspension bridges, you’ll have to walk along a one-way 3 km (1.8 mile) forest trail, so you’ll need to be fit enough. The suspension bridges are up to 426 feet (130 meters) high, so they are not ideal for those with a fear of heights. If you are too scared of heights or worried about your physical ability, there are still many other great viewing areas in the park to enjoy (while safely on firm ground).
12. Facilities at the Golden Skybridge
The Golden Skybridge is an excellent activity for those looking to stretch their legs and enjoy a nice day outdoors. It’s the perfect stop if you’re driving between popular areas such as Banff and Revelstoke. There is a large parking lot on-site with plenty of parking, picnic benches, and an off-leash dog park.
Once entering the park, there is a gift shop selling photos of the Skybridge and a restaurant called the Village Grill. You’ll also find a playground here so kids can get all their energy out. There are on-site toilets, many viewing areas, and benches around the park.
If you’re walking along the forest loop, there are also information boards that can be fun to read.
13. Is the Golden Skybridge safe?
The Golden Skybridge, like other popular BC suspension bridges such as the Capilano Suspension Bridge, is built with reinforced steel cables. The bridge has been engineered with safety at the forefront and is a perfectly safe activity that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Although you aren’t harnessed in, there are tall railings to hold onto as you cross. Just so you know, the bridge can get a bit slippery when wet.
As it is a suspension bridge, you should expect swaying as you cross. While this will certainly get your adrenaline pumping, the movement is very slight and not dangerous. Kids should walk across the bridge and not be held over the railings.
14. Is the Golden Skybridge pet friendly?
The Golden Skybridge is not pet friendly, with the exception of service animals. While the Skybridge isn’t safe for your pets, there is a great off-leash area for dogs next to the parking lot.
15. Is the Golden Skybridge wheelchair friendly?
Unfortunately, as the Golden Skybridge will have you traveling through uneven forest terrain and on narrow suspension bridges, it is not fully accessible.
If you have a motorized wheelchair, the Canyon Trail, the Adventure Hub, the washrooms, and the Skybridge can be attempted but might be very challenging to navigate. Gravel and uneven terrain make it difficult to traverse in a wheelchair.
16. What should you bring to the Golden Skybridge?
The Golden Skybridge is open rain or shine between May and early October. It’s important to look at the weather and dress accordingly. I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes since the forest trail loop is 3 km (1.9 miles) in length. You’ll also need comfortable, closed-toed shoes if you plan to do extra activities, such as ziplining or rock climbing.
When I visited, I wore comfy walking shoes and a light jacket (as pictured above), which was enough for a sunny day. However, as you’ll be in the mountains, I recommend bringing a sweater or wearing layers. If you find yourself here on a moody day, a rain jacket will come in handy.
And since this is a fun family activity, bring your camera to capture the moments!
17. Is the Golden Skybridge worth it?
In short, yes! We had a great time at the Golden Skybridge and recommend the experience to anyone passing through the area. If you are driving between Banff, Alberta, and Revelstoke, BC, it is a perfect mid-way pit stop to get out of the car and see some stunning sights.
We had a lot of fun here and noticed a wide range of ages enjoying the experience. The admission tickets are affordable, which adds to its overall value. While the additional attractions were unavailable when we visited, we still had a fantastic time. If you opt for a combo experience of ziplining and rock climbing, I think it would be even better!
Related Read: Although the Golden Skybridge is only available in warmer months, this town is still worth visiting in the winter. Read about the best things to do in Golden during the winter!
Other Activities to do While You’re in Golden
Visiting the Golden Skybridge is just one of the many fun things you can do in Golden. So if you’re wondering what else to do, here are my suggestions!
- Whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River – This is such an adrenaline rush! With Grade 3-4 rapids, it’s one of the best rivers in Canada to go rafting and I recommend this full-day tour. For $112 CAD, you will get a 5-hour experience on the river including all your equipment, a buffet lunch, and an expert guide leading the way.
- Explore Glacier National Park – Golden is surrounded by six Canadian national parks and Glacier National Park is a must-visit! It includes Rogers Pass, which is famous as part of the original Canadian Pacific Railway route that connected Canada from coast-to-coast. There are also lots of hikes including the family-friendly Hemlock Grove Boardwalk, which is a series of boardwalks through beautiful old-growth forests.
- Day trip to Banff National Park – There are so many things to do in Banff – it is the most famous town in the Rockies for a reason! Banff town is very quaint with a lot of shops and restaurants to explore. The Banff Upper Hot Springs are absolutely iconic and should be a priority to visit! Another popular attraction is the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain – the views are seriously epic!
- Visit the farmers’ market – Get a taste of the local community at the Golden Farmers Market! It’s full of vendors selling handicrafts and homemade wares. Additionally, you can purchase fresh produce, bread, meat, desserts, cheeses and so much more.
- Walk around downtown Golden – Don’t forget to explore the town itself! Downtown Golden is a quaint, historic-looking place to see. Start your exploration around 9th Avenue, which has a lot of shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
Where to Stay in Golden, BC
If you’re planning to visit the Golden Skybridge, the most convenient place to stay is in the town of Golden itself! Plus, there are plenty of other fun things to keep you entertained here.
Although it’s a small town, there are some great places to stay in Golden. Below, I’ll highlight my favorite options for all budgets.
Rondo Motel – $
The Rondo Motel is a budget option located in downtown Golden surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains. So whether you’re in your room or on the motel’s deck, you’ll be blown away by the stunning mountain views.
This motel also offers free Wi-Fi, free parking, and spacious air-conditioned suites. Select rooms feature a kitchenette with a microwave and fridge. While staying at Rondo Motel, you have access to various outdoor activities like kayaking and horse riding. There are fun waterside activities available exclusively on-site, as well. For guests who love exploring local cafes and restaurants, you will find a decent selection within walking distance of the motel.
A night in a Standard Queen Room with a view of the mountains starts at around $68 CAD – which we feel is a great price for the value! To take advantage of this deal, you can check availability and book online here.
The Cache Hotel and Lodgings – $$
The Cache Hotel and Lodgings is the perfect base to stay when exploring the area. It’s one of the most historic hotels in town, and is centrally located and tastefully updated with the latest conveniences and amenities.
All of the rooms have been newly remodeled and have free Wi-Fi, as well as coffee makers, mini-fridges, and windows that open to the stunning views of Golden. If you prefer a more modern take to the rooms, you can book the Deluxe Queen Rooms with a sofa bed, seating area, and extra storage room for all of your things!
Room rates start at $162 CAD per night. If you want something central and comfortable, book your stay at The Cache Hotel online here!
Golden Acres Mountain Lodge – $$$
The Golden Acres Mountain Lodge is my favorite luxury choice. Located just outside of Golden town, it’s surrounded by nature and the perfect 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 directly from the property. The hosts are known for their hospitality, and make an excellent breakfast!
With prices starting at $255 CAD, this luxury accommodation is truly it. So if you want to experience the ultimate comfort in Golden, book your stay at the Golden Acres Mountain Lodge here!
Renting a Car in British Columbia
If you’re arriving in British Columbia via plane, then I can’t recommend getting a rental car enough. British Columbia is a large province and traveling between the best places to visit in BC requires transport. Although you can use public transport on some occasions, this means your trip will not only require more time but more planning.
Car rental in Canada isn’t relatively cheap, but it’s not that expensive either, especially if you get a budget car. The cheapest car with a pick-up and drop-off in different locations is around $100 CAD per day. The price does vary though, depending on the time of year. For car rentals, I use the website Discover Cars. It’s a search engine with lots of deals with good customer service. In fact, I’ve used Discover Cars all over the world, including in Chile, New Zealand, and Australia.
Another popular option is to rent a campervan or motorhome (only for the brave in winter.) Using Motorhome Republic, you can search hundreds of deals across multiple companies to pick a great vehicle and the cheapest price. Having a motorhome is a stunning way to see Canada, and using crown land and campsites, you can often camp for free or very cheap in the most beautiful places imaginable!
Thanks for reading!
The Golden Skybridge is a great way to immerse yourself in all the natural beauty of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. We had such a great time visiting the park and highly recommend a visit to anyone looking for fun things to do in Golden, BC!
I hope this guide has helped answer all your questions about visiting the park. And if you’re traveling through more parts of the country, read my other blogs about Canada here! Thanks for reading, and we hope your time at the Skybridge is absolutely golden.