Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge is an iconic feature of Golden in British Columbia. Itβs the perfect spot for photos, picnics, events, or just taking in the views.
When you visit Golden in British Columbia, the one thing you shouldnβt miss on your itinerary is visiting the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge.
Itβs located downtown with restaurants, nice flat walking paths along the Kicking Horse River, picnic tables and many events during summer.
Here are 10 things you should know about Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge.
Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge
1. Itβs the longest bridge in Canada
To be exact β itβs the longest freestanding timber frame bridge in Canada. It was built in 2001 by volunteers from Timber Frames Guild from all around the world. The bridge is 46 meters (150 feet) long and was built across the Kicking Horse River. The bridge was built with a Swiss design to honour the legacy of Swiss guides.
2. Matching colours
The beautiful green-coloured roof matches the Kicking Horse River if you visit at the right time (definitely not after rain).
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3. Outdoor activities
Both sides of the bridge have paths built along the Kicking Horse River, where you can walk, run, or bike. If you head towards the 10th Ave N bridge, you can make an 800-meter-long loop.
4. Free parking
Parking downtown is usually easy. 9 Ave N, where most restaurants are, might be busy, so if youβd like to park close to the bridge, drive to the end of 8th Ave N. There are 10 free parking spots with a 2-hour limit.
5. Visit Riverhouse Tavern
The Riverhouse Tavern is located just across the bridge at Spirit Square. They offer good food and drinks and the most stunning views of the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge and the mountains behind.
6. Free washrooms
Wherever youβre visiting in Golden, you can count on the accessible washrooms at Spirit Square. Theyβre open daily until 8 pm.
7. Picnic and murals
If you walk west from the bridge on either side of the river, there are picnic tables along the river and several murals.
8. New riverwalk
A newly built part of the river walk was built along the river when you go east from Spirit Square. I recommend visiting the Golden Bakery & Deli during your walk and taking a slight detour to Golden Dollar Store (403 9 Ave N) for beautiful mountain souvenirs.
9. Farmerβs Market
Farmerβs Market runs at Spirit Square from mid-June to October every Wednesday from 10 am to 3 pm. Itβs a beautiful event with local musicians, activities for kids, and local vendors. I enjoyed the fresh pastry, herbs, and drawing with chalk with my son.
10. The quietest at night
While the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge is a beautiful work of art any time of the day, you can also visit it at night. Youβll be accompanied only by the sound of the river while you stroll across the gently lit bridge.
Where to stay in Golden
The beautiful mountain town of Golden offers accommodations in cabins, chalets, lodges, and hotels. Some are more secluded, such as the glamping at Camp Moose Trail, and some are centrally located downtown for the best access to amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and bars.
Since youβre visiting a mountain town, why not have a mountain view right from your accommodation? Here are my best recommendations:
Budget pick: Maryβs Motel
Located downtown, Maryβs Motel is a few minutes from the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge, the grocery store, the brewery, and all the restaurants. Weβve stayed here a few times and enjoyed having a kitchenette/kitchen, the pool & hot tub, and mountain views.
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Value pick: Travelodge by Wyndham Golden Sportsman Lodge
Travelodge is a great place to stay, especially if youβre visiting with kids. They have an indoor pool with a slide, hot tub, sauna, and a picnic area with a volleyball net. Included continental breakfast will make your morning easier and ready to enjoy the day.
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Luxury pick: Deer Ridge Bed & Breakfast
This is the highest-rated accommodation in Golden. The beautiful property has an outdoor hot tub, a picnic area, and mountain views. You can enjoy the included breakfast at your suite and make other meals in the kitchenette.
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Helpful resources for your trip to Golden
Hiking, biking & water activities
- Mount 7: How to enjoy Golden’s iconic mountain
- Cedar Lake in Golden, BC: Everything You Need to Know
- Visiting Canyon Creek in Golden
Animal encounters
Fun adrenaline activities
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