Golden, BC: At the Heart of Six National Parks.
Golden as the Base for the Canadian Rockies National Parks
Golden, BC, is a mountain town in the Canadian Rockies and one of the only places in Canada where six national parks sit within driving distance. Yoho and Glacier are both under 30 minutes away. Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Mount Revelstoke are all within two hours. Together they offer hiking trails, waterfalls, heritage sites, and lakes across more than 20,000 square kilometres of protected wilderness.
Each of the six parks offers something distinct. Yoho National Park is known for Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, and the Burgess Shale fossil beds. Glacier National Park centres on Rogers Pass, one of the most significant mountain passes in Canadian history and is filled with incredible hiking. Banff National Park, Canada's first national park, is accessible from Golden via the Trans-Canada Highway. Jasper National Park to the north is Canada's largest Rocky Mountain park. Kootenay National Park combines mountain scenery with the Radium Hot Springs. Mount Revelstoke National Park, the closest park to the west, is known for its wildflower meadows and old-growth rainforest.
A Parks Canada day pass or annual Discovery Pass is required to enter most of these parks and can be purchased at the Golden Visitor Centre before you set out.
Kicking Horse Lodging
- Guest rooms and multi-room suites
- Full kitchens in suites
- Prime on-mountain location
Moberly Lodge
- Authentic Canadian Log Lodge
- Private cabins & ensuite lodge rooms
- Peaceful Mountain Setting
Prestige Golden Hotel
- 100% Smoke Free
- Deluxe Rooms, Kitchenettes & Theme Suites
- Indoor Pool & Hot Tub
Frequently Asked Questions About Golden's National Parks
How many national parks are near Golden, BC?
Golden, BC is surrounded by six national parks: Yoho, Glacier, Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Mount Revelstoke. No other town in Canada sits within driving distance of six national parks, which makes Golden a unique basecamp for exploring the Canadian Rockies and Columbia Mountains.
How far are the national parks from Golden, BC?
Yoho National Park is approximately 25 kilometres east of Golden, roughly a 20-minute drive. Glacier National Park is approximately 60 kilometres west, around 45 minutes. Banff National Park is approximately 130 kilometres east, about 90 minutes. Kootenay National Park is accessible via Highway 93 South from the Banff junction. Jasper National Park is approximately 360 kilometres northeast. Mount Revelstoke National Park is approximately 150 kilometres west, around 90 minutes.
Do you need a Parks Pass to visit the national parks near Golden?
Yes. A Parks Canada day pass or annual Discovery Pass is required to enter Yoho, Glacier, Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Mount Revelstoke National Parks. Passes can be purchased online at Parks Canada's website or in person at the Golden Visitor Centre before you set out.
What is the best national park to visit from Golden, BC?
The best park depends on what you are looking for. Yoho National Park is closest and is known for Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, and the Burgess Shale. Glacier National Park is ideal for mountaineering and backcountry hiking around Rogers Pass. Banff National Park offers the most developed visitor infrastructure, including the Town of Banff and Lake Louise. For a quieter experience, Kootenay and Mount Revelstoke are less crowded and equally scenic.
Can you visit multiple national parks in one trip from Golden?
Yes. Golden's central location makes it possible to visit two or three national parks in a single day. Yoho and Glacier are both within an hour in opposite directions along the Trans-Canada Highway. A longer day trip east reaches Banff and Kootenay. Most visitors use Golden as a multi-day base and dedicate a day to each park or park combination.