Trail Running in Golden, BC
Golden offers hundreds of kilometres of trail running terrain, from riverside paths in town to high alpine routes in two national parks, including Yoho National Park, more than 100 km accessible directly from town on foot, with more within an hour's drive.
In town, the Rotary Trail offers 14 km of mostly flat, double-wide natural-surface trail along the Columbia and Kicking Horse rivers, passing the local high school's 400 metre track.
Plan Your Run
There are many ways to find information on running trails to help you plan and get the most out of your trip to Golden. Take a look at the digital trail map or visit the Golden Visitor Centre at 1000 Trans-Canada Highway, which is open daily during the summer months with friendly welcoming information counsellors and resources.
Please note: A Parks Pass is required if you are planning to run in the national parks. Passes can be purchased at the Golden Visitor Centre.
Recreate Responsibly
When we leave our community, we become guests of another. Being a good guest means respecting the land and people to create a positive experience for yourself, the community, and the wildlife that you visit. Please recreate responsibly:
- Remove plants, animals & mud from boots, bikes, gear, pets & vehicle.
- Clean your gear before entering & leaving the recreation site.
- Stay on designated trails.
Wildlife Safety on the Trail
Golden sits in active bear country, home to both black bears and grizzlies, so wildlife safety matters on every run. Make noise on blind corners and through dense brush, carry bear spray, and consider running with others, especially on quieter alpine trails. Store food properly if you’re combining a run with a picnic or camp stay. The same guidance already applies to Golden’s hiking trails, which share the same terrain and wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to trail run in Golden’s national parks?
Yes. A Parks Pass is required for running in Yoho and Glacier National Parks, available at the Golden Visitor Centre.
Is there flat, beginner-friendly trail running in Golden?
Yes. The Rotary Trail offers 14 km of mostly flat, double-wide trail along the Columbia and Kicking Horse rivers.
How much trail running terrain is there in Golden, BC?
More than 100 km is accessible directly from town on foot, with more trails within an hour’s drive in Yoho and Glacier National Parks.
Where can I get trail maps or information before running in Golden?
Visit the Golden Visitor Centre at 1000 Trans-Canada Highway, open daily through the summer, or check the digital trail map.
Is there a running track in Golden, BC?
Yes. The Rotary Trail passes the local high school, which has a 400 metre running track.
Is Golden trail running country home to bears?
Yes. Golden is active bear country, home to both black bears and grizzlies. Encounters are rare, but make noise, carry bear spray, and consider running with others.