Northern Exposure

Whether Golden marks the beginning or the end of your trek through the Columbia Valley, know that your visit here will be time well spent. There are countless wildlife viewing opportunities to be found throughout the Columbia Wetlands; if you’re in search of an authentic birding experience, Golden is the place to be.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Rocky Mountains Golden by Mitch Winton
 Birding
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    Moberly Marsh & Burges James Gadsden Provincial Park
    Small vehicle pull-out viewing area along the Trans Canada Highway

    A critical resting and feeding area for many migratory birds, Moberly Marsh & Burges James Gadsden Provincial Park is a unique conservation area on the Pacific Flyway. This park presents excellent viewing opportunities of resident birds nesting and rearing habitats – keep your eyes open and you’ll likely spot waterfowl and songbird species, as well as raptors such as hawks, eagles and osprey.

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    Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre
    1745 Short Rd, Golden, BC

    This very special wildlife sanctuary looks after wolves who have been injured and abandoned in the region. Providing unique opportunities to get closer to these majestic creatures, Northern Lights also provides tours and interpretive information.

Northern Lights Wolf Centre by Dave Best
 Birding
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    Confluence Park
    Fisher Rd

    Located at the meeting point of two historic rivers, the Columbia and the Kicking Horse, this park’s 1.8km trail offers views of the scenic wetlands and stretches of forest that line the riverbanks. Easily accessible from downtown Golden along the Rotary Trail, the shoreline is full of songbirds with raptors perched high above.

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    Reflection Lake
    Reflection Lake Rd N

    This easy-to-access lake offers short trails and a gazebo with seating and interpretive information, making it an excellent viewing point to experience the diversity of waterfowl and landfowl against the backdrop of the Columbia Mountains.

Field Notes

Exploring the Columbia Valley Bird Trail

Nestled between the rugged Rocky and Purcell Mountains in southeast BC, the Columbia Valley offers a wild side of British Columbia’s outdoor activities, but with a good mix of relaxing serenity in the form of hot springs and luxury accommodations. Exploring the Columbia Valley Bird Trail takes you through breathtaking scenery with a plentiful amount of…
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 Cafe
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    Bluebird Cafe
    802 9th St N

    A cozy cafe featuring housemade breakfast and lunch items, fresh-baked treats such as muffins and mini pies, and organic coffee drinks. Perfect for early starts and quick grab-and-go options.

 Food
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    Big Bend Cafe
    528 9 Ave N

    A family-friendly all-day breakfast spot with an extensive menu of all the favourites. Sit inside and learn a little local history from the decor, or relax on their sunny patio.

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    Reposados
    427 9 Ave N

    Simple, healthy, and delicious tacos inspired by the flavours of Mexico with a rocky mountain twist. Especially known for their hand-crafted margaritas with house fermented syrups. They have a variety of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options.

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    Rockwater Grill and Bar
    429 9 Ave N

    This lively restaurant offers pub classics, with gluten-free and vegetarian options, as well as BC craft beer on tap. Take in the fresh air by eating on one of their two patios, or sit inside and listen to live musical guests.

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    The Golden Taps Pub
    507 9 Ave N

    A warm, friendly atmosphere with notably delicious homemade pub fare, craft beer, wines, and spirits. Authentic mountain town feel, perfect for locals and tourists alike.

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    Whitetooth Bistro
    427 9 Ave N

    Modern dishes and nightly features made with fresh, local ingredients. Upscale yet casual atmosphere with an alleyway patio for a romantic evening out or casual morning brunch!

Lazuli Bunting
 Shopping
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    Golden Outdoors
    503 9 Ave N

    Suit up in outdoor recreational gear before you head out on the bird trail. The friendly staff will help you find exactly what you need.

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    Higher Ground Sports
    501 9 Ave N

    A backcountry specialist and boutique bike store complete with their own cafe – get a good lay of the land from their experts before renting a bike and beginning your adventure.

 Visitor Centre
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    Golden Visitor Centre
    1000 Trans-Canada Hwy

    Gather local insights on activities, attractions, and accommodations in and around Golden from the friendly, welcoming visitor information counsellors on hand – and pick up some travel guides and maps for the road!

Following the River South

Discover small towns and big vistas around every turn as the Columbia River makes its way south, creating a robust wetland home to thousands of migratory bird species.

Reflection Lake by Bruno Wong
 Birding
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    Cedar Lake Recreation Site
    1400 Cedar Lake FSR

    This forested area above the Columbia River offers camping and day-use with picnic sites, parking, and toilet facilities. Over 50 km of recreational trails (the Moonraker Trail system) are accessible from the campground. Cedar Lake is home to resident Loons and Pileated Woodpeckers, as well as various other songbirds.

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    Rotary Bike Trails
    Start right at the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge or anywhere along this well-marked trail

    Experience Golden by travelling along this in-town hiking and biking loop, perfect for sightseeing and relaxing in nature. The trail winds its way along the Kicking Horse River, through residential areas and treed paths, and past Reflection Lake. A great option for exploring, as you take time to stop and observe birds all along the trail.

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    Columbia River and Wetlands

    The Columbia Wetlands are home to 180kms of protected wetlands stretching the entire length of the Columbia Valley Bird Trail. This protected area is recognized by scientists worldwide for its remarkable variety and abundance of birds, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, fish and invertebrates. With several canoeing and SUP boarding access points, there are countless opportunities to view birdlife all throughout the area.

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    Columbia Wetlands Outpost
    2581 BC-95, Parson, BC

    A peaceful afternoon floating along the Columbia River via traditional canoe (or e-canoe) provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the wetlands and see some of the regions favourite birds – from eagles and king fishers, to swallows, waterfowl and other migratory species.

Ruddy Duck
 Cafe
 Food
 Shopping
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort by Reuben Krabbe
 Accommodations
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    Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
    1500 Kicking Horse Trail, Golden, BC

    More than just a place for rest and relaxation, Kicking Horse Resort is deeply ingrained in the culture of Golden – complete with spectacular birds-eye views of town, and all down the Columbia Valley.

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    Find a place to stay in Golden!

    Golden is a unique destination that offers a wide range of accommodations throughout the Columbia Valley. Stay in a hotel, motel, cozy rustic cottage or cabin. Travelling with a group? Book a large, luxurious lodge or bed & breakfast to suit your travel needs.