Located in the Canadian Rockies with some of the driest and most abundant champagne powder in Canada, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort (KHMR) or simply known as the Horse, is a paradise for the seriously skilled riders. With long steep chutes, impressive vertical drop, and short lift lines, the mountain is a haven for ski and snowboard enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences. Renowned for it's panoramic views, legendary terrain, and arguably the best snow in Canada, Kicking Horse is a gateway for year-round adventures.
Previously employed as a Marketing & Group Sales Manager for Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (RCR), and now representing them as an ambassador, I'm gonna give you the lowdown and share all the insider tips on how to get the best out of your time on resort. I've rode this hill with media and athletes and know many locals and employees, so I'm confident that I'll answer all of your questions!
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
Above the town of Golden, British Columbia, Kicking Horse Ski Resort emerges as a premier skiing destination. Spanning over 3,486 acres of skiable terrain over 5 alpine bowls, the Horse offers an exhilarating a vertical drop of 1,314 meters (4,314 ft), ranking in as the fourth largest among North American ski resorts. "The Champagne Powder Capital of Canada," sits on the famous Powder Highway and boosts an annual average snowfall of 7.3M (24 ft) at the summit stations. Situated in the Purcell Mountains and overlooking the Rocky Mountain Trench, Kicking Horse is aptly named after the nearby Kicking Horse River and Kicking Horse Pass.
Mountain Statistics:
- Average Snowfall at Summit Snow Stations: 7.3M (295" = 24 ft)
- Named Runs: 120+
- Top Elevation: 2,505 meters (8,218 ft)
- Vertical: 1,314 meters (4,314 ft)
- Chairlifts: 5 (Pioneer, Catamount, Golden Eagle Express Gondola, Stairway to Heaven, Jelly Bean Express belt)
- Terrain: 3,486 acres of skiable terrain
- Inbound Chutes: 85+
- Alpine bowls: Crystal Bowl, Bowl Over, Feuz Bowl, Super Bowl, and Rudi's Bowl
- Named Runs: 120+
Kicking Horse Average Snowfall
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*Check Kicking Horse's snow report for the most up to date information on snow conditions.
Kicking Horse Ski Resort History
Kicking Horse is located on the traditional unceded territory of the Ktunaxa and Secwepemc peoples which is also home to the Metis Nation. The first notable mention of Europeans in the area was in 1858, during an expedition led by John Palliser to chart a route through the Rockies. Geologist James Hector, found himself in a dramatic encounter. While retrieving a loose pack horse, Hector was knocked unconscious by a kick to the head during a brawl between the horses. Mistaken for dead, Hector awoke in the arms of his Indigenous guides, en route to his own grave. Upon regaining consciousness, he explored the valley and river, eventually immortalizing his ordeal by lending his name to the mountain pass and river—a tribute to resilience and adventure.
In 2011, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (RCR) acquired Kicking Horse Mountain Resort from the original developer, solidifying its position as a key player in the Canadian skiing landscape. The resort's history traces back to Whitetooth Ski Area, founded in 1986, and its subsequent transformation under the visionary leadership of Vancouver architect Oberto Oberti and the investment of developer Ballast Nedam. The addition of the Eagle Eye Gondola and Catamount fixed grip chair in 2000 marked a significant expansion of the resort, enhancing accessibility and providing breathtaking views.
Geographic Location
Located just 6.4 kilometers west of Golden, BC, Kicking Horse Ski Resort offers an exceptional skiing experience in the heart of British Columbia’s alpine terrain. With Calgary International Airport only 2.5 hours away, access to Golden BC skiing is both convenient and scenic. Keep in mind, if you're driving to the resort, winter tires or chains are required on most routes from October 1 to April 30.
Flying into Golden
With Calgary International Airport only 2.5 hours away, access to Golden BC skiing is both convenient and scenic. The Canadian Rockies International Airport located in Cranbrook, British Columbia, serves as a convenient gateway to the region. A 3 hour drive from this airport, it provides seamless connectivity for visitors to explore the stunning slopes of Kicking Hourse Mountain Resort.
Winter Operations
*Check the daily Kicking Horse snow report for most up to date information on operations and amenities hours of operation.
Kicking Horse's five chairlifts, named Pioneer, Catamount, Golden Eagle gondola, Stairway to Heaven, and the Jelly Bean Express belt offers terrain for all ability levels, even complete beginners. The primary access at the ski resort is through the 8-person gondola lift, and additional alpine areas are serviced by the Stairway to Heaven quad chairlift. Beginners can use the Catamount quad chairlift at the base, while the Pioneer Chair is opened during peak times.
Beginner Area (Learning & Adventure Centre)
The Jelly Bean express conveyor belt is the perfect space for learning those first turns.
Alpine Bowls
The 8-person Golden Eagle Express gondola is remarkable, climbing an impressive 3500 vertical in one stage. This grants access to a few alpine bowls: Super Bowl (via bootpack), Bowl Over, & Crystal Bowl. To access Feuz (Ozone) and Rudi's bowls (via bootpack), you have to ride the Stairway to Heaven chairlift. Intermediates and beginner riders can travel to the summit and take “It’s a 10”, a 10km long trail from top to bottom (cat track).
Amenities
*Check the daily snow report for most up to date information on operations and amenities closures.
Parking
There is ample parking at the the base area at Kicking Horse, offered on a first-come-first-served basis. On weekends, the parking lots are busy so it's best to show up early in the morning or later in the afternoon when many powderhounds are leaving. Arriving at 11:00am may result in driving around searching for a spot.
Guest Services
Is located in the building to the (skiers) left of the gondola, as shown in the above image of the base area.
Tickets & Passes
If you live near Golden, the early bird family season sale is the best deal. Always check Kicking Horse's website for most up to date information on season passes and tickets. Buy your season pass here!
Purchase the Kicking Horse Mountian Resort season pass and get nearly 120 days of riding. With a season pass purchase, you can get discounted tickets for friends & family, savings on retails, rentals, lessons, tune ups, parking, lockers and vacation packages.
RCR Rockies Season Pass
You can also purchase the Rockies Season Pass if you want to ride at all the RCR Resorts: Fernie Alpine Resort, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Kimberley Alpine Resort and Nakiska Ski Area.
Super Pass Season Pass
With the Super Pass you get access to all the great RCR Resorts (Fernie Alpine Resort, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Kimberley Alpine Resort and Nakiska Ski Area) plus with the added benefit of Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Epic Pass and Epic Day Pass
The Epic Pass and Epic Day Pass (4 or more days) include access to the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, plus access to Whistler Blackcomb, Vail, Park City and more. Skip the ticket office and head straight to the slopes with Direct-to-lift access with your Epic Pass, Epic Day Pass or Epic Adaptive Pass (4 or more days). Epic Pass, Epic Day Pass and Epic Adaptive Pass holders receive up to 7 days total of skiing at RCR Resorts. Once the Days have been used, the pass holder will receive 50% off single day lift tickets.
Lessons
With a range of lesson options catering to all levels, Kicking Horse Mountain Sports School ensures there's something for everyone. Whether you're into skiing or snowboarding, bilingual instructors are available to make your experience both fun and educational.
To make the best of your time at Kicking Horse Ski Resort, hire a snowboard/ski instructor for the day, or join in on a free guided mountain tour to help you explore the best of terrain.
Insider Tip: Do an Early Tracks session, to ride up the gondola before the general public.
Other Winter Activities
For non-skiers and snowboarders, Kicking Horse offers adventures for all. From heli-skiing to snowshoeing, or a gondola sightseeing tour—a must-do in British Columbia. Your Golden getaway isn't complete without it!
Plan your next adventure by calling 1-866-SKI-KICK (754-5425).
Daycare
As a parent to a toddler, one of my personal recommendations that allows me to continue to snowboard is enrolling our kiddo in daycare and spend the day hiking for the best lines. The winter sports school navigated me throughout the process of booking Sylas into the daycare and adventure lesson.
Adventure Lesson & Lunch Add on
If you do the full day in daycare, make sure you opt for the adventure lesson and lunch add on so that you have the freedom to stay out riding with the kid has an amazing time!
Rentals & Repair
The Kicking Horse rental shop is located in the base area (the corner of the Glacier Mountaineer Lodge building), steps away from the slopes. This is also the location of the repair shop where you can get you equipment tuned up and fixed.
RCR WINGS Equipment Lease Program
RCR WINGS Program is available for all RCR-owned and operated resorts and is aimed toward beginner/intermediate skiers and snowboarders. The program is primarily aimed toward growing kids who may need to exchange their equipment throughout the season to accommodate their growth spurts. If a larger size is needed throughout the season, simply head into the rental shop and swap the equipment out at no additional cost!
Retail
Two options on the base area.
Sports Alpine Ski and Snowboard Boutique
At the Sports Alpine Boutique, you'll find everything you need in the newest ski and snowboard gear from the hottest clothing brands. The Retail Shop is Open Daily - 8:30am - 4:00pm. As a season pass holder, you'll save 10% when you show your season pass.
Kicking Horse Restaurants
Whitetooth Grill is located in the main lodge.
The Eagle's Eye is at the top of the gondola.
Kicking Horse Hotels
The Glacier Mountaineer Lodge offers ski-in/ski-out accommodation, steps away from village shops and restaurants. Featuring full kitchens, fireplaces, inviting soaker tubs, and resort-style furnishings, you'll have views of the mountain ranges or watching your friends and family ski down to the village from your private balcony. The lodge offers amenities including steam room, sauna, outdoor hot tub, fitness area, ski lockers with boot dryers, internet service and warm lobby atmosphere with friendly front desk service. Select the perfect size for your group or family from their one, two and three bedroom suites. Pet-friendly suites are available.
Corporate Bookings/Events
Weddings at Kicking Horse can simply be described as magical!
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Summer Operations
Kicking Horse Bike Park offers a variety of trails amidst stunning mountain vistas (see trail map). From smooth machine-made trails to rocky technical descents, there's something for every rider. Plus, premium downhill and cross-country bikes and gear are available for rent, ensuring an unforgettable mountain biking experience.
Here's the stats:
- 3,700 ft Vertical Drop
- Over 50 km of Trails
- 31 Trail Runs
- 120+ Drops & Jumps
Adding a unique touch to the resort, Kicking Horse is home to a fenced refuge for a single grizzly bear named "Boo." The refuge is visible from the gondola, and an interpretive centre accessible via the Catamount chair operates for tourism during the summer season. The Grizzly Bear Refuge offers a glimpse into the natural wonders of the region, enhancing the overall experience for visitors to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.
Experience stunning vistas while hiking or dining. For an adrenaline rush, try Via Ferrata, where intense views accompany the thrill of dangling from a mountain or crossing a suspension bridge (safely harnessed, of course).
