Golden Rush MTB is a new mountain bike race that will take place in Golden, BC, Canada, and a successor of the popular TransRockies Golden 24, but with some changes that will appeal to riders of all levels and styles. Golden Rush MTB is an 8-hour and 12-hour mountain bike race that challenges riders to complete as many laps as possible on a 15 km course with roughly 500 m of climbing per lap. The course features a mix of blue (intermediate) singletrack and double-track trails, with stunning views of the Rocky and Purcell mountain ranges. The race is open to solo riders or teams of up to four people, and there are different categories based on age, gender, and skill level. Whether you are a seasoned racer or a casual rider, you will find a category and a race option that suits your goals and preferences.
Golden Rush MTB is not just a race; it’s a mountain biking festival that celebrates the spirit of adventure and community. The event will have a lively “ChillVille” tent that will host live music, food trucks, beverages, and a festive vibe throughout the weekend. Participants and fans are also invited to camp in the beautiful mountain surroundings, share stories around the campfire, make new friends, and enjoy the rugged charm of Golden, BC. And if that’s not enough, there will be a fun and relaxed Sunday morning ride for those who want to explore the stunning trails more leisurely. E-bikes are welcome for this ride.
Part of the TransRockies Race Series
Golden Rush is part of the TransRockies Race Series, a series of events that span road cycling, mountain biking, trail running, and gravel biking. The events occur in some of North America’s most beautiful and rugged destinations, such as Alberta, British Columbia, Colorado, and Utah. The TransRockies Race Series is not just for elite athletes. It is designed to cater to both competitive and recreational participants, with different categories, distances, and formats to suit different levels of ability and experience. Whether you want to race solo or as a team for one day or for six days, you will find an event that suits you.
The TransRockies Race Series is also more than just a race. It is an adventure that combines fitness, fun, and friendship. You will get to enjoy the stunning scenery, the diverse terrain, and the friendly atmosphere of each event. You will also get to experience the camaraderie and support of fellow racers, volunteers, and organizers. You will make memories and connections that will last a lifetime.
The TransRockies Race Series features ten events over nearly 40 days annually. Strambecco covers several of their race events, including Moab Run the Rocks, Moab Rocks, Moab Fondo Fest which includes the Gran Fondo Moab and Gravel Fondo Moab, Golden Rush, Gran Fondo Badlands, TransRockies Single Track-6, TransRockies Run, TransRockies Gravel Royale, TranSelkirks Run, and the Golden Ultra.
We consider their races and events to be some of the best out there and have been featured in a handful of our popular ‘Best’ articles including: the best road cycling race events in the Southwest, the best MTB race events in the Southwest, the best gravel cycling race events in the Rockies, the best Mountain Bike Race Events in the Northwest, and the best cycling race events in all of Canada.
What else can you do in Golden, BC?
Golden, BC, is a small town with a big heart, located at the confluence of the Kicking Horse and Columbia rivers and surrounded by six national parks (Banff, Glacier, Jasper, Kootenay, Mount Revelstoke, and Yoho) and three mountain ranges (Canadian Rockies, Selkirk, and Purcell). It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of activities and attractions for all seasons and tastes.
If you are into mountain biking, you will be spoiled for choice in Golden, as there are over 100 km of trails to explore, ranging from easy to expert and from cross-country to downhill. You can ride on the Mountain Shadows Trail Network, where the Golden Rush course is located, or on the Moonraker Trail Network, which offers more technical and scenic trails. You can also take the gondola to the top of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and enjoy the exhilarating downhill trails and the breathtaking views from the highest restaurant in Canada, the Eagle’s Eye.
But mountain biking is not the only thing you can do in Golden. You can also try whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, paddle boarding on the rivers, hiking, climbing, mountaineering, or watching wildlife in the national parks. You can also visit the Golden Skybridge, the highest suspension bridge in Canada, and experience the thrill of walking 426 feet above an expansive canyon or ziplining, rock climbing, or axe throwing. You can also learn about the history and culture of Golden at the Golden Museum, the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge, or the Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre.
Where can you stay and eat in Golden, BC?
If you are planning to join the Golden Rush, you will need a place to stay and eat in Golden, BC. Luckily, there are plenty of options for different budgets and preferences. You can choose from hotels, motels, lodges, cabins, campgrounds, or even tiny homes. You can also choose from a variety of restaurants, cafes, bistros, and pubs that offer local and international cuisines.
Some of the best hotels in Golden are the Holiday Inn Express, the Best Western Mountainview Inn, and the Ramada Golden. They offer comfortable and spacious rooms, indoor pools, mountain views, and convenient locations. Some of Golden’s best lodges and cabins are the Cedar House Restaurant & Chalets, the Glenogle Mountain Lodge Resort & Spa, and the Rocky Mountain Cabins. They offer luxurious and cozy accommodations, private hot tubs, stunning scenery, and delicious food.
If you prefer to camp, you can stay at the Golden Municipal Campground & RV Park, the Golden Riverfront Campground, or the Columbia Wetlands Outpost. They offer riverside campsites, heated washrooms, fire pits, and access to adventure. If you want to try something different, you can stay at the Home Lodge, the Golden Tiny Homes, or the Basecamp Lodge Golden. They offer stylish and modern lodging, sauna, hot tub, and timber-framed log buildings.
When it comes to dining, you will find a wide range of restaurants and cafes in Golden that offer appetizing fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Some of the best restaurants in Golden are the Eleven22 Restaurant, the Whitetooth Bistro, and the Wolf’s Den. They offer original, modern, and comfort food with generous portions and local and international influences. Some of the best cafes in Golden are the Bluebird Cafe, the Jita’s Cafe, and the Purcell Coffee. They offer fresh and tasty coffee, tea, baked goods, and sandwiches in a cozy and friendly atmosphere.
