Driving
Kootenay Bay to Golden
Updated: 31 May 2026
The journey from Kootenay Bay to Golden is approximately 300 kilometers. You must take the Kootenay Lake Ferry to Balfour, then travel north on Highway 31 to Kaslo, continue to New Denver, take Highway 6 to Nakusp, cross the Galena Bay Ferry, and follow Highway 23 to Revelstoke. From Revelstoke, take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) east to Golden. This route takes about 5 hours. It is a long but incredibly scenic drive.
Total Distance: 300 km driving distance; 140 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the ferries and highways takes about 5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the only practical way to reach Golden.
Compare Kootenay Bay to Golden Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
5 hours
Avg Price
75-90 CAD in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
Kootenay Lake Ferry, Highway 31, Highway 6, Galena Bay Ferry, Highway 23, Highway 1.
This is a long drive; plan for breaks.
Travel Tips
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Ferry SchedulesCheck both ferry schedules before leaving.
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FuelingFill up in Revelstoke before heading to Golden.
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Road ConditionsCheck DriveBC for any closures on Highway 1.
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DiningPack plenty of food for the long drive.
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PhotographyThe mountain views are spectacular; stop at designated pull-outs.
Safety Tips
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WildlifeBe very careful of wildlife on Highway 1.
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Mountain DrivingThe roads are winding; maintain a safe speed.
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WeatherBe prepared for changing conditions in the mountain passes.
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Emergency KitCarry a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle.
People Also Ask
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Are the ferries free?Yes, both ferries are free.
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How long is the drive?It takes about 5 hours.
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Is it a scenic route?Yes, it is one of the most beautiful drives in BC.
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Can I take a bus?No, there is no public bus service for this route.
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Is the road paved?Yes, the entire route is paved.
Quick Info
- From Kootenay Bay, British Columbia, Canada
- To Golden, British Columbia, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
June to September for clear roads and ferry reliability.
Things to Do in Golden
1
Kicking Horse Mountain
Visit the resort for skiing or the grizzly bear refuge.
2
Yoho National Park
Explore the nearby national park for stunning lakes and waterfalls.
3
Golden Skybridge
Walk across the highest suspension bridge in Canada.
4
Columbia River
Enjoy rafting or kayaking on the river.
Tags
Kootenay Bay to Golden
Kootenay Lake Ferry
Highway 31 to Golden
Golden BC travel
Kootenay road trip
driving in BC
ferry to Golden
scenic BC routes
