Grouse Grind Vancouver
Conquer 'Mother Nature's Stairmaster' – a steep, 2.9km trail with over 2,800 stairs and 800m elevation gain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Grouse Grind Vancouver
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer 'Mother Nature's Stairmaster' – a steep, 2.9km trail with over 2,800 stairs and 800m elevation gain.
"It's a true test of endurance, but the views from the top are absolutely worth the climb!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Invest in good running shoes or hiking boots. Your feet will thank you!
💧 Hydration is Non-Negotiable
Bring plenty of water, and consider an insulated bottle to keep it cold.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Endless Staircase
Trailhead to Summit
Conquer over 2,800 stairs and 800 meters of elevation gain. It's a true test of endurance, earning its nickname 'Mother Nature's Stairmaster.'
Grizzly Bear Habitat
Grouse Mountain Summit
Meet Grinder and Coola, orphaned grizzly bears residing in a protected habitat at the summit. A unique wildlife encounter after your challenging hike.
Panoramic City Views
Grouse Mountain Summit
After the climb, be rewarded with breathtaking views of Vancouver, the Pacific Ocean, and surrounding mountains. A perfect photo opportunity.
+1Planning Your Visit
Gear Up for the Grind
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Invest in good running shoes or hiking boots. Your feet will thank you! +1
💧 Hydration is Non-Negotiable
Bring plenty of water, and consider an insulated bottle to keep it cold. +1
🚶♀️ Pace Yourself
It's a marathon, not a sprint. Take breaks and listen to your body. +1
⬆️ Consider the BCMC Trail
For a less crowded experience, try the nearby BCMC trail. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Invest in good running shoes or hiking boots. Your feet will thank you! +1
💧 Hydration is Non-Negotiable
Bring plenty of water, and consider an insulated bottle to keep it cold. +1
🚶♀️ Pace Yourself
It's a marathon, not a sprint. Take breaks and listen to your body. +1
⬆️ Consider the BCMC Trail
For a less crowded experience, try the nearby BCMC trail. +1
⬆️ Descend via Gondola
You can't hike down the Grind, but you can take the gondola down.
📱 Cell Service Available
You'll have decent cell coverage throughout the trail and at the summit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Grouse Grind is a highly challenging but rewarding hike, celebrated for its intense workout and stunning summit views. While many appreciate the physical accomplishment and the mountain's attractions, some find the trail itself to be crowded and lacking in scenic beauty compared to other Vancouver hikes. The steep ascent and numerous stairs are consistently highlighted as the defining, and often grueling, features of this popular activity.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Grouse Grind trailhead is located at the base of Grouse Mountain in North Vancouver. You can drive and park at the Grouse Mountain base, or take public transit. The TransLink bus #236 from Lonsdale Quay or the #246 from Downtown Vancouver will take you to the Grouse Mountain Skyride base.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Grouse Mountain base. It can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! TransLink bus routes #236 and #246 service the Grouse Mountain Skyride base, making it accessible via public transportation from downtown Vancouver and Lonsdale Quay.
From downtown Vancouver, take the #246 bus directly to Grouse Mountain. Alternatively, you can take the SeaBus from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay and then transfer to the #236 bus.
Yes, the Grouse Grind is easily accessible by car. Follow the signs for Grouse Mountain from Highway 1. There is a large parking lot at the base.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Grouse Grind trail itself is free to access. However, if you plan to use the Skyride gondola to go up or down, you will need to purchase a ticket.
The Grouse Grind trail is free. The Skyride gondola is not free; a one-way trip down costs around $20, and a round-trip ticket is significantly more.
The Grouse Grind trail is typically open from late May or early June to mid-October, weather permitting. It's best to check the official Grouse Mountain website for exact opening and closing dates.
No, you are not permitted to hike down the Grouse Grind trail. You must take the Skyride gondola down or use the nearby BCMC trail for descent.
Yes, Grouse Mountain often offers discounted Skyride tickets after 7 PM, which can be a great option if you plan to hike up and enjoy the sunset.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
For most first-time hikers, it takes between 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Experienced hikers can finish in under an hour, with the fastest times being around 25 minutes.
The Grouse Grind is considered a very strenuous hike due to its steep incline and over 2,800 stairs. It's often called 'Mother Nature's Stairmaster.'
Wear comfortable athletic clothing and sturdy running shoes or hiking boots. Layers are recommended as you'll warm up significantly during the climb. +1
Yes, you can expect decent cell phone coverage throughout the trail and at the summit, regardless of your provider.
At the summit, you'll find restaurants, cafes, washrooms, the grizzly bear habitat, the Eye of the Wind observation deck, and various seasonal activities like lumberjack shows and ziplining.
📸 📸 Photography
While the trail itself is challenging, the summit offers stunning panoramic views of Vancouver and the surrounding landscape, perfect for photos.
You can take photos, but be mindful of other hikers. It's best to step aside if you need to stop for an extended period to take pictures.
Many visitors find the rewarding views at the summit make the challenging hike worthwhile.
Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful golden hour light, and the sunset views are spectacular.
Besides the general cityscape, look for opportunities with the grizzly bears (from a safe distance), the Skyride gondola, and the vast mountain scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing a round-trip Skyride ticket for the whole family. This allows everyone to experience the mountain views and attractions without the strenuous hike. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for a full day of activities at the top.
💰 Budget Travelers
Many visitors opt to hike up and then purchase a one-way ticket down. To save even more, consider visiting after 7 PM when discounted Skyride tickets are often available, allowing you to enjoy the sunset views on your descent.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Many aim for personal best times, with dedicated 'grinders' completing it in under an hour. For those seeking a competitive edge, consider the BCMC trail as an alternative or supplementary workout, as it offers a similar challenge with fewer crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Training for the Grind
Some suggest that if you can comfortably run a 10k, you're likely well-prepared for the Grind, though the elevation gain is a significant factor.
For those looking for a less intense introduction, starting with the BCMC trail is a popular suggestion. It offers a similar workout but is generally less crowded, allowing for more flexibility in pacing and breaks.
Navigating the Trail Etiquette
However, some users report encountering entitled 'grinders' who can be impatient. The advice is to not let these encounters deter you; focus on your own pace and enjoy the challenge.
Remember that the Grouse Grind is a shared space. While some are focused on speed, many are there for the experience and the workout. A friendly greeting or a simple 'hello' can go a long way in fostering a positive atmosphere on the trail.
The Grouse Mountain Experience Beyond the Grind
Visitors can also enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Vancouver and the surrounding Lower Mainland from various viewpoints. Seasonal attractions include the popular Lumberjack Show, ziplining adventures, and in winter, skiing and snowboarding. The Skyride gondola itself offers a scenic journey up and down the mountain, with discounted tickets available in the evenings.
For those who prefer not to hike, the Skyride provides direct access to all these attractions. It's a popular option for families or those seeking the mountain experience without the strenuous climb.
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