Grouse Mountain Skyride
Ascend to the 'Peak in Vancouver' via the iconic Skyride for breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and thrilling activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Grouse Mountain Skyride
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to the 'Peak in Vancouver' via the iconic Skyride for breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and thrilling activities.
"Awesome experience! From the Gondola ride to the complimentary shows like Lumber Jack, Birds In Motion & Chairlift."
Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Skyride tickets in advance online. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for the Grouse Grind hike or exploring the mountain's trails. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grouse Mountain Skyride
Base to Summit
Soar above the trees for breathtaking panoramic views of Vancouver and beyond. A must-do experience!
The Grouse Grind
Base to Summit
Challenge yourself on 'Mother Nature's Stairmaster' – 2,830 stairs with 800m elevation gain. Rewarding!
Peak of Christmas
Summit
Experience a magical winter wonderland with Santa, reindeer, and festive lights during the holiday season.
Grizzly Bear Habitat
Summit
See rescued grizzly bears, Grinder and Coola, in their naturalistic habitat. Educational and heartwarming.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Grouse Grind or Gondola?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Skyride tickets in advance online. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for the Grouse Grind hike or exploring the mountain's trails. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Your Own Food
Summit dining can be pricey and lines long. Bringing your own snacks or lunch is a smart move. :sandwich:
Check Skyride Status
In rare cases, the Skyride can break down. Check status before you go, especially if planning to hike down. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Skyride tickets in advance online. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for the Grouse Grind hike or exploring the mountain's trails. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Your Own Food
Summit dining can be pricey and lines long. Bringing your own snacks or lunch is a smart move. :sandwich:
Check Skyride Status
In rare cases, the Skyride can break down. Check status before you go, especially if planning to hike down. :warning:
Dress in Layers
Mountain weather changes quickly. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and wind, even on a sunny day. :cloud:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning views from the Skyride and summit, calling it an 'awesome experience.' The complimentary shows and the chance to see rescued grizzly bears are also highlights. Some find the summit dining expensive and suggest bringing your own food.
"Awesome experience! From the Gondola ride to the complimentary shows like Lumber Jack, Birds In Motion & Chairlift. I also ride the zip line which made my visit more fun!
The ride is more fun & enjoyable because of the 2 energetic & cool guides, James & Ryan."
Mai Arguelles
"Wonderful ride up the gondola with a terrific scenic view. Two huge rescued Grizzly Bears cavort in their spacious enclosure. We finished off our visit with a very tasty dinner, capped by a couple delicious Manhattans from the bar."
Empirical Wizard
"Amazing views and hikes to be had from this mountain park just 30 mins drive from Vancouver harbour. A great day or half a day out for all the family"
speedbird17
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive and park at the base, or take public transit. The TransLink bus system offers routes to Grouse Mountain. Many visitors also opt for the Grouse Mountain shuttle from downtown Vancouver for convenience. :bus:
Yes, there is ample parking available at the base of Grouse Mountain. Fees may apply, so check the official website for current rates. :car:
Yes, taxis and rideshare services can drop you off at the base of Grouse Mountain. This is a convenient option if you're not driving. :taxi:
The Grouse Mountain shuttle is a dedicated bus service that runs from various points in downtown Vancouver directly to the mountain's base, offering a hassle-free way to visit. :bus:
Driving from downtown Vancouver typically takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Public transit or shuttle services may take longer. :clock:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The primary cost is for the Skyride. Adult round-trip tickets are around $80, with discounts for seniors and youth. The Grouse Grind hike is free to ascend, but you'll need a Skyride ticket to descend. :moneybag:
Yes, the Grouse Grind trail is free to hike up. However, you will need to purchase a Skyride ticket to come back down unless you hike down the BCMC trail. :hiking_boot:
It's highly recommended to book your Skyride tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to save time and ensure availability. :computer:
Yes, besides the standard Skyride ticket, you can often find packages that include access to various activities like the zipline or ropes courses. Check their website for current offerings. :gift:
Operating hours vary seasonally and can change. It's best to check the official Grouse Mountain website for the most up-to-date Skyride schedule before your visit. :calendar:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy stunning views, visit the grizzly bear habitat, watch complimentary shows like the Lumberjack Show and Birds in Motion, explore winter activities, and dine at the restaurants. :star:
Yes, the Grouse Mountain Skyride is accessible and can accommodate strollers and wheelchairs, making it a great option for families and those with mobility needs. :wheelchair:
Yes, Grouse Mountain is home to two rescued grizzly bears, Grinder and Coola, who live in a protected habitat at the summit. You can observe them during your visit. :bear:
The panoramic views of Vancouver, the Pacific Ocean, and surrounding mountains from the summit are spectacular. The Skyride ascent itself also offers incredible vistas. :camera:
Grouse Mountain offers several complimentary live shows, including the popular Lumberjack Show, Birds in Motion (a bird of prey demonstration), and various ranger talks. :performing_arts:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options at the summit, including restaurants and cafes. However, many visitors recommend bringing your own food due to higher prices and potential wait times. :forkandknife:
The summit offers a range of options, from casual cafes to more formal dining experiences. You can find meals, snacks, and beverages. :coffee:
Absolutely! There are designated areas where you can enjoy your own packed lunch or snacks, which is a popular choice for budget-conscious visitors. :picnic_table:
Dining at the summit can be more expensive than at sea level. Bringing your own food is a common tip to save money. :moneywithwings:
While specific menus can change, most mountain resorts offer a variety of options. It's advisable to check the current menus online or inquire directly with the restaurant upon arrival. :leafy_green:
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Skyride journey offers incredible photo opportunities. At the top, the panoramic viewpoints, the bears, and the winter landscapes (if applicable) are prime spots. :camerawithflash:
Yes, sunset from Grouse Mountain provides stunning, colorful skies over Vancouver and the surrounding areas. It's a very popular time for photographers. :city_sunset:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. If visiting in winter, a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant mountain shots. :dslr:
While you can take photos during the Grouse Grind, it's a strenuous hike, so focus on safety and your pace. The best photo ops are often at the top or during breaks. :hiking_boot:
Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check the official guidelines. :memo:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger adventurers, the Kids Tree Canopy Adventure offers a fun, safe ropes course experience. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as summit dining can be pricey, and consider the stroller and wheelchair accessibility of the Skyride for easier navigation.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
Once at the summit, consider the Mountain Ropes Adventure or ziplining for an added dose of adrenaline and a unique way to experience the mountain's heights. Remember to hydrate and fuel properly, and be prepared for the descent via Skyride or another hike. :runner:
📸 Photography Lovers
Sunset from Grouse Mountain is particularly spectacular, painting the sky with vibrant colors over the city and ocean. Don't miss the chance to photograph the resident grizzly bears or the majestic birds of prey during the Birds in Motion show. In winter, the Peak of Christmas offers magical, festive scenes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Skyride Experience
Unlike a gondola, the Skyride cabins remain fixed on the cable, providing a smooth and stable journey. The ascent typically takes about 8 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery. It's an accessible option for most visitors, including families with strollers and individuals using wheelchairs, making the mountain's attractions reachable for everyone.
For those seeking an even more thrilling perspective, consider the Mountain Ropes Adventure or ziplining once you reach the top. These activities offer an adrenaline rush with incredible aerial views, complementing the Skyride's scenic journey.
Conquering the Grouse Grind
While the climb is strenuous, the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit is immense. The trail is well-maintained, but proper footwear is essential, and it's advisable to carry water and snacks. The Grind is a one-way ascent; once at the top, you'll need to take the Skyride down or hike down the BCMC trail.
For those who prefer not to tackle the Grind, the BCMC trail offers an alternative, albeit still challenging, hiking route. Both trails provide a rewarding physical challenge and a unique way to experience Grouse Mountain's natural beauty.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation
Beyond the bears, the mountain is also home to various bird species, which are showcased in the engaging Birds in Motion demonstration. This popular show features magnificent birds of prey soaring through the air, demonstrating their natural behaviors and hunting skills. It's an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.
During the winter months, the Peak of Christmas event transforms the mountain into a festive wonderland, complete with Santa, reindeer, and dazzling light displays. This seasonal celebration adds another layer of magic to the mountain's natural appeal, making it a year-round destination with diverse attractions.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit