| Hiking the Grouse Grind is a rite of passage for any
Vancouverite and a favorite cardio jolt for fitness fanatics (and there are more
than a few of those here).
 The intense 1.8-mile stair-climb straight up Grouse
Mountain has its rewards, particularly the phenomenal panoramic views of the
city, Vancouver Island and northern Washington State — not to mention a cozy
mountaintop pub serving local brews and perfectly credible nachos. Or you can
take the easy way up: the tram. 6400 Nancy Greene Way; (604) 984-0661
This itinerary is best enjoyed on a clear day,
with hiking the Grouse Grind being the exception, as it is covered by a canopy
of trees and can be enjoyed in most weather, except when snow & ice cover the
mountaintop.
10:00 a.m.
Travel to the Grouse Grind.
From Vancouver, take the SeaBus to North Vancouver. You will arrive at Lonsdale
Quay and the bus loop. Hop onto Bus #236 to the foot of Grouse Mountain.
11:00 a.m.
You will arrive at the lower Grouse Mountain parking lot. Follow the signs to
"The Grind". It's to the east of the Gondola. You will find the entrance behind
a chain-link fence.
The Grind is a trail that ascends Grouse Mountain , which is sometimes referred
to as "Mother Nature's Stairmaster." While it doesn't sound like a long hike,
2.9km, it's steep! It rises over 850 meters (2,800 feet). It used to be the only
way up to the top of the mountain to ski, before the gondola was built. Now it's
a great cardio workout. The average time it takes to ascend the natural
staircase is 1 hour and 30 minutes, so be prepared with water.
12:30 p.m.
When you get to the top, relax. Head into the building and grab a drink and a
bite to eat. Enjoy the view, as you let your heart rate return to normal.
There are several places to rest your weary legs once you've reached the
mountaintop. One is Altitudes Bistro. It offers a great view of what you just
accomplished and the city beneath, as well as a range of food to replenish your
energy level. What are the others... The Observatory Fine Dinning Restaurant,
Lupins Café, Grouse Grind Coffee Bar and the Rusty Rail.
Once you are ready to head back down, you have two options. You can return down
the Grind the way you came, or enjoy a three-minute descent via the Gondola. You
can buy a one-way return-to-earth Gondola ticket in the Crows Nest for $5.00.
2:30 p.m.
Return to the base of the Mountain.
Catch the #236 bus back to Lonsdale Quay where you will board the SeaBus. Take
the SeaBus back to Waterfront Station. Walk out front of the station to Cordova. |
