Grouse Grind at Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver, BC

mexico from Yangon writes:

the colors are beautiful

Posted: December 26, 2011 05:05:31 AM PST

cancun mexico from Yangon writes:

the colours are amazing

Posted: November 28, 2011 10:46:54 AM PST

Terry Kerr from Richmond, BC writes:

Newbie-Green-First Timer, to any trail or hill walking; born at night, but not last night! I'm 64 years, with 240 lbs, who accepted an invitation to do the grind - what a trip! Not knowing what to expect, heard it was gruesome etc, it didn't let me down. My head was down so much, I never saw the markers, just kept going, people passing gave encouraging remarks, that was nice. It wasn't very busy, every now and then I would look down at people below and think I'm glad I'm not them, then made the rookie mistake of looking up, only to wish I was where they are!
After reading this site, reviewing the Grind Facts, elevation, average timing etc. I'm pleased with my first attempt results of 1:30, but now want to better it, if I can?

Posted: October 31, 2011 04:27:13 PM PST

Todd from Winnipeg writes:

Wow. Holy Cow. There should be a warning at the beginning - for the beginners that think they're going on a "hike". A hike that you must complete because going down would be too steep for most. Especially somebody out of shape and with bad knees - which describes about half of the people we met who were equally morified when we reached the 1/4 way there sign. AFter the shock wore off we had a meeting about what to do - go down against the stream of people - or continue with manty breaks. 1 hour and 41 minutes later we reached the top. It was probably the greatest physical acomplishment I've done. When I heard the record was 21 minutes I was stunned - at how out of shape we must be. All considered - we will definately tackle this beast whenever we return to Vancouver. But really - put up a sign at the start that accurately describes the length, steepness and overall cardio demand required.

Posted: October 23, 2011 04:34:44 PM PST

Lisa from Salt Spring Island writes:

I hiked the Grouse Grind with 3 fitness trainers last weekend... (I am a client & a sucker for punishment) I have been training for months on our own island version of the grind, Mt. Erskine. I was still unprepared for how steep it was!! There is not one level spot to catch your breath. 2 of us did it in 50min. and the other 2 in 57min. Getting to the top is better than money! We hiked the Squamish Chief the next day - a much more enjoyable hike and a different kind of challenge. Loved them both...

Posted: October 22, 2011 03:13:45 PM PST

Guest from Vancouver writes:

If you do the grind right now, expect a 2-3 hour delay going back down (during peak times) on the gondola due to maintenance. Unfortunately the grind is really slippery right now, so not really good to hike back down. This is until November 4th :P

Posted: October 16, 2011 04:39:13 AM PST

Jarlath Bell from Ballinderry Ireland writes:

Did the grouse grind on the 19th Sept 2010,had perfect conditions for it but boy was it tough, it took me 45mins. Felt great afterwards, beautiful place, beautiful counntry.

Posted: September 29, 2011 02:20:08 AM PST

Michel M. from Vancouver writes:

Did the climb on Monday Sept 12 with a friend visiting from Denmark. For him it was a piece of cake, he was even whistling and singing all the way up. As for me, I almost thought I would not make it until after the 1/2 point marker where I said to myself that I just need to keep going up at my pace and stop looking up but look down at what you've accomplish so far. And up I went. Took us just under 2 hours (but we stopped often for lenghty photo shoots). As for my friend, I need to thank him to stick with me through the whole climb, cause he definately would have done it in less than an hour. He's 28 and I'm 57, he's going to mountaineering school in Canmore and I've never done any hiking before and just stop smoking 3 months ago ... I think I will try it again :-) I meant try the climb again, have no intention to try smoking again !

Posted: September 15, 2011 10:33:09 PM PST

Jacqueline Quin from Sydney, Australia writes:

My mate and I did the hike yesterday (9th Sept 2011) and found it challenging as we had just drank ourselves silly the night before. Smelling the booze coming out of our pores was definitely a sign of sobering up.
That half way sign absolutely destroyed us. Watched many people see it and just sit down and have a long needed break. We did it in 1 hour 20 minutes and grabbed a beer after.
So proud of having done that with a 100% hangover in both of us. Recommending it to all my fellow travellers!
Highly congratulate the old blokes who over took us...machines!

Posted: September 10, 2011 11:40:32 AM PST

Kai-Wei Jeng from Richmond writes:

Did the grind on Aug 26,2011. Took me about 1 hr 43 mins. At times these steps seemed to go on forever. I am glad I grind it out to the end. Took many mini breaks after 1/2 way mark. I was drenched in sweats. After getting to the top, it was a feeling of excitement and accomplishment. Looking to see how my body responds tomorrow. I will try to improve my time on the next visit.

Posted: August 27, 2011 02:25:47 AM PST

Justin from Vancouver writes:

I love doing the grouse grind, its a awesome leg workout and great cardio

Posted: August 24, 2011 02:38:42 PM PST

Michelle from Vancouver writes:

Ben: sunscreen isn't required until you reach the top. The whole hike is covered by trees. There are neat free eco tours and a lumberjack and bird shows at the top though which are not covered so for those you'd want some sunscreen or a hat.

Posted: August 10, 2011 11:48:26 AM PST

Ben from Toronto writes:

Will do this hike for first time soon. Can anyone advise if sunscreen is required or is it all under shade of tree canopy? Thanks!

Posted: August 9, 2011 10:08:55 PM PST

Marlene from Richmond BC writes:

I'm so very PROUD of my husband! He just got back from doing the Grouse Grind tonight. Took him 2 hours & 10 min. At the age of near 64 said he wouldn't do it again. But this was an amazing experience for him.
Also very proud of our son... done in
45 min. and our 2 grand kids were on top in 1 1/2 hours. Not their first time.
Our admiration goes out to all who take on
this challenge... No I won't be doing it
in this lifetime.
So very proud of you hon! :)

Posted: July 21, 2011 10:42:58 PM PST

Rammi from Abbotsford writes:

Today July 2011 was the first time when I finished the grouse grind.I have tried two times before but could never go past the first quarter.It was intense but I am proud of myself that I finished it.It took me 2 hours and 5 minutes.

Posted: July 6, 2011 06:30:53 PM PST

Chad from Colorado writes:

Fun Hike, can't believe the girls that hike that mountain! If I lived up here I'd hike it three times a week just to meet chicks!

Posted: July 6, 2011 05:23:16 PM PST

Tobitus from Vancouver writes:

Used to do this trail all the time. Challenging and fun. It's too expensive now, doubling the price over one year is a bit silly.

They make their money on the tourists already, its a shame they have to stoop to dinging the local grinders who made this so popular in the first place.

Posted: July 6, 2011 10:41:27 AM PST

Andree from Vancouver writes:

According to this recent post (http://www.vancouvertrails.com/news/2011/06/15/grouse-grind-opens-for-2011/), the Grind is now longer but with less "stairs". I don't know about you but I find that with all the improvements and changes made to the trail in the last couple of years, the level of difficulty has slightly reduced so personal best times might improve for most who do the Grind regularly. Any thoughts?

Posted: July 4, 2011 01:01:58 PM PST

Randy Pollard from Surrey writes:

I did the Grind with a couple of friends on July 1 (Canada Day) along with hundreds of others. At times it looked like an ant hill had been kicked with the amount of people passing by me. Only the 2nd time doing the grind (first time about 15 years ago) and did approx the same time (1hr 47 mins). I would enjoy doing the Grind more often but the $10 ride down is a little pricey.

Any "easier" hikes down from the top??

Posted: July 2, 2011 12:47:45 PM PST

Dawn from Vancouver writes:

I should add that for those who find it not challenging enough or who simply just want to do more....sometimes after I finish the grind I head straight to goat mountain and when you reach the top you can see an amazing view of the Vancouver and beyond! It's about an 8 km hike. There are some short steep terrain. To get there go past the bear habitat and toward your left you will see a logging road. Run or walk for about 5-10 minutes and you will see the trail head. There are other shorter trails to do. Keep an eye out for bears. I would say it's a must to do after the grouse grind if your one of those people who can complete the grind under an hour :) or just take a break after the grind and then try goat mountain but that means you should start your day early!

Posted: June 7, 2011 03:38:43 PM PST

Dawn from Vancouver writes:

For dedicated grouse grinders who purchase passes every year the wait for the snow to clear is tiresome! But we have to follow mother natures rules however, last season wasn't so great with all the construction happening and the tapering trailway near the end didn't help either. In addition, I paid for the increase in the gondola pass thinking I would be doing the grind in spring and now it's going to expire. I'm upset that I haven't gotten my fare usage of the pass. I hope Grouse would allow an extension on the pass considering the late season, last years construction problems/set-backs and the increase in pass price with minimal use..

Posted: June 7, 2011 03:25:31 PM PST

Mike from Burnaby writes:

I read that Grouse Mountain is going to be open for skiing well into June. It's going to be awhile before the Grind opens.

Posted: May 16, 2011 06:56:39 PM PST

Jo from Surrey writes:

My boyfriend and I did this last year every weekend for almost 2 months. I love the challange and it feels incredible when you reach the top. The downside of this trail is that it can get very busy. The best times to go would be during the week early morning, it's not as busy in the evening but the mosquitos will eat you alive.
Another favorite thing about this hike is that you can take the gondola ride on the way down which will save your knees and legs from going down the hike. I would recommend this hike to anyone that loves a challenge and a great workout!

Posted: April 30, 2011 03:04:11 PM PST

JC from Vancouver writes:

The Grouse Grind is really meant for those who want a challenging outdoor cardio workout. I wouldn't call it a "hike", "Nature's stairmaster" is a more apt term for it. The trail also gets very crowded on nice weekend days. Tourists and athletes alike will flock to the Grind, and as you can imagine, the conflicting paces of the two types of visitors can lead to frustration on both sides. If you show up at the Grind on a Saturday morning, patience and a good-humored attitude will go a long way toward making your own trek more pleasant, as well as others'.

Sandi Rutz from Edmonton, that racist comment really wasn't necessary.

Posted: March 27, 2011 09:31:51 PM PST

J.M. from Seattle writes:

I've completed the Grouse Grind a number of times.

This trail is somewhat challenging. I've completed it twice in one afternoon, but in certain places, I wish it were more difficult/challenging.

Honestly, it's too easy.

Also, there are too many slowpokes on the path. I think that up until noon the trail should be reserved for people who can complete the hike in under 50 minutes.

That's all I have.

Thanks.

Posted: March 21, 2011 12:31:36 PM PST

Jessica from Vancouver writes:

I think the Grind is awesome but $10.00 for a 5 minute ride down the mountain????

What a blatant rip off...this city is SO ridiculous. They'll get it from you one way or another.

Posted: January 3, 2011 02:13:30 PM PST

Brenda Houde from Oakville.Ontario writes:

I attempted The Grind on Aug 28/10 and completed only 1/4 of the climb and had to give up and turn around...I was very upset with myself because I knew I could do this....so on Aug 30/10 I tried agin and completed the climb in 1hr 45mins....I am so proud of myself...I told my best fried that I was going to climb The Grind and she laughted at me...that was not nice!!!!!

Posted: November 17, 2010 06:49:48 AM PST

Ed Bourgaize from Calgary writes:

As others have commented, the grind is steep, ugly, enrelenting and uninspiring scenery populated by way too many pushy people. I LOVE IT. I try to do it every time I'm in Vancouver. If you want a pleasant walk in the woods to commune with nature, or you're scared of a little hard effort, go somewhere else (as I also do), but if you want a 900 meter high stairmaster with fresh air and a real sense of accomplishment, the GRIND is the only game in town.

Posted: November 3, 2010 03:59:21 PM PST

Willi Baumann from Germany writes:

My wife and I hiked up the Grind this weekend and we were absolutely shocked about the aggressiveness of lots of "grinders". Shoving yourself in front of people who in front of you is definitely not the way to go! A woman overtaking me in a very steep and narrow part didn't watch where she was placing her hiking pole, ramming the tip into my foot.
Then others breathing in your neck trying to pass- guess not thinking about the consequences if the person in front of them slips and falls backwards???

I guess most people don't know how to behave in alpine terrain....

Posted: October 5, 2010 08:12:41 AM PST

Tierney Diggens from Vancouver writes:

I am so proud of my hubby who does the grind weekly, rain or shine. He is so proud of his time of just over an hour...he is 64 and paces himself sensibly and is not out to impress anyone but himself (and perhaps me...LOL!) Will I ever join him? Not likely but I will always appreciate his efforts and the beautiful smile upon his face every time he returns!

Posted: September 26, 2010 04:48:05 AM PST

Leo Levasseur from Burnaby writes:

Anyone know where I can get an online map of the BCMC trail?

Posted: September 22, 2010 09:09:41 PM PST

RPB from Armstrong writes:

The Grouse Grind should not be called a hike. It's only good for people wanting a severe cardio workout as the stairs are too high (stairs are not helpful on hiking trails in the first place on most trails) and you're so busy puffing that you don't get to enjoy the scenery much at all. If you want a pleasant jaunt this trail just isn't for you. I personally hated it. The only reward is the cheaper gondola ride down from the top. Take the new BCMC trail if you actually want to enjoy yourself on the way up to the top of Grouse - it's longer but nowhere near as evil! I've also heard the Chief is superior as well.

Posted: August 22, 2010 06:41:47 PM PST

Robert Medsger from Walnut Creek, CA writes:

I did the Grind last week with a bunch of runners, and we raced to the top. It was one of the hardest things I've done. If it's too easy, go faster. It can be one hell of a workout.

The crowds did get a little annoying. It's very hard to pass people at certain sections.

Overall great hike. 41 minutes to the top.

Posted: August 19, 2010 09:10:52 AM PST

Jen from Surrey writes:

I agree with hobby hiker - the Chief is waaaaaaaaaaay better! It's actually a hike, not a nature walk like the Grind.

I finally did the GG for the first time after years of cajoling. I'm never doing it again. If I'm gonna drive an hour to the North Shore, I wanna do a real hike - not stare at somebody's sweaty butt for an hour!

Posted: August 14, 2010 04:49:15 PM PST

Bill Tyler from Soda Springs, Idaho writes:

Hobby,

The hike is as hard as you want it to be. If you think it is too easy you didn't push yourself to make it difficult. Try it again and see if you can beat your initial time by about 10 minutes.

I do, however, agree that it can be crowded.

Posted: August 9, 2010 09:17:30 AM PST

hobby hiker from Naramata writes:

This hike is so overrated! It's not warranting of a "difficult" rating at all in my opinion, not in comparison to the difficulty of much longer, more technical hikes like the Chief and Lynn Peak and the Lions. It's overrated, overused and a 10 dollar gondola ride down? I'll not be trekking this trail again anytime soon. Too busy, too boring, too expensive. I should have gone to yoga class instead.

Posted: August 1, 2010 12:18:24 AM PST

Sha from Vancouver writes:

Today is Friday but there were still many hikers on Grouse Grind. I tried the new BCMC trail with my daughter and we loved it! BCMC trail is a little longer than Grouse Grind, but much less crowded. Highly recommend this trail as an alternative to Grouse Grind!

Posted: July 30, 2010 05:38:14 PM PST

Sha from Vancouver writes:

I have been hiking G.G. with my kids for a couple of years. First time we hiked it when my son was 5 years old. It took about 90 minutes with a few breaks at each of the Quarter mark, now we could manage going up to the top without break in about 52 minutes. It seems the trail is gaining its popularity every year. We hiked it last weekend - it's too crowded. There may be less hikers in the weekdays? I plan to hike Goat Mountain tomorrow, but will take BCMC trail instead of G.G. to get up to Grouse Mountain.

Posted: July 29, 2010 10:02:55 PM PST

Jolene from Burnaby writes:

I went on the grouse grind in June. I'm not a hiker and I thought I was going to die. Once you did it you feel so healthy and proud of yourself for doing it.

Posted: July 28, 2010 05:14:18 PM PST

phl Jerome from Shreveport, la writes:

My wife completed this trail. I'm so proud of her! Way to work babes muah love ya

Posted: July 25, 2010 08:33:42 AM PST

Richard Szabo from Penticton BC writes:

I've heard of the Grouse Grind for years but never had the chance to venture up it until last week. I sure wish I found this sooner!! I loved the climb as I like chalenging myself. I made it from the bottom tag marker to the top marker in 46:09. I now have a goal for the next time to do it in under 45 min. I just wish the start of the downhill trail was better marked as I ended up running down the main logging road and ended up in Lynn Valley! A fair distance away from where I started!!

Posted: July 24, 2010 09:58:41 PM PST

Harjot Kataria from Vancouver writes:

The bcmc trail which runs alongside the Grouse Grind is a nice alternative for those looking for a change. It's not quite as steep but is a little longer and a LOT quieter. Well marked once you're on the trail.

The starting point is at the same junction where the Baden Powell Trail splits from the Grouse Grind (three trails meet at this point, the middle one is the bcmc)

Posted: July 10, 2010 10:30:54 AM PST

TODD from St Albert, AB writes:

I did the grind this week for only the second time. This is truly one of the best hikes in Canada you can do, and the feeling of accomplishment as you look down at Stanley Park from the top is worth the trip. The first time it took me an hour and twenty minutes, but this time I managed to eek out a 1:07 but have to say it took a lot of work, and the thighs were burning hard by the 3 quarter mark. For those looking for a scenic walk in the bushes, this is not a trip you should try. All that is to be seen from most of the path is trees, rock, and steps...and more steps. There is a decent view of a waterfall about half way up, but there really isnt a place to stop and picnic, and you likely wouldnt make it up to the spot with a pack full of cheese doodles and soda.

Posted: May 12, 2010 07:42:05 PM PST

Al Mishima from Honolulu, HI writes:

Best hike I've ever experienced. This is far superior and more challenging than the hike tourist take in Hawaii, the Diamond Head Lookout.

I've hiked this twice and will attempt to do so every year when visiting Vancouver, BC.

Posted: May 6, 2010 11:17:51 AM PST

Charlotte from Houston writes:

After first reading about the Grind I knew I would have to do this before I left Vancouver. I picked the Thanksgiving weekend so I would have extra time to recover...

Having only four hours of sleep (couldn't sleep) the night before the climb I was very nervous especially after reading at 2 a.m. that it was over 2,000 "steps" which is really a nice name for boulders, rocks, branches, etc. My mind was playing tricks on me so it convinced me I should have my travel insurance card and emergency contacts with me in case I had a coronary. My friend and trainer who went with me was so great and told me I didn't need that.

But, wow that climb was just as the name implies...grinding, climbing, grunting, panting, measured breaths....moments of asking yourself "why are you doing this to your knees...."

However, when it was all over I was so happy, yet stunned that I actually did it. The views are beautiful and yes you definitely need a change of clothes. It was October 10 and my head was soaking wet.

Tips that my trainer told me which turned out to be good ones: When stopping don't look up because you will be daunted by what is ahead. Look down and see what you've just accomplished. It is almost better to keep one's head down and take it one step at a time and concentrate just on that moment, that boulder. Be positive. YOu will be passed by people who think it is no big deal but remember it is a big deal especially for Grind Virgins.

Be happy and be proud of yourself.

Posted: October 12, 2009 09:05:14 AM PST

Antonio from Burnaby writes:

I would like to say, this Grouse Grind is the ultimate challenge of testing yourself , so called the "the agony of defeat" At first of knowledge of its existence , scare the hell out of me of staring at this mountain, and even completing it,never alone attempting it for the challenge of endurance of mankind and personal quest.
I have done this mountain now 7 times this year and it calls me to the challenge every time . I have improved my time since beginning of 2hrs and a half, down to recent 1hr and 10 minutes, what a challenge. To me that is great for the body and mind and soul.
Now I am going to make it lower than that last time ,1hour or lower next time out this week, I must! I must! Italian Stallion, Rocky.

Posted: October 5, 2009 08:03:04 PM PST

richard william from london,on writes:

what's with the grind? straight up a mountain for 2 hours..is it the air that makes vancouverities do such nonsense.

Posted: September 17, 2009 10:21:07 PM PST

Rob from Baltimore, MD writes:

Did the grind for the first time today! It was awesome. My time was 1 hr 36 minutes. I am VERY glad that I chose to wear hiking boots over tennis shoes. The terrain is pretty rough. Lots of rocks and tree roots. Having the ankle support was good as was the harder soles.

I'll definitely be back!

Posted: August 31, 2009 10:50:37 PM PST

Ellen Z from Portland, OR writes:

My friend and I hiked the Grind last Friday. It was a pretty killer hike for me since I have a bad knee and asthma, but it was worth it. I recommend this hike for anyone who wants to challenge themselves both physically and mentally. Bring 2 bottles of water and a dry shirt for the top. Please be kind to slower hikers (like me) and give some warning if you're going to pass on the left side of the trail - it's very narrow in some places and it's easy to lose your footing with tired legs. The view at the top is awesome but the beer is expensive.

Posted: August 30, 2009 11:15:53 PM PST

Herve from Nottingham, UK writes:

I did the grind this saturday. I didn't know what to expect and was equipped to continue further (backpack, change of clothes, waterproofs, food and drink), but I managed 49 min., taking it easy at the beginning to pace myself and navigate the traffic but walking briskly for the last part where I could. I really enjoyed this; the view, for sure, but mainly the effort if I am honest (the fog made the view a bit limited sadly, although there were quite a few hikers going up, some hitting their limits and also poorly equipped). I paused at the cafe on top and pushed on to Grouse, Dam and Little Goat before turning back as with running gear only, a small backpack and a limited map I felt it was safer to do so. I must come back to push all the way to Crown; and to improve my time up the grind. This is a a lovely place and I can only imagine how beautiful the views must be.

P.S. A useful tip for all is to take a spare shirt to change after the grind. I was equipped and changed into a Helly Hansen to push on as it was getting cool with the fog. Even in summer this may be advisable.

Posted: August 17, 2009 11:01:08 AM PST

RM from Calgary, AB writes:

My first time to do the Grouse Grind this past weekend without doing my Google homework. I only came upon this website today. But I've done a few hikes before and so I came to the Grind with expectations.

Shocked to see that it was more vertical and the trails do not zig-zag longer. I think they should add to Gate notice that the Trail is rated "Difficult" along with the Distance/Elevation Gain so newbie hikers like me get that info from the base. Without info, I was not surprised to see a toddler or even month-old newborn being carried up the "Difficult" trail.

Also a warning to those new to the Grind that loose stones can come down right at you if you happen to do a rest stop almost directly above other stops.
I was hit by one of those stones on my foot saved by my runners but one could have easily hit me on the head.

Posted: July 27, 2009 07:46:47 PM PST

Jeffrey Ai from Vancouver writes:

I've hiked this trail for 4 times. The good thing of this trail is :
* Lots of attractions on the top(bears, lumberjack show, bird-of-prey show, theatre, hang gliding, and free cable car for skiers in winter)
* No need to go downhill because you could spend 5$ to take cable car

The bad thing of this trail is nothing spectacular to see on the trail itself. It's just climbing and climbing.

Posted: June 1, 2009 07:47:59 PM PST

Elvia Russell from Surrey writes:

Every summer, as soon as Grouse opens, I love to go and hike it at least once a week. It's a fantastic workout. I burn more calories hiking Grouse than I do on any other type of exercise. Even being on the treadmill for 45 minutes doesn't do what Grouse does for me.
The scenery of course is absolutely beautiful. It's SO WORTH IT. Can not wait till it opens.

Posted: May 4, 2009 01:40:09 PM PST

Jason Tan from North Vancouver writes:

My friend and I heard the Grouse Grind opened last week, so we hiked it this morning. The trail is completely clear of snow but there are some muddy sections near the top.

I found out today that if you have a season's pass to ride the gondola back down, you can drop off a bag and they'll take it to the top for you. This is great because we don't have to pack a change of clothes with us, we can drop them at the bottom and they'll be waiting for us when we finish the Grind.

Posted: June 17, 2008 05:18:13 PM PST