Comments

Doug B from Richmond writes:

Hiked up the BCMC trail on March 29th. Just over 2 hours for us (55+) to get up to the Chalet and took the $20 gondola ride down. Last quarter had hard packed snow. Micro-spikes would be good, but did it with runners / boots. Trail markers numbered 1 to 50 so you can know where you are. Nice steep hike, good workout. Saw about 15 people along the way.

Posted: March 31, 2022 09:57:16 AM PST

Larry from Surrey writes:

Hiked BCMC 9 Aug 21: Bear about 10-15’ from me half way up. Very healthy non-aggressive 2-3 year old boar. He approached me slowly (not stalking) - my yelling had no effect. Hiker 50 yards below me got his attention. When this hiker removed her pack to retrieve her “bear horn”, the animal slowly ambled his way on a direct line to her. Horn blew…bear looked disgusted, and ambled down the mountain. Conclusion: we have bear feeding lunatics hiking these trails. This animal thought there was a snack coming out of that backpack. It would be tempting to carry a can of bear spray next time, and use it on any clowns feeding these animals.

Posted: August 10, 2021 08:53:19 AM PST

k Mac from Vancouver writes:

re TRAIL CLOSURE: anyone know an ETA for BCMC re-opening fully this summer?

this is a local fave for me, frequenting it as often as once a week during some periods over the last 10 years. love it for the intense output and strength required to climb it at pace, and tht I can hike back down or choose to take the gondola if I'm up for forking out the dough.
it has however gotten MUCH busier in recent years, for several reasons (pandemic, grind closures, instagram outdoorsiness) and as a result the condition of the trail has been drastically impacted. so much erosion, and a dusty trail surface in many spots when it used to be cush & loamy nearly the whole way up.
I still love it, and will continue to revisit it, but I'm hoping the recent trail work will mean an improved experience, even if not quite back to its state of 5 - 10 yrs ago.
also VERY MUCH looking forward to the trail work being complete so it will be open on weekdays again.

Posted: July 11, 2021 08:16:09 PM PST

vanhiker from Vancouver writes:

Did part of this BCMC trail in July 2019. Started on the Baden Powell trail for 1 km then went up the Larsen trail. Larsen is a nice quiet steep mountain trail with no one else. It is very rocky with lots of roots. There is many places to stop and rest. About 3/4 up the mountain, Larsen merges with BCMC trail and gets a bit busier with up and down traffic. This route is about 4km and takes almost 2 hours. Visit the grizzlies at the top.

Posted: July 13, 2019 11:23:10 AM PST

Emily from Ontario writes:

Chose to do this instead of the Grouse Grind because I heard it was quieter and a more interesting/technical hike and it didn't disappoint! Definitely a physical challenge but you can take it as slow as you need to. Saw maybe 10-12 other people on the trail, a few of whom were hiking back down (this was midday on a weekday).

Posted: June 9, 2019 11:43:27 AM PST

Hiker from Surrey writes:

This was a hard hike it took my wife and I just under 2.5 hours. It was exhausting and lung burning and it kept my heart rate up the entire time but, we loved it and will continue doing it until we too can finish in 1.5 hours. It’s climbing the whole way and only levels out at 1000 metres from the top. We will regularly do this hike now and will bring our kids with us next time. We will conquer St Marks Summit next!

Posted: May 31, 2019 06:13:29 PM PST

Kim from Vancouver writes:

As a local I thought it would respond to some of the comments below. This hike is definitely a workout, so make sure to wear proper shoes (hikers or trail shoes), as the roots and rocks can be slippery if wet. To the comment regarding altitude sickness, you can't get altitude sickness at 1,200m (the height of Grouse Mountain); however, it is a tiring hike so if you feel light headed or dizzy, make sure to stop, drink water, and take your time completing the hike. I would only recommend this hike to those that are in good health. With regard to the downward direction, you are not allowed to hike down the Grouse Grind, which is next to the BCMC; I believe technically you are able to hike down the BCMC, but I wouldn't recommend it; coming down is steep, your knees will hate you, it's narrow at times, and the loose rocks that you'll kick up won't be very nice for those coming up the mountain :)

Posted: May 6, 2019 05:30:00 PM PST

Shera from Vancouver writes:

Steepest climb ever. Warm up sufficiently. Definitively have to do it more than once.

Posted: April 29, 2019 07:14:17 AM PST

Paige from Ontario writes:

View at the top is amazing, however, I wish the employees would warn people before ascending the mountain. All I was told is it would take me about 2 hours. Was not warned it was 2 hours of steep stair climbing with no level areas. I’m a seasoned hiker and found this pretty challenging. Also was not warned about potential for altitude sickness which I ended up suffering from once at the top and didn’t recover until a week later. When purchasing the gondola tickets for the ride down I was told hiking down the mountain is not allowed but I didnt see a single sign posted explaining this.

Posted: April 28, 2019 02:46:05 PM PST

John A from Surrey writes:

Went there today for Grouse grind but was closed due to poor weather but luckily BCMC is open. I didn't expected to be challenging I've done the grind but bcmc is about the same. You can see the snow up near the chalet 400-500meters before you reach the top.

Posted: April 14, 2019 12:09:36 AM PST

Amanda from Vancouver writes:

I did it yesterday morning (April 11). There is hard-packed snow at the top but most of the trail is clear and in good condition. You might want to bring spikes but you can do it without.

Posted: April 12, 2019 07:57:02 AM PST

Michaela from Vancouver writes:

Has anyone done this hike recently? Looking to do this weekend and curious about snow

Posted: April 11, 2019 07:14:04 AM PST

Jenna from Vancouver writes:

Did the trail last weekend. Bottom part is now very icy after the melting of some of the recent snowfall, but then it gets nicer with softer snow as you ascend. Recommend good hiking boots, and microspikes/poles especially if you are going to come back down the trail. Some people went up without spikes, but I wouldn't feel comfortable myself. And definitely wouldn't descend without spikes. Pretty easy to follow the snow trail at the moment so no risk of getting lost.

Posted: March 6, 2019 09:29:37 AM PST

Rowan from White Rock writes:

Did it today and there was only a bout 5 inches of snow but the trail itself was completely fine.
Nice trail enjoy something a little more difficult without having to commit 4 hours to.

Posted: November 24, 2018 10:08:33 PM PST

rr from vancouver writes:

Why do u hike grouse? BCMC is parallel to grouse and the landscape is amazingly beautiful. The roots literally hugging the soil and its an amazing creation of God. Beautiful, good for beginner to intermediate. This is one of the best trails close to Vancouver.

Posted: August 3, 2018 06:05:44 PM PST

Paul from Switzerland writes:

Did the hiking trail today and it was great. We first missed the right turn at the second junction and ended up on the Baden Powell trail. Had to walk back to find the right turn. Many people we passed did the same mistake so be sure to take the right direction at the second junktion since for us the signs were not that clear. Once found we had a very nice hike. Nevertheless the first part of the hike is steep. We did it in runners but hiking shoes are recommended especially under wet conditions. Since the Grouse Grind is closed for another 2 to 3 weeks we recommend to choose a weekday over the weekend if you prefer to have a peaceful hike as we did...

Posted: June 11, 2018 05:32:44 PM PST

Lion Tamer from Vancouver writes:

Did this hike for the first time on June 2nd. With the grind closed, the trail was quite busy (at times, it feels more like a disneyland queue than a hike). The trail itself is quite torn up from high use, but it's well marked and easy to follow. There are a couple points where there are deviating paths, but just look at the abundant tree markers and you'll be fine.

The hike also suffers from people trying to beat their best time. People trying to push their way past you on a skinny path, while others are practically running down the mountain makes for a stressful hike at times.

All in all, this hike is a good choice for those looking for a workout alternative to the grind, but not great for anyone looking for a peaceful hike through the mountains. Good thing there are dozens of others nearby!

Posted: June 3, 2018 09:42:32 AM PST

Ajit from Austin, Texas writes:

Wanted to do the Grouse Grind trail. But it was closed due to maintenance. So did this instead. Glad that I did not go back after hearing that the Grind trail was closed.

Posted: June 2, 2018 10:31:01 AM PST

Rrj from Vancouver writes:

Is the trail well marked?

Posted: May 25, 2018 12:42:24 PM PST

Anna from Richmond writes:

This was a GREAT alternative to the Grouse Grind. Had such a peaceful hike alone without the rush of a crowd. This hike is easier in a way...but still a challenge, especially the first half. I found from 3/4 of the way was super easy and you get a nice break till you reach the top! Note from the 3/4 mark up, there is still snow..so be careful. There were a couple of parts where the snow completely covers the trail so watch your markers! And you also have to walk over the snow the rest of the way up and I found it to be slippery and super muddy in some areas where you get a patch with no snow. The snow made the rest of the hike nice and cool though which was much needed after sweating half the time lol.
You can also hike this down if you wanted to which you would probably need hiking poles for!
Also, lots of little parts where going up, mostly the 1st half where I found it to be a little dangerous so watch your footing. Other than that, this is a nice break from the grind!!!!!

Posted: May 6, 2018 08:57:37 PM PST

Farzan from Burnaby writes:

I love the BCMC, certainly a million times more than the grind.
You have to understand, due to the popularity of the grind thousands and thousands of people visit that trail and it is certainly more like a natural gym rather than a hike. BCMC is a little longer but certainly as challenging and a lot fewer people and steps. Nature is gorgeous, and the trail is peaceful. Keep in mind thou, even in May it was in snow about 2/3 of the way up. Also less maintained so be mindful of your gear and if you are planning to go down bring hiking poles (your knees will thank you) and Please keep your puppies on a leash, I know how tempting it is to let the little buggers roam free.
Loved every bit of it thou and will certainly attempt it again.

Posted: May 3, 2018 07:03:21 PM PST

Nicole from West Vancouver writes:

Good workout completed the trail in 49 mins. Please if you bring your dog READ THE SIGNAGE!!!! DOGS ARE ONLY ALOWED ON LEASH!!! This is not the first time I have encountered rude people with dogs running uncontrolled off leash- one ran right in to me and if I didn't have proper footing would have totally knocked me over down causing me to fall into a gully! If your going to bring your dogs keep them controlled and on leash - have some respect for your fellow hikers!

Posted: September 24, 2017 03:33:01 PM PST

Esther from Langley writes:

Took this trail to come down after doing the Grind to go up. We asked Grouse Mountain staff about the trail, they told us it was poorly marked, which wasn't at all true (maybe they were trying to get us to pay for the gondola?) Some sections are quite steep and because it's not as well engineered as the Grind, you have to pay close attention to where you put your feet. I did it in runners but would recommend boots or trail shoes. If you don't want to pay for the gondola, or simply want to extend your hiking time at Grouse, recommend the BCMC!

Posted: September 17, 2017 03:50:49 PM PST

Tiago from Norh Vancouver writes:

I love this trail... less man built stairs than the Grind and lots of nature...

Posted: September 14, 2017 09:44:52 AM PST

crossover from Vancouver, BC writes:

Great alternative to the Grind...way less people and the trail is more rugged (feels more like hiking than just climbing stairs). The trail felt a bit more leveled out after marker #80. I carried a heavier backpack than most people because I want to use this opportunity to gauge my hike to the Garibaldi Lake. It took me just over two hrs to finish. Great workout!

Posted: August 7, 2017 12:58:53 PM PST

Xiaoyu from Richmond writes:

Great hike with lots of switchbacks and some difficult sections but nothing overwhelming. Quietness on the trail a great respite from the sometimes very raucous Grouse Grind.

Did the return trip down - poles really helped.

Posted: July 13, 2017 12:13:39 PM PST

Kris from West Vancouver writes:

The bcmc begins step. Gained 896m in elevation over 2.3k around 500m the switchbacks start which made the trail seem less steep. This trail is very rugged with lots of large rocks and roots - recommend sturdy footwear. Definitely do NOT recommend to anyone looking for peaceful hike it was so busy it seemed like cattle hiking up. At one point there was a couple with a large dog off leash coming down the trail. The dog was way infront and left totally uncontrolled, it ran right up to me, jumped and almost knocked me over at a very steep section with a direct dropff! The rude couple did not even apologize. Awsome views once you reach the cut. Grouse mountain was packed and I found the employees of grouse mountain to be extremely unhelpful and rude. The BCMC is a good workout and not a bad trail, if it was less busy. Note there is no water fountain or refil station at the beginning of the mountain or at the top! Bottled water is available but was sold out!

Posted: July 5, 2017 08:45:54 PM PST

Jen Gee from Vancouver writes:

New signage made the trail easy to follow - up, up, up the mountain! Trail is in fairly good shape with minor erosion and some scrambling in spots. Still a busier route than most Vancouver trails but no where near the gong show of the Grouse Grind. It's a great cardiovascular work out with a beautiful view (& maybe a local brew) to reward yourself with. As others have recommended, we left our dog at home.

Posted: July 3, 2017 08:06:00 PM PST

Lucas from Vancouver writes:

While the trail is dog friendly, please note: NO DOGS ARE ALLOWED THE GROUSE MOUNTAIN SKYRIDE.

Posted: July 1, 2017 06:34:44 PM PST

Alice from Vancouver writes:

Suggestion: Best not to indicate that this hike is dog friendly unless it also clearly explains that if you bring your dog you will need to do the return trip down the trail (it's not a one way hike) since dogs are not permitted on the gondola. It could be a problem if people aren't aware it this. Thanks

Posted: May 13, 2017 02:49:51 PM PST

Alice from Vancouver writes:

Suggestion: Best not to indicate that this hike is dog friendly unless it also clearly explains that if you bring your dog you will need to do the return trip down the trail (it's not a one way hike) since dogs are not permitted on the gondola. It could be a problem if people aren't aware it this. Thanks

Posted: May 8, 2017 11:24:39 PM PST

Robert from Tsawwassen writes:

I've been doing this trail for more than 15 years but have been away for the past three or more because life. We were really surprised to see how bad the trail has gotten. Massive erosion and root exposure, and in several places rebar originally meant to hold steps in place now protrudes dangerously like a spike waiting to get someone unlucky enough to fall on it. It needs maintenance badly, especially now that a lot of the people who used to run back down the Grind are now taking the BCMC down because they aren't allowed to do so the Grind.

Posted: November 13, 2016 06:18:18 PM PST

Grace from Vancouver writes:

This trail went terribly. At the first intersection, we went followed a sign which pointed to the 'parking lot' but it got us lost. We were following these orange tags on the trees, but it actually turned out that they were probably old trail signs that were not in use anymore. Thankfully, there were a few guys behind us that also followed that same sign, so we weren't alone in case anything happened. So, we were off the beaten path for the first part of the trail, and it was really dangerous, because it consisted of just a really steep hill in which we ended up scrambling down on more hands and feet for many parts. Fortunately, after a while we spotted a few hikers (on the actual trail) and merged up with them. For the rest of the way, it went pretty good, a substantially less number of hikers compared to the grind.

Posted: September 1, 2016 04:00:44 PM PST

Joan from Sydney, Australia writes:

I climbed up the Grouse Grind and for some added variety, went down the hill via the BCMC track. It was way less polluted with people and voices than the Grind as expected and after seeing the hordes of people at the top of the resort area, it was almost a haven being able to walk in a meditative state uninterrupted by other people's chatter and heavy breathing. Recommended as a good, short but sporty walk to get the blood pumping. Even better, it is easily accessible by public transport.

Posted: July 31, 2016 03:22:47 AM PST

L&L from Vancouver writes:

Why anybody would do the actual Grind over the BCMC is beyond me. Grind is overcrowded, you have someone's butt in your face the whole time and it's overly groomed (in the sense that it is all built in steps). The BCMC does have some steps, but the overall trail is much more rough, natural and technically challenging. It is what I call a hike, not a staircase filled with tourists, many of whom really don't know what they are getting themselves into. BCMC offers some tough sections and you have to keep aware of the roots and rocks underfoot. I do it with my border collie, and thus we must hike back down as well since dogs are not permitted on the gondola. Hiking down is more technically challenging than the ascent as there are so many opportunities to trip and fall. However, this is what I enjoy about hiking. Going up, takes about 1.5 hours at a casual pace but you can really get your blood pumping simply by going faster, another aspect I enjoy about this sparsely travelled route. It is well marked, easy to follow and offers a good workout without the hordes who are tackling the Grind just to the west. Highly recommend for anyone who truly enjoys hiking in relative solitude, with a challenge for the legs and lungs. My dog, who is very fit, is knackered after the BCMC. If you have out of town guests who have heard they "must do The Grind" do them a favour and take them up BCMC.

Posted: July 18, 2016 11:27:08 PM PST

Tami-Lynn Matheson from North Vancouver writes:

Did this trail a few days ago and would recommend it for those who enjoy a rougher more natural hike than the Grouse Grind. There are way less built in stairs due to less trail destruction you excessive foot traffic . This is a little longer and as difficult as the Grind without the tourists in flip flops . The biting flies at the top were no funcertain but they kept us moving:) Be safe , have a great workout and keep your eyes on the little orange trail markers .

Posted: July 18, 2016 09:25:45 AM PST

Richard Nicolas from Vancouver writes:

Did this hike with my friend after we hiked up the Grouse grind and after failed attempting Crown mountain (due to snow). Before going down the trail, there will be a sign saying "Downhill Travel not advisable due to very steep terrain and poorly marked trails. Those choosing to travel down this trail do so at their own risk". However, for people that do go up the grind and have went downhill hiking several times, this trail is no problem at all. Took us about 50 minutes just to get down the trail but it sure was worth it! You save yourself $10 and can have a nice big dinner for a reward instead of a gondola ride!!!

Posted: June 26, 2016 09:59:16 PM PST

Dave from Langley writes:

To hike down the BCMC (if you go up the Grind), turn right (East) after the big slab of rock at the top of the Grind but before the chalet. Stay on the path/road for a couple of minutes and look for the BCMC trail sign to the right. For the first part going down you follow pipes. Look for the orange trail markers. It took me an hour to go down. Time will vary of course. Well worth it for the quad workout. This is not for beginners. Watch for roots, rocks, and uneven parts. Plus it is steep in places. Any rain makes it slippery. Route finding going down is relatively easy. More difficult if you hike up the BCMC. No real problem though. Look for the path, and also look for the orange markers.

Posted: May 2, 2016 10:34:51 AM PST

John from Burnaby writes:

Little on the muddy side immediately following/during rain, but basically clear now. Last of the packed snow is rapidly clearing and my last trip up was in regular shoes. Trail's in pretty good shape.

Posted: April 18, 2016 11:10:21 AM PST

Carlie from Vancouver writes:

Did this hike yesterday and the conditions were clear all the way up until you get to the "plateau" of the hike at the top (last 10 mins or so). The trail becomes a little creek by the pipes which turns into a bit of snow and ends with quite a bit of snow. I'd recommend wearing hiking boots or at least waterproof shoes and be prepared to step/fall in deep snow!

Posted: April 9, 2016 02:00:48 PM PST

Susan from North Vancouver writes:

Thinking of doing the BCMC hike this Sunday - any comments on its condition?

Posted: April 6, 2016 02:30:24 PM PST

Chris from Surrey writes:

Hello everyone. I have a few questions about the BCMC tail in the winter.

I read somewhere there is another start to the trail for when the gate is closed that is located just east. Can anyone confirm this?

Is it frowned upon hiking the BCMC trail in winter time?

what are the (best) hiking options going back down?

There is very limited information i could find when it comes to winter hiking this trail, so I would very much appreciate any input. thanks!

Posted: January 24, 2016 02:50:04 PM PST

Peter from New Westminster writes:

this is my weekly trail, I go from early in the season to end of season. I am up there every Monday or Tuesday.
I like that it is not so groomed as the Grind, I am not a big fan of what it has become so I was told about the BCMC 2 years ago and have been enjoying it ever since.

Posted: October 21, 2015 08:54:00 AM PST

Kaylea from vancouver writes:

It usually takes me 1 hour to complete the Grind, this took me 3 hours, and I found it way more difficult than the grind.I followed the orange markers to the best of my ability, there were times where I could see no visible trail and no trail markers.

It was a lovely, less crowded hike. The top was extremely steep. where the trail splits at the base to the BCMC trail there's a white marker stating that it is a 25 minute hike up. If your a regular human that is just not happening. Approximately 1.5-2 hours from that point.

Posted: September 27, 2015 09:57:35 AM PST

Elizabeth from BELLINGHAM writes:

can anyone please clarify if one needs a day pass to park for the Grouse Grind.

Alternatively does anyone have any comments about taking the bus from Lonsdale Quay regarding quality of experience, timing, and logistics as compared to driving and parking at the trial head.

many thanks!!

Posted: September 9, 2015 09:20:57 AM PST

Gini K from North Haven, CT writes:

I am amazed that the estimated hiking time is 1.5 hours. Yes, the trail is only 3km (1.8 miles to visitros from the US). The formula for estimating hiking time in the White Mountains guide published by the Appalachian Mountain Club calls for 2 miles per hour for distance PLUS a half hour for every thousand feet of elevation gain. Using that formula, which has served me well hiking in New Hampshire, the estimated time for hiking would be 3.22 hrs. So don't feel bad if you can't make it in 1.5 hours.

On the whole, this is a very good trail. However, some of the upper portions are very eroded. There are lots of exposed roots, which call for careful foot placement. Route finding (no pun intended) can be complicated by a significant number of blow downs.

Posted: August 9, 2015 09:36:24 AM PST

Brande from Delta writes:

BCMC is my new go-to trail.

The workout is fantastic - it is up, and up, and up .. and up.

It is not at all crowded but yet enough people that as a solo female hiker I do not feel isolated on the trail.

The root and rocks give you lots of options for where you want to put your feet (unlike the Grind where the wooden steps dictate how you hike).

I honestly dont think I will ever do the Grind again now that I have discovered the wonderful BCMC.

A note to newbies.. when you get hear the top, around marker 133 I think, there is a small pink sign on a tree giving you options or right or left. Go left if you want the Gondola.

Posted: August 4, 2015 11:54:40 AM PST

Nikki from Halifax writes:

First time hiking the BCMC - Trail is in good shape and not too crowded for a Sunday afternoon.

Posted: June 21, 2015 02:20:56 PM PST

Ross from Northshore writes:

Just done our first family hike up BCMC. Definitely far less crowded than the Grind, so much more enjoyable if you are with a 6 year old who needs regular breaks. Trail is in great condition with only a bit of mud from c marker 140 onwards. Bonus was no queue for the ride down - was expecting a longer wait on Mothers Day.

Posted: May 10, 2015 04:05:49 PM PST

Barbara from Surrey writes:

It did a lot of raining today. Will the trail be too muddy to hike it tomorrow?

Posted: September 19, 2014 06:21:35 PM PST

Larson from Surrey writes:

Considering that the grind has become a monotonous stair climb cluttered with tourists, I enjoyed my first hike up the BCMC a lot.

BCMC's drawbacks (compared to the Grind) make it unsuitable for tourists and novices:
- less well-marked; easier to go wrong way
- inconsistent footing and pace (no steps)
- more muddy and slippery
- fewer hikers to help you with logistical or medical problems

Posted: July 28, 2014 04:29:12 PM PST

Susan from Vancouver writes:

Caution: Only partially dog friendly. The info summary states that the trail is dog friendly. The trail can take dogs, but dogs are NOT allowed on the Grouse Mountain resort property. Dogs will NOT be allowed on the gondola. The owners have animals up there and do not want any chance that they will be harassed. I suspect that they have other reasons. When I was considering purchasing a year pass, I was told I would not be allowed to bring my 4.5 pound Chihuaha on the gondola even if she was enclosed in a dog bag. So, if you bring your dog, be prepared to walk back down.

Miss bringing my dog, but do enjoy this trail.

Posted: July 19, 2014 11:45:20 AM PST

Helena from North Vancouver writes:

Just did it today,great hike with 4 boys (ages 6, 9, 9, 12)(teacher strike day!) It was great...not too hard for the kids, none complained - and not too busy. It took us about 1 hr 40mins, older boys were probably up in 1hr 25mins..... I let them go ahead as they have been before. The red BCMC markers are a great distraction - eg. we will stop at marker #50 for a snack etc. I prefer to do grind when not busy and without the kids, so this is a great alternative.

Posted: June 11, 2014 02:49:51 PM PST

Kirsten from Vancouver writes:

Just a head's up -- there is a large white sign on the Baden Powell trail that identifies the BCMC Trail at the split. Once you're on the trail, the markers are red squares with some orange ones. The red squares are clearly marked with "BCMC" on them.

I went up with my partner today -- no more snow and a light crowd of people (~25 people) on the trail with us. It was definitely squishy at the top with today's rain and the snow melt. We'll be back out now that we know what we are looking for. :)

Posted: May 25, 2014 04:09:33 PM PST

Scott Neufeld from Vancouver writes:

Just as a follow up to my own post we hiked BCMC this afternoon/evening, left bottom at 6:40ish and had no problems. Nice hike, very similar to the grind. Little bit of snow/ice on the very top, flat section of the trail. The grind is still technically closed so to access the trailhead, just use one of the "around the fence" entrances. Oh and the gravel parking lot is now pay parking as well (as of this afternoon...they just installed the meters). $4 for the day, $2 for 3 hours

Posted: May 16, 2014 11:33:54 PM PST

Scott Neufeld from Vancouver writes:

Planning to go up the BCMC this afternoon (aiming for start 6:15pm...). Anyone been up recently and can give a heads up on conditions/whether 6:15 is too late to start?

thanks!

Posted: May 16, 2014 10:39:12 AM PST

Penny from Vancouver writes:

The majority of the BCMC Trail is equally as challenging as the Grind. It does level out a bit around the final fifth giving you a chance to catch your breath. The steps are less uniform than the Grind so there is more scrambling over roots and rocks. It's really important to watch for the orange markers, as there aren't as many people to follow and there are multiple switchbacks. Took me one hour 40 at a relatively slow pace.

Posted: August 17, 2013 12:46:39 PM PST

Anonymous from Vancouver writes:

Really liked this trail. Got a bit bored of The Grind so we thought we'd try this one out. Accidentally got onto the Baden Powell Trail in the beginning but quickly realized we had made the mistake and tracked back to get going the right way.

Not as hard as The Grind but if you're looking for a good workout it can be had on the BCMC, just go faster! I really enjoyed the fact that this wasn't busy at all when we went a few weeks ago. The Grind always has so many people on it even when we've gone at odd times like a Friday night as the gate was being closed. Like how the trail also felt less man made than The Grind, just felt like a more natural hike. Definitely will do this one again.

Posted: July 1, 2013 10:29:17 AM PST

Angela from Surrey writes:

Hiked this a couple weeks ago and it's a bit sloshy at the top. But my hiking shoes didn't get soaked or anything. Just stepped carefully. Definitely not as hard as The Grouse Grind (did that last week and was only my 3rd time doing it in the past few years - whew! BCMC more 'fun' to do if you're not looking to work really hard lol).

Posted: June 26, 2013 04:15:27 PM PST

RC from Richmond writes:

I went up yesterday, after a heavy rainfall the previous night. The upper half of the trail was basically a stream and there's still a fair amount of snow at the top once the trail levels off. Make sure your hiking boots are waterproof.

Posted: May 24, 2013 03:09:31 PM PST

Chris from Vancouver writes:

Went up on the 20th. A little muddy in a few sections near the top but good in general. Some snow at the very top. Plan to head up again today.

Posted: May 24, 2013 09:49:22 AM PST

Jane from London writes:

Planning to hike the BCMC this weekend (May 25-26), anyone gone up recently? How did you find it? Thanks!

Posted: May 23, 2013 07:34:26 PM PST

Frederik from Vancouver writes:

Hi, I was planning on hiking the bcmc trail this weekend - has anyone hiked it recently and knows if solid boots suffice or if one should have crampons or snowshoes.

Thanks,
Frederik

Posted: February 14, 2013 02:32:30 PM PST

David from Vancouver writes:

My partner and I did this yesterday (18 November) and it was simple enough. The snow started just as the trail begins to level out as you approach the top (approx. 1000m). The steeper sections were still clear and traction was good. That will probably change soon once the snowline drops.

Plenty of others were on the trail too. The gate to the Grind is locked, however you can access the trail through the adjoining parking lot. The access trail is well marked.

Posted: November 19, 2012 01:06:04 PM PST

NW from Langley writes:

I want to do this hike this weekend... is the gate going to be locked?

Posted: November 13, 2012 09:43:22 AM PST

Judy from Van from Vancouver writes:

Agree, Mandy!

It is also longer than the Grind. You will still feel like you had a good strenuous workout. Watch out for the biting flies near the top!

Even tho it's decently marked still easy to go off piste. Keep an eye out for those markers.

Posted: September 9, 2012 05:13:39 PM PST

Mandy from Richmond writes:

Some might think this is easier than the Grind. Well, it's not. It's slightly more level than the Grind with more prominent switchbacks, but still steps all the way up. Great option for a less crowded workout!

Posted: August 15, 2012 08:26:54 AM PST