In a city known for its natural beauty and temperate coastal climate, it’s no wonder why outdoor adventure is loved by Vancouver residents and visitors alike. There are not many cities where you can go from seawall to the slopes in the same day – making Grouse Mountain a popular destination for those taking on adventure and those up for taking in the sights. Rising 1,250 meters above Vancouver and just about 20 minutes from the city’s downtown core, Grouse Mountain, offers the perfect destination for an enriching and memorable experience with a variety of cultural, educational, and outdoor adventures in the lower mainland. A year-round destination with plenty of things to see and do, no matter the season, Grouse Mountain deserves an entire day, so read on for inspiration in building your full day itinerary.
Photo courtesy of @GrouseMountain
Getting There
Overlooking the city of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is located at 6400 Nancy Greene Way in North Vancouver – about a 15 - 20 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
By Car
Follow Georgia Street through Stanley Park, cross the Lions Gate Bridge, take the North Vancouver exit to Marine Drive and take Capilano Road to reach the base of the mountain.
By Public Transit
From downtown Vancouver, take the SeaBus from Waterfront station over to Lonsdale Quay (a great way to see the city from water), then take the #236 bus for a 25-minute ride to Grouse Mountain.
Grouse Grind
Reaching the Peak
Start your adventure with the Skyride
High above towering Douglas firs, The Skyride marks the beginning of any Grouse Mountain experience. Taking visitors up to the Alpine station to capture breathtaking views of the city of Vancouver, the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Gulf Islands, and snowy peaks unfolds as you journey up the mountainside in just 8 minutes. Whether you are going up to paraglide or ice-skating above the city, your adventure begins with the Skyride.
Hike the Grouse Grind
If you’re visiting outside of winter and up for a challenge,
the Grouse Grind is a 2.9-kilometer trail up the face of Grouse Mountain,
commonly referred to as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster”. It’s a most used trail
for locals and visitors, renowned for the thigh-burning trek, requiring
physical strength and endurance to make it to the top. Not because it’s long
(technically, it’s a very short trail, 2.9 kilometers), but because it’s so
steep and most of the trail has wooden or rock steps. Challenging, but the
panoramic view at the summit will be worth it! Not sure this trek is for you? There are also a wide range of mountaintop
trails that might better suit the novice or average hiker.
Spring, Summer & Fall on the Mountain
Try your hand at Disc Golf
The 18-hole course at Grouse Mountain is located atop The
Cut, taking advantage of the mountain terrain and incredible views. Disk golf
has very similar rules of that of golf, except you use a flying disk in lieu of
golf ball and clubs – think frisbee meets golf. Discs are available for sale at
Outfitters.
Take in the views from the summit – Peak Chairlift
Within 14-minutes, Grouse Mountain’s Peak Chairlift will
take you to the summit of Grouse Mountain where you’ll find the most scenic
panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the city of Vancouver and well beyond.
Check paragliding off your bucket list
Have you always dreamt of jumping off from the mountain?
Paragliding is one of the biggest attractions at Grouse Mountain outside of the
winter months, offering flights launching from the peak and landing in
Cleveland Park for an exhilarating elevation drop of 3,300 feet. You will
receive a quick 10-minute tutorial and safety demonstration from an expert
before your 30-minute tandem glide from the summit.
Zip across the mountain at high speed
Nothing compares to the thrill of Grouse Mountain zipline
views taken in at 80km an hour speed! Grouse Mountain has a popular 5-line,
dual-line zipline circuit connecting itself with neighboring Dam Mountain that will
take you on a scenic as well as adventurous ride.
Year-Round Fun
The Eye of the Wind
Eye of the Wind, the world’s first and only wind turbine that allows you to stand in a clear glass viewPOD at the top of the tower, where you can take in 360-degree panoramic views of Vancouver from just 3 meters below the rotating blades of a turbine. Enjoy an awe-spiring panoramic view of Vancouver without getting into a helicopter or plane. (Temporarily closed)
Wildlife Refuge
Grouse Mountain is home to the Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife, where endangered animals can explore and play, knowing they’re safe and secure. Since 2001, this mountain-top habitat has been a safe home for bears, Grinder and Coola, some of the areas most talked about residents. Dedicated to becoming a world leader in preserving both flora and fauna at risk, the Refuge offers leading-edge interpretative programs that make learning about nature fun and fascinating.
Winter at the Peak
Photo courtesy of @GrouseMountain
Skiing and Snowboarding
For those looking to enjoy both sea and sky in the same trip, Grouse Mountain offers world-class skiing only minutes from the city’s downtown core. Offering 33 ski and snowboard runs at varying levels, you also have the option to take on night skiing if you are looking for a unique experience. On clear nights, the city of Vancouver sparkles below as you do laps on favorite runs.
Lessons and rentals are available on site.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is the world’s fastest-growing sport because it is something everyone can do, regardless of age. There are several snowshoeing trails on Grouse Mountain for you to escape into the serene beauty of a natural winter playground. Tour the groomed beginner and intermediate snowshoe trails of the Blue Grouse Loop, or head for Dam Mountain – a pristine loop of three main trails circling Dam Mountain and Thunder Bird Ridge.
Mountain Top Ice Skating
Imagine skating in the fresh mountain air, gliding over a smooth outdoor ice-skating rink high above the city. Grouse Mountain is home to an 8,000 sq ft ice skating pond – the only mountain top outdoor skate pond in the lower mainland. You can rent skates for all sizes at the Fireside Hut. Ideal for a family outing or a romantic date night, lace up those skates for a spin in the fresh mountain air.
Sleigh Rides
Dream of yourself taking a tour through the snow-covered alpine forests of Grouse Mountain. Either with your family or friends, or your loved ones, you will love this memorable journey through snow-covered forests, enjoying the winter landscape.
Places to Eat at Grouse Mountain
With all the things to do, you’re sure to feel a little peckish during your visit. Fuel up at one of these mountain top favorites.
Altitudes Bistro - located on the upper floor of the Peak Chalet, Canadian bistro offering regional cuisine, with mountain views & tables on a roomy patio.
Lupins Café – located on the main floor of the Peak Chalet, providing healthy snacks and indulgent meals as a self-service café.
Beavertails – located across from the Lumberjack Show, near The Rusty Rail, you’ll find Beavertail serving upfried dough pastries, individually hand stretched to resemble a beaver’s tail, finished with either sweet or savory toppings.
Rusty Rail BBQ – located just a short walk from the Grizzly Bear Habitat, offering burgers, ribs, brisket, and other traditional BBQ dishes along with cold beverages and frozen treats on the Rusty Rail patio (Summer Only).
The Observatory – Upscale West Coast dining at Grouse Mountain, the Peak of Vancouver. The Observatory Restaurant showcases the best seasonal ingredients of British Columbia (Currently closed until further notice)
