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Grouse Grind
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54 reviews for Grouse Grind
54 reviews in English
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Review from Chauncey B.
Vancouver, BC
3/5/2012
Being in pretty good shape and always looking for new ways to prove it, Chauncey Billups booked an hour out of his day to hit up the Grind. Here's a transcript of his notes:
"11:27. I've just carboloaded at the IHOP and am ready to blast my various muscle groups. I'm carrying two big cans of Chunky New England Clam Chowder for extra weight, with the pull-tops just in case I need a burst of speed. LET'S DO THIS
11:30. Threw up the pancakes, but in retrospect I think they were slowing me down anyway. Feeling great, and keeping on pace for the record.
11:35. Can't feel my legs, which is good because a minute ago it was all excruciating pain below my waist. I think this is "the wall" we runners try to hit. I lost my sunglasses about 100 metres back. Considering them a casualty of my blistering speed. Literally blistering.
11:40. You should see the fear in these people's faces when they turn around and see me charging up at them. I'm like a stair-climbing machine, if that was a machine that climbs stairs. Is it? Doesn't matter. Irrelevant. Legs cramped up pretty good, so I took a couple muscle relaxants and washed them down with a shot of Jaeger from my "water" bottle. ROCKET FUEL.
11:45. 5 minutes to beat the record. I'm confused as to the 2.9k thing. I mean, I took my 50m time and multiplied it, I should be nearly done by now. Time to pour it on. I dropped the chowder before I could eat it, my hands aren't doing what I want them to, but I've still got plenty in the tank. I do see why they call it "the grind", though I'm surprised it's so literal.
11:46. Pretty sure I just ran out of at least one important chemical. Something changed, anyway. Where did my life go? Where am I? How long has my nose been bleeding?
11:57. So thirsty. Going to lick condensation off this rock lying to my left.
11:59. Almost there. It's crunch time though, the water's dripping and will hit the dirt soon. I've figured out a way to inch forward using just my pelvis and lower back.
12:01. Abandoned the condensation, drinking tears instead. This pelvis thing is working great. Just got to catch my breath and I'm ready for the last leg.
27:#?. Near the top, it seems. I assume we're above the clouds, there's like a tunnel of light and it's...so beautiful. All my childhood pets are here, and nothing hurts. 5 stars! -
Review from Johnny T.
Sunset, Vancouver, BC
5/22/2012
One of the lower mainlands finest summer activities. The grouse grind is called mother natures stair master for a reasons, not stop steps 2.9km of them to be exact. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. I'd suggest shorts and t-shirt for a nice sunny day. Skyride down is $10, so make sure you bring that with you to the top. Parking is readily available, but it's $3 for 2 hours. Once you get to the top, it's a phenomenal view, make sure you take a picture or two. Great work out, must try at least once.
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Review from Ellen L.
11/11/2011
Haiku review:
Come in the summer,
Free parking is hard to find,
I don't wanna pay.
Stretch, ready, set, go!
I can totally do this!
Piece of cake, no prob.
Climbing forever,
That was only one quarter?!?!?!?!
Why did I do this????????????????????????????????
Stairs stairs stairs stairs stairs
Some rocks, then more stairs stairs stairs
I freakin hate stairs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!
Yippee, I did it!
Can't wait to do it again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now I am hungry...Listed in: Places to go in Land of…, Haiku Reviews
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Review from Sam W.
9/10/2011
STAIRS.
STAIRS.
STAIRS.
MORE STAIRS.
AND MORE STAIRS. do the stairs ever end?! After about an hour and a half of stairs (for the normal unfit such as myself), the stairs will end, but at what cost? And what do you really gain?
I think the grind is really for bragging rights, cause there are way more hikes around Vancouver to engage in, and I don't really enjoy dying in front of the crowds of people who pass me. That crowd WILL include a 70 year old grandma and a 5 year old child. That said, you have to do the grind at least once in your life if you dare call yourself a proper Vancouverite!!
Oh yeah, after all the STAIRS (natural earth hewn stairs), you can take the cable car down. -
Review from Stephen R.
7/11/2011 8 photos
On a recent vacation to Vancouver, I decided that I wanted to do the Grouse Grind hike. My friend, who lives in Vancouver, had done it a few years ago, but couldn't really remember how easy(hard) the hike was. And the trail had apparently changed since then. So I kind of went into the hike only knowing that it was lots of steps. Sounds easy, right?
We hiked the trail fairly early in the morning to avoid crowds. The trail is a mix of dirt, stones, and wooden stairs. Zigzagging up the mountain through the trees. Starting off I thought, I exercise regularly, this will be easy. After just a few minutes of hiking, my opinion quickly changed. By this point, after hardly any hiking, I was struggling to keep up with my friend.
Curious about how far we had to go, we asked someone how close we were to the top. He smiled and said "you're not even half way there!" In fact we weren't even 1/4 of the way. Hearing that and being so tired was kind of demoralizing, but we just laughed and kept going. The trail has distance markers throughout, with big signs marking 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4s complete.
As the trail went on, it seemed to get steeper and steeper, but that could have just been the effects of my tired legs on my mind. Step after step after step... this was much harder than I thought it would be. Near the top (3/4), the trail became wet and slippery. There was actually still snow at the top of the mountain, so maybe that's where the water was coming from. The trail also goes near a small waterfall. There were ropes along the path near the top to help with the climb. And maybe stop you from tumbling down the mountain.
We finally reached the top, legs tired, sighs of relief, but with a feeling of accomplishment. It was definitely worth it for the view though. Although I guess if you just want the view, you can take the gondola up, but where is the fun in that? The trail is 1.8 miles long, starts at 900 feet, and reaches a height of 3700 feet. The trail's average time to complete is 1.5 hours. My friend and I did it in 1 hour and 11 minutes. Not a bad time (record time is 25 minutes!!?!!?), but I'm almost certain that we got beat by someone who couldn't have been more than 10 years old.
The trail does seem to get crowded at times, but I really didn't have a problem with that. Some areas are really narrow so passing, or being passed, can be difficult. The only problem I had with Grouse Grind was that you have to pay to go back down. Hiking the trail down is not allowed, so you must take the Grouse Mountain Skyride (gondola). A ticket for the gondola is $10 dollars. Even though the hike was not easy, I'd definitely want to do it again to try and beat my time.Listed in: Epinephrine
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Review from honky t.
Vancouver, BC
8/14/2011
The big price increase has resulted in too many people choosing to walk down rather than take the Skyride.(resulting in frequent interruptions during the climb.) 10$ is too much. The Grouse Grind does not feel worth it anymore.
I don't think I am going to downhill ski here anymore. Bad vibes all around. -
Review from Monique B.
Port Moody, BC
11/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
This hike is a killer and although you feel very 'one with nature' while climbing up through the tree canopy, you don't get a lot of opportunities to check out the scenery. The upshot is that the whole hike is shady but the downside is there are lots of mosquitoes - all the time and everywhere. I recommend bug spray and long sleeves if you attract those little pests.
When you've finished The Grind, you're entitled to the bragging rights, and after the workout, it's much deserved. Don't get depressed when some mother with a two year old strapped to her back passes you as you gasp for air and hope your legs will hold up, or when a ten year old runs past at the 3/4 mark. The beauty of this hike is getting to the top and nowing you did it! Also the view from the restaurant (a good place for a refueling snack and a bevvie) is beautiful.
A couple of tips:
1. You aren't actually allowed to hike back down the trail because it is dangerous (don't do it - you're just rude if you do) so expect to pay the $10 download fee for the gondola ride, which is a nice way to unwind.
2. Wear good shoes & socks and comfy, stretchy clothes. Also, bringing along some water doesn't hurt.
3. Encourage your fellow hikers and they will do the same for you. You'll meet people from all over the place on the grind.
4. The markers are for vertical climb, not distance travelled, so don't stress too much when it seems to take forever to get to the first 1/4 mark - it's actually further in terms of distance than the others, just not as steep. -
Review from Rich E.
8/28/2011
So, another summer is almost over and I haven't done the grind yet. I've been going to the gym moderately and frequently for the last few months and rehabilitating my knee. Checked the weather forecast and it looks like prime pickin's!!
It was a Sunday morning, so we expected busier crowds and the JERKS that HIKE DOWN the grind. Why are they jerks? Allow me to bump into you and kick rocks and dirt in your face and you'll know why. Maybe, next time, I'll "accidentally" stick out my arm when you hike down and see how you like the experience. I don't care if you're too cheap to pay the $10 to ride down or want more of a workout. Respect others and they will respect you.
This trail is a great workout and will kick your ass. There's nothing better than getting a good sweat-on when the weather is prime in Vancouver. This is THE pinnacle of summer.
When you reach the top, treat yourself to a patio, beverage and some grub on the mountain. There's tons of free attractions when you get to the top. When you get home, you'll say "What a great day!" If you're a visitor to Vancouver, you'll be telling them "Wow, this is a great city!"
Anyhow, it's a great work out. Wear decent footwear, bring some gatorade and you're good to go. -
Review from M Y.
8/19/2011
Tough hike! 2.9km/1.8mi. Lots of stairs. Lots of twists and turns.
Parking is $3 for 2 hours or $5 all day. (pay+park machines accept cash/card)
If you're looking to beat the clock, there are clocks at the bottom and top of the trail to clock your start finish time. The official record is 25:01.
At the top there are restaurants, restrooms, even entertainment. Today there were some lumberjacks entertaining the crowd. There is also a zipline if you'd like to get a little more adventure into your day. You can ride one of the lifts to get a bird's eye vew of the area as well. I don't know how much any of it costs, but basically when you get to the top, EVERYTHING costs money.
****You're not allowed to hike DOWN.****
The Skyride costs $10/person to get down. This is what I found to be the only downside to this mountain. -
Review from Sarah D.
8/19/2011
A thought time-line while doing the Grouse Grind:
"Look at all the old trees! Smell that fresh air! This is going to be AWESOME! Hey, if everyone else in this city can do it, so can I."
"Wow, check out all those stairs. I mean, that's a LOT of stairs. It's okay -this is meant to be a challenge. I can do it!"
"Man, there are a LOT of tourists on this trail. I'll show 'em what Canadians are made of! Yeah, we all do this trail here. No biggie."
"Sweet Jebus, are all these people seriously not taking rest breaks? I've got to be at least halfway by now... right? Right??"
[1/4 mark comes into view]
"Bloody f**king hell! There's NO way that was only a quarter. That HAS to be wrong."
"Keep... going... keep... going... Did that ten year-old kid seriously just run passed me? Little showoff bastard!"
"Hmm... how can I get out of this? Maybe I can pretend to receive an emergency phone call? No... that'll never work. F**K! There's only one way to go... up!"
"So... sore... I think I'm dying. Hey wait, is that the top? Sweet zombie Jesus, it is!"
"I did it. Holla! Yeah, it was no biggie. I'm cool like dat."
The Grouse Grind is an absolutely beautiful trail up the side of Grouse Mountain, and it has earned the nickname "the StairMaster" for a reason. It's KILLER, so much so that it's been featured on the TV show "The Last 10 Pounds" as a brutal workout session. Locals and tourists alike flock to the Grind in droves each year, and it's become quite the famous Vancouver landmark.
So, why only three stars? Well, for one, there are a lot of more beautiful, scenic trails that can be done on the North Shore. Also, Grouse Mountain raised the price of the sky-ride back down the mountain to $10, which is lame considering that the alternative -walking down the Grind- is dangerous due to the steepness in some areas, and the uneven footing throughout.
That being said, if you're from Vancouver, you've got to check it out at least once. If you're a fitness buff, this is a great workout; I know some people that do it daily. If you're a tourist, this is a wonderful way to see some of Vancouver's natural beauty without going too far away from the city. However be forewarned: if you're seriously out of shape, you may want to build up your cardiovascular endurance before attempting the climb; the Grouse Grind is a cruel mistress indeed!Listed in: Must dos for dull days
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Review from Erin U.
10/13/2011
something you gotta do if your a vancouverite...or a really fit traveller looking for a challenge or workout. At the end you get a sweet view and to be on top of a mountain that overlooks this fine city. What more do you need really as a reward for your hike..maybe a beer up top would help. After exercising you will get extra drunk, extra fast. go on a nice day but not too nice, and dont carry anything but water!
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Review from stephanie h.
8/20/2010
How can i give the grouse mountain 5 stars...it's freaking painful.
But it is definitely an amazingly scenic hike if you remind yourself to take a breather and look at the beautiful forest you are pushing yourself to work out in...
I have realize as i'm doing the so called "mother nature's treadmill"...I start getting really annoyed and angry at super talkative people...
First of all, nerds love the Grouse Grind. I don't know why. But there will always be someone philosophizing or politicizing while hiking, like chatting about the current bad state of the american economy or life in china or something...and its annoying to have someone chatting away about stuff like that when you're climbing up. I don't even know how they can too...it's crazy. I will purposely stand back or push myself even harder to hike away from these people.
Also there is always that super chatty skinny friend who is trying to motivate their chubbier friends to keep going. And while it is nice they care, its like...you know that its just as hard for the skinny friend to do the grind and them talking away is pretty annoying...
A few tips...do not carry a backpack! That is craziness...if you need to carry keys or water etc...get one of those nifty fanny packs that has a water bottle pocket. Also music is nice...for me personally i like doing most of the hike without music and then at the 1/2 way mark I need to put on the headphones to re motivate me. I am usually contemplating turning around until the 1/2 way mark, and then by the 1/2 way...even though i still want to turn around i feel i went that far so i should just keep going...
So yeah...if you're considering doing the Grouse Grind..go youuuu...don't turn around even though you will be telling yourself to do that for most of the way. And when you need to, sit on a rock or a safe flat perch to take a breather to look around, cause you're hiking in a rainforest...and when you reach the top beware of annoying flies, but also buy a celebratory smoothie or ice cold bottle of water... -
Review from Amelia C.
Vancouver, BC
6/12/2011
I've been doing some form of exercise every other day for several months now and decided to make the Grouse Grind my workout today.
Made it up the trail in an hour and 25 minutes! Took short breaks and even some photographs along the way, but still managed to obliterate my novice time of two hours - established back when city walking was my most strenuous form of exercise. These times are very average, according to the Grouse Mountain website.
Things I found helpful: The snow and cooler air at the top in June help make the last bit of the climb easier. Also, taking smaller steps, wearing hiking shoes, going at your own pace, drinking water, and trying not to pay attention to those 1/4 way, 3/4 way signs.
Things I would do differently: Wear lighter layers, take tissue (noticed runny noses on the first half of the hike (Not sure what that's about), and try the zip-line once I'm at the top - forgot it was up there.
Great, tough workout for the lower half of your body and your core.
Busy trail that's OK because everyone's pretty courteous. -
Review from Lea Q.
Burnaby, BC
5/24/2011
Okay I have to admit I trained hard on the treadmill (inclined to the max) before coming here! It paid off!
I ran all the way up with a few stops along the way to eat honey and drink water. My friend still beat me even though she wasn't running. I made it in 55 minutes for my first time!
Hiker beware; Never make the stupid mistake I did by running back down because your knees are going to suffer big time. Protect yourself from injury and take the trolley down.
Tips;
bring an energy booster (honey for me)
Grippy hikers shoes ( slippery when wet)
Strechy, comfortable, breathable clothes (nothing that restricts your movement)
Never run down and avoid hiking back down (harsh on the knees!!)
Money for the cafe on top
Optional;
A Camel (water backpack)
A lunch ( it may take hours to get to the top)
Personally, I will be bringing my camel since stopping to open the water bottle to drink a sip of water was cumbersome.
This is only for hikers that enjoy a steep climb or a good workout. Sometimes it may get crowded and the trail path is narrow so go early! -
Review from Melanie J.
Updated - 10/20/2011
Second time to Vancouver, second time to grind! Timing was a little bit better this time. Loved it just as much, except I knew what to expect this time. Just do it!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/12/2010
Absolutely on the "must do" list for Vancouver. Luckily, we had wonderful weather. Took pics… Read more »
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Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
7/11/2009
What the F was I thinking? Me, new Community Manager, sitting on my little rump in front of the computer all day long, chomping up a storm of backyard goodies (my backyard being Vancouver), deciding to go for my FIRST ever time up the Grind...really, what was I thinking?
Before the first quarter mark I seriously thought I was going to turn around and march my butt home. My legs were fine, but my, oh, my, my heart, my breathe, my cheeks are flushed?
Okay, so maybe I started out a little too hard, thinking, "Well, everyone else can do this, so can I." Yeah, everyone else who does this daily, weekly, monthly...ever!
But then I got a spurt of energy. For the second and third quarter I was brilliant. I held the pace for a group behind me, I took minimal breaks (errr..what's minimal anyway?), I guzzled all of my water and my cheeks and heart rate began to normalize.
And then -- boom! Ropes? Slippery slopes? More rocks right in front of my face? But I can see blue sky! I know what's coming...
Top of the mountain and there is a boisterous round of applause. "What for me?" Oh, oops, there's a lovely couple who literally just got hitched above at the Observatory.
For me, pre-beer-pit-stop, I sprawled out on the grass and watched the sky pass overhead--brilliant! -
Review from Simon K.
For my busy schedule in life, this is one of my actual workouts I try to fit twice a week in my life. For the last couple of years I actually go up about 25 - 30 times in the summer season. For any of you first timers who hear about this trek that everybody raves about, here's the usual things that I hear everytime for even people I bring up:
- At least I did it once this year!
- I'm never doing it again!
- I wanted to go back after the first 1/4!
- etc, etc, etc!!!!
OK, to get that out of the way, usually after the remarks, about two days later, and this is the people who I take up, they usual phone back and ask when is the next time your going up! This is one good work out, not much to see during the trek up the mountain, and it's a good test of will on yourself. I use this as a good cardio workout, and it is very rewarding as there is no real chickening out once you get to the 1/4 mark. Believe me, you can say your going to head back down, and that trek is even tougher! (I've done it acouple times, real harsh on the knees!)
What is real nice about this trail is that even though the elevation is steep, is that it is shaded from all the trees along the trail, so you will not get massively tanned if it is a sunny day. When it does get warm though, keep moving is the best advice I can give, cause the mosquitos come out lurking for human treats. Also, if it has just rained, be careful of your steps, as the rock faces could be a little slippery. Just take it easy on the trails, and pace yourself, don't treat this thing like a race or you will really blow yourself out.
When you get to the top, you are treated to a wonderful cafe, and restaurant with beer (if you choose to reward yourself!). You could also spend the day watching free shows, and taking the ski lift up to the next peak for one spectacular view of downtown Vancouver. The weekends tend to be fairly busy, as over the years it seems like this has become: a tourist thing, and also a social thing, which is quite fun, just that the ride down on the gondola could be a little long of a wait.
This year the price of the trip down is $10! But I was informed from the ticket booth that if you go across to the cafeteria you get a deal of $8 for a ticket down and a bottle of water! If you are going to be going often, buy the yearly pass, it is still $89.95 plus tax (I hear they are going to increase this by $10 by July 18, 2010), but you'll make this back with 10 trips up. Also the pass includes rides up the gondola (reg price for roundtrips are like $40+). -
Review from Angela S.
Coquitlam, BC
9/21/2009
Absolute hell and you will love it once you're done. The first 1/4 is the roughest because it seems like the trail goes on and on forever. Once you get past that marker it doesn't get easier but it goes a bit quicker. I would recommend paying the $5 to go down on the gondola.
A couple tips... don't wear jeans. Wear decent shoes. If it's rained expect to get a little muddy especially if you're short. (You'll need to use your hands!)
Even if you only do it once and it takes you three hours, just go. You'll be happy you did! -
Review from Alison S.
11/4/2009
I'm a bit of a wuss when it comes to exercise (read: I don't do it as often as I should) so the fact that I even managed to get up Grouse Mountain once is something of a miracle. The fact I made myself do it again just makes me a glutton...for punishment.
Truth be told, those of you that exercise more than once every 4 months a year probably will say the Grouse Grind is a pleasant but challenging hike. When you live the sedentary student life, it is nothing short of grueling (but beautiful!)
The first time it took me 3 hours. The second time it took me just under an hour and 30 min. Progress!! We got passed by some people who said they go every Monday during the summer...wow...
Be prepared for jelly-legs when you're done; take the Skytram down and enjoy the gorgeous view.Listed in: Vancouver Spots
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Review from Lauren B.
8/16/2011
This was AWESOME!! My husband and I spent a few days in Vancouver during our honeymoon, and this was one of the things we had heard that we "must do" while we were out there.
I didn't really know what to expect- and I got my a$$ handed to me! We are both in really good shape and wanted to do the grind in under an hour (after hearing that the average person does it in 90 to 120 minutes the first time). I thought I was going to die by the time we reached the first 1/4 marker, but we plunged through to the top without stopping (even though I was moving at a snail's pace in a few spots).
Managed to do it in 57 minutes- and I can't wait to go back again and beat that time!
I loved the whole experience hiking up- it was so cool to be amongst all those people all with the same goal in mind. It was the same kind of feeling I get when I run in a race.
The ride down is really awesome- it made me think "whoa, I can't believe we just climbed that high so quickly!"
If you're going to do the grind I recommend carrying as little extra weight on you as possible (no heavy packs)- but definitely bring a good amount of water! And wear PROPER SHOES for goodness sake. -
Review from Brittany W.
North Vancouver, BC
9/12/2010
The name says it all: The Grouse GRIND.
It truly is a grind, especially if it's your first time and you don't know how to pace yourself. I'd consider it a fitness challenge over a scenic hike. For most people, it feels like an accomplishment once you hit the top.
If you want to get a sense of the healthy, West Coast lifestyle that so many Vancouverites share, ya gotta do the Grind.
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How long does it take? A moderately active person who hits the gym 3-4 times/week could do it in 1:10 - 1:20. Faster, if you're fitter; longer, if you exercise less.
How to pace yourself. There's quarterly markers along the way to give you a sense of where you're at. You'd think that each quarter was equal, but they actually vary a little in length. If you were to do it in about an hour, here's an approximation of the time it may take you:
1st Q: 20 mins (from the very bottom)
2nd Q: 15 mins
3rd Q: ~18 mins
Final Q: ~11 mins
The Cost. The Grind is free if you want to hike up and down. Most people don't hike down because it's tough on the knees. The cost to take the gondola down is now $10 (used to be $5).
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TIPS (for the hike):
- Baby steps make you last longer than taking big steep steps
- Push yourself hard, take 30 sec breaks, and continue. It re-energizes you and makes you go faster
TIPS (for first-timers):
- Use the washrooms at the bottom before you start
- Bring a water bottle and fill it with the fresh mtn water at the top
- Be prepared to fight the crowds especially in the first half. Early morning is when it is least busy
- Spend some time enjoying the scenic views from Grouse before you come down
- Bring a camera/photo and take a picture of yourself and your friends at the top. It's a big accomplishment :) -
Review from Noa G.
Vancouver, BC
9/2/2008 1 photo
It's one of those things you realize is akin to self-torture while you're doing it, but makes you literally feel like you're on top of the world once it's done.
The Grouse Grind is a world-famous ascent up the side of North Vancouver's Grouse Mountain. It was first developed in 1981 as challenging, convenient aerobic workout, mainly meant to attract adventurers and mountaineers, to prepare them for longer, harder hikes.
Today, the Grind often referred to as Mother Nature's StairMaster attracts more than 100,000 climbers each year. Regulars take on the steep climb to try and beat their previous time, while tourists flock to see the incredible view of Vancouver from the top.
Personally, every time I do the Grind I find myself swearing it off for eternity, and then somehow find myself back again, heart pumping, thighs burning, and adrenaline rushing through my body. -
Review from Lydia B.
North Vancouver, BC
8/9/2011
I did the Grind a few days ago for the first time, although I've lived in North Van my whole life.
Believe what you hear, it's a hard course. Straight uphill, lots of stairs and lots of people.
Once you're at the top, though, you've got great views and access to all the shows and sights on the mountain.
You're not supposed to hike down the Grind, and apparently it's pretty hard on your knees, but there were lots of people going down while I was hiking up. I guess go at your own risk?
I was planning on hiking back down the mountain via the BCMC trail, but was pretty tired after a hike in the hot sun so paid the $10 for the gondola down. -
Review from Dani H.
Vancouver, BC
3/28/2009
"The trail is lovely, dark and steep
But you have miles to go before you sleep..."
Well, about 3 kilometres or so.
"Only" 3 K, the pedestrians amoung you might be tempted to qualify! But 3 K up a vertical switch-back is a lot different than walking your ass 3 K up and down Robson St. with a delicious candy apple in your hand!
As many have pointed out, the Grind starts easy. You might even find yourself witlessly scoffing at the fuss that's been made over it: It's just a dumb dirt trail! C'mon, people!
10 minutes in...you realize that maybe it's not going to be all pie and cake...
At the half-way point, relief is quickly tamped down. Your lungs aren't doing that breathe-y thing so good! Quads...burning! A dark curtain of reckoning descends.
You'll need a mantra to get you through, something to cling to when exertion chases all deeper thought from your brain.
"Beer at top. Beer at top. I can sit on my arse and have an ice-cold beer at the top."
Getting to the top is glorious! And, oddly, you instantly forget the pain and drudgery and make plans to come back asap! (I did the GG 7 times last year and each and every time gasped 'never again!' as sweat quickly saturated my poly/cotton blends!!)
The gondola ride down is also pretty much some death-defying fun. -
Review from Kathy S.
7/19/2010
I have never done a hike with hundreds of strangers until Grouse Grind. This isn't a hike.. it's a parade! Person after person in a row like lemmings just marching up the hill. The funny part is, it was kind of fun! I went ahead of a bunch of people and got passed just as often. It felt like a race at times, and other times a parade. At least all the human traffic makes it super safe as you're never alone in the forest.
I'm in pretty good shape and did it in a little over an hour. One of my friends who's in average shape made it up in 1.5 hours.
They have a free ski lift ride at the top that is pretty scenic.
If you buy a bottle of water for $2 at the top, the gondola ride back down is $5 vs $10 if you don't buy the water.
Don't wear a skirt on this hike (like I did.. climbing stairs in a skirt for an hour is just a bad idea) -
Review from gerald s.
9/26/2011
Like others said, it was awesome!!! my wife and I loved it!! We are from S Cal and like to hike. When we read that it is mother nature's stair climber, sounded cool. Yikes, it was intense!! Took us about 1 1/2 hours and we were drenched when done, but loved it!!
I would recommend it to anyone who wants to push themselves and love to work out. -
Review from Joe B.
9/1/2008
If you're reasonably fit and looking for as much workout in as little time and with as much outdoors as you can muster if you're in Vancouver, you can do no better than the Grouse Grind. There are even grizzly bears on top. There are signs on the drive up with the two cute bears saying "we're waiting for you!" and if that were true, right at the top of the strenuous straight-to-the-top hike, it would be a cruel joke. "you just suffered for an hour" - RAAAR! (SWIPE!)
We're on a vacation to Vancouver at the moment, and went to see the bears at Grouse Mountain. Little did we know they would be at the tippy-top. So, armed with our best vertical-hike footwear (I had sandals on, she had $8 flats from Target) we went in search of bears. We were accompanied by streams of hikers on Labor Day weekend, some slower than us, some faster, some ungodly fast. If you have ever done this hike, 26 minutes (the record) is amazing.
At the top you'll get to take the gondola ride down (and save yourself $25 compared to the round-trip gondola ride) and be rewarded with an incredible view and an even better sense of accomplishment. And maybe a fudge brownie to reward yourself with.
Oh yeah, bears. There are a couple of BIG ass grizzlies at the top, in a small enclosure with an electrified fence. That's the sad part. The happy part is they seem pretty content. I thought the enclosure was a little strange, but they're orphans who might not otherwise have made it, and they seem happy enough . . .
so, if you're in Vancouver and want to get your hike on and your wilderness on, look no further than the Grind. Highly, highly recommended. -
Review from Peter S.
7/17/2009
I am a fan of pain?
My first time up in over five years and ya, what a humbling experience!
The only redeeming quality of this grind is the cold pint at the top. I guess it was a good wake up call for me too. Apparently I am out of shape!Listed in: Get off your ass!, Vancouver Greenery
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Review from Marty S.
9/26/2011
Great hike. Challenging all the way. Virtually no reprieve from the torturous, uneven, rock and wood "steps" that lead to the summit. It was raining the whole time we hiked. Made it more challenging due to slippage. Very little sleep, food, or water in preparation for this beast so be warned! Get a good night's sleep and be mentally and physically ready to tackle it. Otherwise, extremely rewarding once finished. I also bought a souvenir t-shirt at the top because I was soaked to the bone and needed something dry and warm. Go capitalism!
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Review from Joe L.
Vancouver, BC
9/12/2009
If you haven't done it before or haven't done it for a long time, you will hate yourself or your friends who drag you or trick you do do the hike during first 1/4 section of the hike.
It is close to 45 degrees for most of the way up but the first 1/4 way up (the quarter marks are by altitude) is the steepest. I did the hike this morning with 2 friends and it was my first time in over 10 years. One of my friends who bikes to work everyday from Kerridsale to Great Northern Way began trotting up right away and it took her just less than an hour to finish the grind. Another friend and I are little out of shape and took us just under 2 hours with ample rest along the way.
Even though there were some regretful moments at the beginning, it got easier after the half way mark because my body got conditioned to the climb. I would definitely do it again because there is no way out compared to going to the gym where you can leave any time you want. Once on the grind, going down on foot is technically prohibited even though some people do it. I think it's harder to go down since the trail is steep. It forces you to complete your work out. There is no way out except up.
Another advantage of doing the Grind is you save almost $40 for an adult gondola ticket for going up the mountain. To my personal experience, I think it's a rip off. One way ticket down the mountain is only $5. Once you're up, whether you hike up or take the gondola up, you can enjoy all the summer activities up there ... the bear habitat, the logging show and the zip-lining ...
It may feel very challenging during the first 1/4 way up but as long as you stop whenever you need to and drink a lot of water, most people can do it. I see 5-year old kids zipping by me. It was rather embarrassing :) -
Review from carol w.
8/17/2009
I LOVE THE GROUSE GRIND!!! I died the first time but I'm getting faster and today, I brought my 66 year old mother who is legally blind. She did it too!!!
It's beautiful and I love the way it's covered by trees the entire way up. When you are nearing the top....it's as if heaven is opening up!
Pay $5 and ride the gondola down. I feel so lucky that I have access to this amazing mountain. People come from everywhere to do it!
So just do it! -
Review from Tim L.
8/24/2008
Probably the most convenient and best place to get a good natural workout to prep you for more hiking.
The Grouse Grind can be pretty strenuous, especially if you're not in the best of shape. What makes it so fun is that practically everyone has tried it or does it on a regular basis.
It's always fun to have a little friendly competition to see who can make it to the top in the shortest time.
It is essentially a crazy stairmaster in the wilderness. The record time right now is just over 26 minutes. To give you an idea...I'm not in the best of shape so I'm happy if I can do it in around an hour or under.
This is certainly NOT a leisurely trail you want to be bringing mom and pops on. Unless they're fit and in shape without any health problems. It's a work out. -
Review from Yi C.
Vancouver, BC
8/15/2010
Had my first hike today!
Wow, I thought I was in shape....guess not...
the steepness of the hike, and the stairs is what really will get you!
about 1.8mile hike with elevation of 2900 ft...so enjoy!!
make sure you have good hike/jogging shoes and the proper attire...you will sweat like no other! -
Review from Jenna H.
Vancouver, BC
7/24/2009
When I did Grouse Grind I thought I was in decent shape. Not the best of my life but I was playing tennis and biking almost everyday. Note to self: biking and playing tennis are about a zillion times easier than climbing up the CN Tower twice (the distance of the GG)! For the first bit I thought I was doing really well. My legs had lots of energy and I found my breathing was controlled...then my legs started to hurt a little bit and I found it hard to catch my breath. And then this intensified and intensified. And then I reached the 1/4 mark point and thought wow 3 times more of this?!
My brother and I did it together and encouraged each other to keep on trucking. If I did the Grind myself I would have likely said f#*k it and turned around feeling like an out of shape failure!
It really gets easier as you get more into it. Reaching the top is such a great feeling and the view is spectacular. Riding the gondola down is really fun too! Remember your $5 because I don't know how else you would get down.
I am planning to do it again in a couple weeks and I think it will be much easier because I know what to expect and will pace myself better and bring a larger water bottle! -
Review from Stephen Y.
Vancouver, BC
7/23/2009
Start early, hydrate frequently and bring adequate and appropriate gear (and your mobile phone)
The very beginning is kinda OK, just cramped trail - then moves on to "steps". Once up to the gondola station one has the option of going down in the gondola ($) or reverse grind down. We proceeded to go up Goat Mtn and Crown Mtn on different trips which made a pretty full day of hiking. fun. Also, some kind of nature thing/exhibit and various cool outdoorsy activities such as tandem paragliding.
Very much a social thingie now and often see tourists doing the Grind in their flip-flops.
Also, restaurant at gondola station - can always indulge a bit after a hard day of hiking.
An awesome way to enjoy Vancouver on a sunny day. -
Review from Jessica P.
9/1/2008 1 photo
My ass never spoke to me...until today. It spoke of horrors and pulled muscles and mumblings under it's breath about that last 15lbs it wish it didn't have to carry up hill.
Let me start by saying that I have a very big fondness for bears. So much so, my fondness runs into my frugality and overrides any capacity for rational thought.
On vacation in Vancouver, I had made up my mind to see bears, as conveniently as I could. Well, that really didn't work out according to plan. I had no idea what was in store for me. Instead of paying $35 to take a leisurely 8 minute gondola ride to see the Grizzly Bear habitat at Grouse Mountain, I chose the exact opposite. I chose, the Grouse Grind.
The bf and I decided on a last minute whim to climb the steep (read: intense vertical incline) hike up Grouse mountain on foot. And it's no small feat. Try it in $8 flats from Target and a pair of shorts that won't let you spread your gate more than a catholic school nun is comfortable with. Yeah, it was that bad. Better yet, try hiking that after you've walked to Kitsilano and back from downtown Vancouver via the bridge earlier in the day.
Try going up that sucker on a 1.8 mile hike unprepared, in the wrong shoes and with only bears on your mind. I think it took us about an hour...but I did it. I narrowly escaped death several times, saw amazing views, and found lung capacity I never knew I had. This hike makes you realize no matter how much in shape you are, the mountain will ALWAYS beat you. I was almost in tears at the half way point. I've run a half marathon in my time, but a woman who was trailing behind me said she believed this hike was worse than childbirth--if that puts things into perspective.
Bottom line: you'll be damn proud when you finish, the views are utterly breathtaking from the top and yes, I did see some grizzly bears. And I survived to tell the tale. Grouse Mountain, good game, my friend. Good game.Listed in: If Vancouver can, so can vu!
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Review from Megan S.
12/27/2008
This will take your breath away.
1) Because of the beauty and the wonderful nature.
2) Because walking up this steep incline is hard on the unfit!
It's a great thing to do instead of opting for the typical lazy Sunday. In fact, quite the opposite. It does take a while to reach the top, and you may be surprised to find that the weather at the top of the mountain is quite different from the weather at the bottom. Especially in October- it's possible that you may leave sun on the bottom to find snow on the top! Pretty cool.
Take a visiting tourist or dare a friend to go with you. You have to do it at least once! -
Review from Sheila W.
BC
11/28/2008
A StairMaster with no stop button, one you start the Grind, there's no quitting until you reach the top. It takes most people in the neighbourhood of an hour to do it, but that really varies depending on your level of fitness. Some people run it, while others have to stop to catch their breath every couple minutes.
You'll be rewarded when you get to the top, but you might be cursing when you hit the half way and think "OMG, I have to do what I just did again?"
The weather should be considered before you attempt the Grouse Grind. I went late in the season after work and it was already starting to get dark when we set out. By the time we were nearing the top it was hard to see and really cold - especially with a shirt damp from sweat. My lips were blue for the next couple hours. I decided I prefer my Stairmaster with a better escape plan! -
Review from jef C.
2/17/2009
An ultra aggressive hike.
The ultimate outdoor workout.
Grindaway!!!!!! -
Review from M L.
6/3/2011
Believe all the hype! This is a tough hike or run if you're missing pain receptors in your body. Almost 3000 feet elevation gain over 2 miles is crazy! This is the steepest hike I have done in such a short distance. This is seemly an endless stair master that will leave you cursing the gods as you slowly make your ascension. I had a huge sigh of relief when I finally made it to the top.
You can participate in the Grind Timer Program where you get a timing chip to swipe at the base of the mountain and the top. This submits your time to their database and you will be in Grouse Grind history. Your score will be displayed in the lodge up top. You can see the fastest times for each gender and age group. You can also see where you match up to average times of your age group too.
At the top you have access to food, gift shop and even can get tickets to some show. If you wander outside the lodge you can even go see some grizzly bears. I was lucky the day I was there because there were 3 of them very close to the fence just playing and digging up the dirt.
It costs you $10 to take the tram down and that is the only option. They forbid you to hike back down but I'm sure people have done it. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys the outdoors and likes to punish their body!
