Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver

There are two ways to ascend up Grouse Mountain, via the Grouse Grind or by the Gondola. However, in the winter months, the trail is closed so the only way to get up to the ski slopes is by Gondola. The ski and snowboard hills are open from November to April and the Mountain is popular winter destination. CREDIT: Venture Vancouver, SOURCE: www.venturevancouver.com

In the winter months Grouse Mountain sees hundreds of skiers and snowboarders come up the mountain by Gondola to enjoy the slopes.

STATS

HOURS

RATES

Type:

Activity

Season:

All Seasons

Weather:

All Weather

Time:

4 hours

Cost:

What to bring:

Camera, Binoculars, Warm Clothes, Hiking Boots

Grouse Mountain is an all year round, all season and all weather outdoor attraction. From the world famous Grouse Grind hike taking seasoned (and beginner) hikers from the foot of the mountain to its peak to the panoramic views of the cities below and the surrounding mountains, it is no surprise that the mountain is as popular as it is. In the winter months a new crowd ascends the mountain on the giant gondolas, people of all ages ski, snowboard, snowshoe, ice skate and enjoy the view at the top of this winter resort looking over one of Canada's most beautiful cities.

One of the North Shore's most popular attractions, Grouse Mountain is a treat for any season. Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, nature walks, bears, birds of prey, movies, a logging show and Vancouver's famous Grouse Grind (and the quieter BCMC trail which is at the back of the mountain for hikers trying to beat the crowds on the Grind) are a few of the many attractions at the top of Vancouver's highest peak.

Grouse is one of three mountains along the North Shore (West and North Vancouver) which are accessible to the public. Grouse has the distinction of being one of the only one without a accessible road network, using only two large gondolas to ferry tourists from the base of the mountain to its peak.

The mountain was a popular destination during the 1920s and 30s when a lodge was built at the peak of Grouse Mountain by Scandinavian immigrants who were undaunted by the climb and rugged conditions. A popular tourist attraction, the lodge burned down in 1964. In 1966 the Blue Tram was constructed to ferry people to the top of the mountain which made Grouse a popular year-round destination. The Red Tram / Super Skyride was added in 1976 - consisting of two cars which counterbalance each other - and is now the main way to get up and down the mountain.

With its large open and inviting lodge which shows a variety of movies about the mountain, amazing carved artwork along the pathways atop the peak, two grizzly bears which live in an enclosed pen, logging and birds of prey shows, a Chalet and some of the most breathtaking panoramic view of the Lower Mainland below, Grouse Mountain is a must-visit attraction for visitors to the region. With activities both at the base of the mountain and at its peak catering to a wide range of age groups and fitness abilities, Grouse Mountain is an ideal destination.

For those ascending and descending in the gondola, be sure to find a spot with a window view as many interesting sights can be seen on the ride up such as the city's reservoir as well as famous Stanley Park, and the Lion's Gate Bridge.

At the base of Grouse Mountain tourists can see three wolves which were born into captivity and were hand raised and subsequently been retired from the movie business after many years of work in various feature films. Arriving in June of 2004, these wolves live in a large enclosed pen on the top of a hill beside the main parking lot at the base of the Mountain. They are easily viewed at noon when their daily feeding is scheduled. Two of the three wolves are white while the other is grey. The sloped walkway is the best viewpoint as the wolves usually pace in this area, offering an unparalleled view of these usually shy creatures.

Overcast or sunny and clear days are optimal to enjoy the views from Grouse Mountain. Cloudy days can obscure visibility, but many shows and activities are not affected by adverse weather conditions. Wild bears (and cougars) are also visitors to the mountain - be sure to adhere to warnings given by Grouse employees.