Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver

The brightly coloured Grouse Mountain Gondola is one of two transportation methods to ascend (or descend) this Vancouver attraction. Scaling the cliff and tree covered landscape it takes visitors to the peak of the mountain to the various activities and sights that popularize the mountain such as skiing and snowboarding or to see the giant cravings or logging shows that are enacted at various times of the day. CREDIT: Venture Vancouver, SOURCE: www.venturevancouver.com

The Grouse Mountain Gondola taking visitors to the peak of the mountain down. Even on foggy days the view is spectacular.

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 which are accessible to the general 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 for people in the 1920s and 30s with increased interest in a lodge built by Scandinavian immigrants who, undaunted by the climb and rugged conditions scaled the mountain and to build it at the peak of Grouse. This lodge, a popular tourist attraction burned down in 1964. New buildings have since replaced the old and with the addition of the Blue Tram in 1966 to increase the tourist potential of the area, Grouse Mountain became a popular summer and winter destination. The Red Tram/Super Skyride which is the main form of transit up and down the mountain was built in 1976.

With its large open and inviting visitors centre that shows a variety of movies about the wilderness on the mountain, amazing carved artwork along the many paths throughout the peak, a Chalet and some of the most breathtaking panoramic view of Vancouver below, it is a must-visit attraction for many tourists. With activities both at the base of the mountain and at its peak catering to a wide range of age groups and fitness ability, it is a very family friendly activity.

Be sure for those ascending and descending in the gondola to find a spot with a view as many interesting sights can be seen on the ride such as the city's reservoir where scenes from the X-Men movie were filmed 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 two main Gondolas. They are most restless and visible at noon when their daily feeding is scheduled. Two of the three wolves are white in colour whereas the last wolf is a moulted grey colour. The western sloped walkway is the best viewpoint as the braver of the animals will usually pace in this area, offering an unparalleled view of these usually shy creatures.

Overcast or sunny and clear days are optimal to take advantage of the height and 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. Consult a local weather forecast for the best dates to ascend the Mountain.