Hiking the Grouse Grind Trail in Vancouver Canada is one of the most iconic outdoor adventures in British Columbia. Often referred to as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” this steep and scenic hiking trail climbs 2.5 kilometers up the face of Grouse Mountain, which is also known as The Peak of Vancouver. Located just 15 minutes from downtown North Vancouver, this strenuous wilderness hike offers outdoor enthusiasts an opportunity to test their physical endurance while ascending more than 2,800 steps to achieve an impressive 853 m gain in elevation.

For adventure seekers visiting British Columbia, the Grouse Grind Trail is considered a rite of passage. In fact, more than 100,000 thousand visitors and West Coast locals are drawn to the trail each season. Unsurprisingly, the winning combination of a rigorous uphill climb through gorgeous forest and stunning views from the summit have made the Grouse Grind one of the most popular trails on the lower mainland.

For most visitors the climb takes 1.5 - 2 hours, although record holders have completed it in less than 40 minutes. As a result, it is a good idea to bring plenty of water, a few snacks, and to take breaks along the way. Fortunately, the Grouse Grind is a well marked trail with plenty of signage to direct you, including markers at the 1/4, halfway, and 3/4 milestones to help you track your progress during the ascent.

At the summit, Grouse Mountain offers unforgettable views of Vancouver, the Pacific Ocean, and the Cascade Mountain range, as well as a wide variety of attractions and other activities. For safety reasons it is prohibited to descend the mountain on the Grouse Grind Trail, but climbers are invited to take the scenic Red Skyline or Blue Grouse Gondolas back down to the bottom. In our experience, hiking the Grouse Grind Trail in Vancouver, Canada was not just a workout, it was also an immersive nature experience that we would highly recommend to anyone who is reasonably fit and up for a challenge.