BCMC Trail
A challenging 2.9km hike to Grouse Mountain's peak, offering a rigorous workout and rewarding panoramic views of Vancouver.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
BCMC Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging 2.9km hike to Grouse Mountain's peak, offering a rigorous workout and rewarding panoramic views of Vancouver.
"Embrace the thrill of a new adventure to the Peak of Vancouver. Tackle the challenging 2.9km BCMC Trail!"
💪 Fitness First
This trail is challenging! Ensure you have good fitness. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Pack Layers
It's cooler at the top. Bring a warm jacket and hat. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Grouse Mountain Peak
Reach the top of Grouse Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of Vancouver and the surrounding landscape.
+1The Challenging Ascent
BCMC Trail
Experience the thrill of a steep, rewarding climb that tests your endurance and fitness.
+1Post-Hike Refreshment
Grouse Mountain Base
Enjoy a well-deserved beer or meal at the base after conquering the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
BCMC Trail: A Challenging Ascent
+1Prepare for the Summit
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💪 Fitness First
This trail is challenging! Ensure you have good fitness.
🧥 Pack Layers
It's cooler at the top. Bring a warm jacket and hat.
⏱️ Use the Timer Card
Swipe your BCMC Timer Card at start and finish for bragging rights!
🥾 Traction Devices
Consider traction devices for slippery sections, especially in certain seasons.
Tips
from all over the internet
💪 Fitness First
This trail is challenging! Ensure you have good fitness.
🧥 Pack Layers
It's cooler at the top. Bring a warm jacket and hat.
⏱️ Use the Timer Card
Swipe your BCMC Timer Card at start and finish for bragging rights!
🥾 Traction Devices
Consider traction devices for slippery sections, especially in certain seasons.
🐻 Bear Safety
While sightings are rare, be aware of your surroundings. Bear spray is generally not needed. :bear:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The BCMC Trail is praised for its challenging and rewarding nature, offering a great workout and stunning summit views. While some find it less steep than the Grouse Grind, it's still a demanding hike. Hikers appreciate the sense of accomplishment and the beautiful scenery, though some mention the need for proper gear and preparation for summit weather.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The BCMC Trailhead is located at the base of Grouse Mountain in North Vancouver. You can reach it by car, with parking available, or via public transit. Many visitors opt for the Grouse Mountain Skyride to descend after their hike.
Yes, there is parking available at the base of Grouse Mountain, near the BCMC Trailhead. It can get busy, especially on weekends.
Yes, you can take public transit to Grouse Mountain. Check TransLink schedules for bus routes that service the area.
The BCMC Trail is generally accessible year-round, but conditions can vary significantly with weather. Snow and ice can make it challenging in winter months.
Both trails lead to the top of Grouse Mountain and are considered challenging. The BCMC Trail is slightly longer but generally less steep than the Grouse Grind, offering a different kind of workout.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking the BCMC Trail itself is free. However, if you plan to use the Grouse Mountain Skyride for your descent or ascent, a ticket is required.
The BCMC Trail is open 24/7 as it's a public trail. However, amenities at Grouse Mountain and the Skyride have specific operating hours.
Parking at Grouse Mountain typically has a fee. It's advisable to check the official Grouse Mountain website for current rates.
Yes, you can hike down the BCMC Trail, but it's often recommended to use the Grouse Mountain Skyride for descent due to the steepness and potential for slippery conditions.
Discounts for the Skyride may be available, especially for locals or during specific promotions. It's best to check the Grouse Mountain website for any current offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The average time to hike the BCMC Trail is between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your fitness level and pace.
The BCMC Trail has an elevation gain of approximately 750 meters (2,460 feet) over its 2.9 km length.
Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking athletic clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring layers for the summit, as temperatures can drop significantly.
Restrooms are typically available at the trailhead and at the top of Grouse Mountain. There are no facilities along the trail itself.
The BCMC Trail is considered a hard-rated trail and is not recommended for absolute beginners. It's best to have some hiking experience or start with easier trails.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Grouse Mountain offers dining options, including cafes and restaurants, where you can refuel after your hike.
You are welcome to bring your own snacks and water for the hike. There are no food services directly on the trail itself.
Alcohol consumption is generally not permitted on public trails. You can enjoy a drink at the designated dining areas at the top.
Dining options range from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, offering various cuisines.
There are no water fountains on the BCMC Trail. It's essential to carry enough water for your entire hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for clearings along the trail that offer glimpses of the city and surrounding mountains. The summit provides the most expansive photo opportunities.
Yes, hiking up in the late afternoon can reward you with stunning sunset views over Vancouver.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the city.
Drone usage is typically restricted at Grouse Mountain and on its trails. Always check the latest regulations before flying.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1For families with older, fit teenagers who enjoy challenging hikes, the BCMC Trail can be an option, but ensure they are well-prepared with adequate water, snacks, and appropriate gear. The descent via the Skyride is a much more accessible option for families to enjoy the mountain's offerings without the strenuous climb.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
+1To save money, consider hiking up and down the BCMC Trail (though hiking down can be tough on the knees). Alternatively, pack your own food and water to avoid purchasing expensive items at the mountain's cafes and restaurants.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
+1For an added challenge, consider timing your ascent using the BCMC Timer Card available at the trailhead. The goal is to push your limits and improve your personal best. Remember to cool down properly and consider a post-hike recovery meal or drink.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The BCMC Trail vs. The Grouse Grind
+1The BCMC Trail, on the other hand, is slightly longer at 2.9 km compared to the Grind's 2.5 km, but it's generally less steep. This means the ascent is more gradual, with varied terrain that can feel more like a traditional hike. Some hikers find the BCMC Trail offers a more scenic and less monotonous experience, while others prefer the focused intensity of the Grind.
+1Both trails are rated as 'Hard' and require a good level of fitness. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference for the type of challenge and terrain. Many visitors opt to hike up one and take the Grouse Mountain Skyride down.
+2Preparing for the Summit: Weather and Gear
+1Beyond clothing, sturdy hiking footwear with good grip is essential. The trail can be uneven, and in certain conditions, slippery. Consider bringing water and snacks, as there are no services along the BCMC Trail itself. A small backpack is ideal for carrying these essentials. For those concerned about visibility or grip, traction devices can be helpful during wetter or icier periods.
+1Finally, while bear sightings on the BCMC Trail are rare, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and make noise as you hike. Carrying bear spray is generally not considered necessary by most hikers on this popular route, but it's a personal safety decision.
The Metaphorical Journey of the BCMC Trail
The trail's varied terrain can represent the different phases and unexpected turns we encounter. The realization that a familiar path might feel more challenging after time away can be a powerful lesson in perseverance and adaptation. It encourages a mindset of continuous effort and the understanding that growth often comes from pushing beyond perceived limits.
Ultimately, the BCMC Trail offers a space for reflection and personal achievement. The satisfaction of reaching the summit, coupled with the stunning views, serves as a tangible reward for the effort invested, reinforcing the idea that dedication and resilience lead to rewarding outcomes.
+1
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