Grouse Mountain Vancouver
A majestic mountain overlooking Vancouver, offering hiking, skiing, wildlife, and stunning city vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Grouse Mountain Vancouver
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic mountain overlooking Vancouver, offering hiking, skiing, wildlife, and stunning city vistas.
"The views are just breathtaking—it’s honestly hard to believe how beautiful it is up there."
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy running shoes or hiking boots are essential for the Grouse Grind.
💧 Hydrate Adequately
Bring plenty of water, especially for the Grind. Insulated bottles keep water cold.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grouse Grind
Base of the mountain
A strenuous 2.9km hike with 2,800 stairs. Nature's stairmaster for a serious workout and bragging rights.
Skyride Gondola
Base to summit
Soar above the trees for panoramic views of Vancouver and surrounding mountains. A scenic and accessible way up.
Peak of Vancouver Views
Summit
Unobstructed, sweeping vistas of the city, ocean, and surrounding peaks. Absolutely stunning on a clear day.
Wildlife Encounters
Summit area
See resident grizzly bears, owls, and other local wildlife in their naturalistic habitats.
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Grind or Ride the Skyride?
Timing is Everything for Views & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy running shoes or hiking boots are essential for the Grouse Grind. +1
💧 Hydrate Adequately
Bring plenty of water, especially for the Grind. Insulated bottles keep water cold.
⬆️ Pace Yourself on the Grind
It's a mental and physical challenge. Find your own rhythm and don't push too hard too soon.
⬆️ Descend via Skyride or BCMC
You cannot descend the Grouse Grind. Use the Skyride or the nearby BCMC trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy running shoes or hiking boots are essential for the Grouse Grind. +1
💧 Hydrate Adequately
Bring plenty of water, especially for the Grind. Insulated bottles keep water cold.
⬆️ Pace Yourself on the Grind
It's a mental and physical challenge. Find your own rhythm and don't push too hard too soon.
⬆️ Descend via Skyride or BCMC
You cannot descend the Grouse Grind. Use the Skyride or the nearby BCMC trail.
📱 Cell Service is Spotty
Expect decent cell coverage, but it can be unreliable in some areas.
🎟️ Gondola Down is Paid
If you hike up, you'll need to purchase a ticket for the Skyride to descend.
🧥 Dress in Layers
The temperature can change significantly from the base to the summit.
🐻 Meet the Bears
Visit the grizzly bear habitat at the top for an up-close encounter.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking views from Grouse Mountain, calling it a must-visit for anyone in Vancouver. The wildlife encounters and engaging shows are also highlights, making for a memorable experience. While the Grouse Grind is a challenging but rewarding hike, the Skyride offers an accessible way to enjoy the summit's attractions.
"Wow, wow, wow—words can’t even describe how incredible the views are! If it’s your first time in Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is an absolute must. Definitely get the day pass—you’ll have access to all the shows and free activities. The grizzly bears and owls were super cool to see, and we even spotted a wild elk on our way down the ski lift!
On a clear day, the views are just breathtaking—it’s honestly hard to believe how beautiful it is up there. Also, there’s a free shuttle bus that runs between Canada Place and Grouse Mountain, which makes getting there so easy.
Highly recommend—don’t miss it!"
AJ Cruz
"This was incredible!! The views were stunning and the shows on top of the mountain were spectacular! We saw live grizzly bears up close plus plenty of deer. They put on an amazing bird show with an owl, an eagle plus more all with a gorgeous background of the canyon. Many food options there as well. Very much worth the visit! Highly recommend!"
Tracey Williams
"Last week in August 2025. Gorgeous day with blue skies. I didn't think it could get better but then I took the chair lift to the summit. I was alone and it was totally quiet as I skimmed the tree tops and saw creation through fresh eyes. It was just God and me. Everyone should have this experience once in their life. I will never forget this day and I wish the same for you. Don't miss Grouse Mountain."
Gerard M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a free shuttle bus from Canada Place downtown, which is very convenient. Alternatively, take public transit: Seabus from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay, then bus #236. Driving is also an option with paid parking at the base. +1
Yes, there is paid parking available at the base of Grouse Mountain, near the Skyride and the start of the Grouse Grind.
Yes, public transit is a good option. Bus #236 from Lonsdale Quay or #232 from Phibbs Exchange go directly to the base. There's also a free shuttle from downtown. +1
Absolutely! Public transit, including buses and the Seabus connection, makes it easy to reach Grouse Mountain without a car.
The free shuttle bus typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Public transit might take a bit longer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking the Grouse Grind itself is free! However, you will need to purchase a ticket for the Skyride gondola to descend the mountain.
Admission typically includes access to the Skyride, various shows (like the lumberjack show and bird show), the grizzly bear habitat, and other activities on the mountain.
The cost for the Skyride varies, but a round-trip ticket is generally required if you don't hike up. Check their official website for current pricing.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the base of the mountain, but booking online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season, to save time.
Grouse Mountain sometimes offers discounts, especially during specific events or for local residents. Keep an eye on their website and social media for promotions.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The Grouse Grind is a very steep, 2.9km trail with over 2,800 stairs. It's a challenging workout that takes most people 1-2 hours to complete.
The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Vancouver, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding Coast Mountains. It's especially stunning on a clear day.
Activities include visiting the grizzly bear habitat, watching the lumberjack and bird shows, exploring the Peak Chalet, and enjoying the scenic views. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular.
The Grouse Grind is very challenging and not recommended for absolute beginners. It requires a good level of fitness. Consider the Skyride if you're not prepared for a strenuous hike.
Yes, Grouse Mountain has a ski area with lifts and runs. A lift ticket is required, which includes access to the Skyride.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic shots of Vancouver. Look for viewpoints along the Skyride path and near the Peak Chalet. The BCMC trail also provides unique perspectives.
Yes, fog can create a mystical and dramatic atmosphere, offering unique photographic opportunities, especially with the sun cutting through the mist.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Clear midday offers the best visibility for expansive views.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and protected areas. It's best to check Grouse Mountain's specific regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing a day pass which often includes access to these shows and activities. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for varying weather conditions. The mountain offers a great opportunity for kids to experience nature and learn about local wildlife in an accessible way.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts & Hikers
If you're looking for a less intense hike, the BCMC trail offers an alternative route up the mountain. Remember that descending the Grind is not permitted; you'll need to use the Skyride or BCMC trail.
📸 Photographers & View Seekers
Aim for golden hour for the most dramatic lighting. Even on foggy days, the unique atmosphere can lead to stunning, moody shots. Don't forget to capture the wildlife, the Skyride in motion, and the impressive architecture of the Peak Chalet. The journey up via the Skyride itself provides excellent vantage points for photos of the surrounding forests and mountains.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grouse Grind: A Vancouver Rite of Passage
Preparation is key for tackling the Grind. Wear appropriate athletic clothing and sturdy running shoes or hiking boots. Bring plenty of water, as staying hydrated is crucial. While some opt for a backpack with snacks, many prefer to travel light to maintain momentum. Early morning visits are highly recommended to avoid the heat and the busiest crowds.
Upon reaching the summit, the reward is not only a sense of accomplishment but also access to all the attractions at the top of Grouse Mountain. Remember, you cannot descend the Grind; you'll need to take the Skyride gondola down, for which a separate ticket is required.
Experiencing the Summit: Beyond the Grind
Grouse Mountain is also home to a wildlife refuge, where you can see resident grizzly bears (Grinder and Coola) in their naturalistic habitat, as well as owls and other birds of prey. The Lumberjack Show and Birds in Motion demonstration are popular attractions that entertain visitors of all ages.
For those seeking more adventure, consider exploring nearby trails like Dam Mountain or Thunderbird Ridge if time permits. In winter, Grouse Mountain transforms into a ski resort, offering opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying festive light displays.
Getting to Grouse Mountain: Options for Every Traveler
Public transit is also a viable and budget-friendly option. You can take the Seabus from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver, and then catch bus #236 directly to the base of Grouse Mountain. This route allows you to experience more of the city and its surroundings.
If you prefer to drive, there is paid parking available at the base of the mountain. From the base, you can either hike the Grouse Grind or take the Skyride gondola up to the summit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit