The Complete Guide to Grouse Mountain Vancouver
What is Grouse Mountain?
A four-season adventure playground that locals and visitors love, Grouse Mountain offers a healthy dose of outdoor fun close to the city. Some people call it "The Peak of Vancouver,” and once you’re up there, you’ll see why. Towering 1231 meters (4100ft) above sea level on the North Shore, Grouse can be reached by the Skyride gondola, a breathtaking ride with sweeping views of the city, ocean, and surrounding coastal mountains. Or, for the more ambitious and active, by the Grouse Grind, a 2.9-kilometer hike that climbs over 800 meters. Whether you’re looking for fresh powder in the winter, a wildflower-dotted alpine hike in the summer, or unique wildlife encounters year-round, find it at Grouse. The best part? It’s less than 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver!
What is There to Do at Grouse Mountain?
Summer & Fall: Hiking, biking, and so much more
The Grouse Grind
Nicknamed “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” and for good reason. This 2.9-kilometer uphill hike is a Vancouver rite of passage. 2,830 steps and over 800 meters of elevation can be quite the challenge, but the views from the top are worth every drop of sweat. PS. The way up is free, but you’ll have to purchase a ticket to download via gondola.
Mountain Biking
Grouse Mountain’s world-class bike park features 20+ trails, from flowy beginner routes like “Tim’s Trim” to world-class technical routes like “Paper Cut”. Rent a bike on-site or bring your own. Getting multiple laps in won’t be a problem with access to the only mountain bike-friendly chairlift in Vancouver.
Grizzly Bear Habitat
Say hi to Grinder and Coola, two rescued grizzly bears who call Grouse Mountain home. Their 5-acre sanctuary mimics their natural habitat, and daily ranger talks offer fascinating insights into their lives. Get more information on everyone else you can see in the Wildlife Refuge here!
Birds in Motion
Come face-to-face with eagles, owls, and falcons. Don’t miss the flying demonstrations that happen three times a day, where these majestic birds soar just overhead.
The Coaster
New in 2025, see Grouse from a completely different perspective with this 1,434-meter alpine coaster that descends almost a thousand meters! Control your own speed and go as fast as 45km/h as you twist through forests and down the mountainside. Get your tickets here.
Winter & Spring: Explore a snowy wonderland
Skiing & Snowboarding
With 26 runs from bunny hills to technical glades, Grouse Mountain is Vancouver’s friendliest ski and snowboard destination. Take lessons on The Cut, Grouse’s Snow School area, or weave through the trees on Peak Glades and test your 360 in the Terrain Park. When the sun sets, the mountain lights up for night skiing that over looks the city. Be sure to get tickets and check the current season hours before you go.
Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking
For an adventure away from the crowds, strap on snowshoes (available for rent) and explore the Snowshoe Grind, a 4.3-kilometer loop that winds through snow-covered forests. For those wanting something extra special, come for the Light Walk and stroll through glowing light tunnels hanging off massive towering pines.
Tubing
No skills or coordination required, just a good time for everyone! The Sliding Zone offers multiple lanes where you can race friends and family down the slopes on inflatable tubes. It’s a must-do for families and anyone looking for an easy way to enjoy the snow.
How Do You Get to Grouse Mountain?
By Car
A scenic 25-minute drive from downtown via Capilano Road. Parking is available, but arrive early on weekends; spaces fill up fast!
By Transit
Take the iconic SeaBus from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay, then hop on Bus #236 directly to Grouse Mountain. Pro Tip: The SeaBus ride alone is worth a trip. You’ll get stunning harbour views of the Vancouver skyline for less than a cup of coffee.
By Free Shuttle
In summer, catch the free shuttle. With departures every 20 minutes from 9 am to 6:15 pm from Canada Place and 9:35 am to 6:50 pm from Grouse, you can stay for a few hours or make it a whole day outing.
What Can You Eat & Drink at Grouse Mountain?
On and Near the Mountain
Vancouver’s highest-elevation fine dining experience. Feast on BC halibut with foraged mushrooms or slow-braised short ribs while gazing at the sunset over the Pacific. Reservations are highly recommended, especially if you want a window seat. Located at the Peak Chalet
Après meets summer patio vibes at Altitudes. Enjoy BC-inspired dishes like the famous Signature Nachos or steelhead salmon bowls while soaking in panoramic city views from 3,700 feet up. Winter brings cozy fireside dining; summer offers Vancouver’s best alpine patio. Located at the Peak Chalet
BeaverTails ($)
A Canadian classic. Crispy fried dough topped with Nutella, cinnamon sugar, or maple butter. The perfect reward after a day on the slopes or trails.
Near Grizzly Bear Habitat and Lumberjack Show
An authentic outdoor barbecue experience surrounded by mountain peaks. Savour smoked brisket sandwiches, grilled corn, and local craft beers at this seasonal gem. Located steps from the Grizzly Bear Habitat and Lumberjack Show, making it perfect for refueling after summer adventures.
Near Grizzly Bear Habitat and Lumberjack Show
Downtown (Near Free Summer Shuttle)
A MICHELIN Plate-winning jewel in the Fairmont Pacific Rim. Treat yourself to dry-aged duck breast and local spot prawn crudo paired with ocean views. The 6-course tasting menu is a culinary journey through BC.
1038 Canada Pl, Vancouver
Casual fine-dining taken up a notch, this MICHELIN guide-recommended restaurant serves up fresh local seafood, oysters, and more in a beautiful Art Deco-style dining room
200 Burrard St, Vancouver
Lower Lonsdale (If Taking Transit Via Seabus)
A cozy Italian gem near Lonsdale Quay, serving house-made gnocchi, wood-fired pizzas, and an impressive wine list.
150 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver
With something for everyone and easy access from downtown, Grouse is the perfect place to spend a few hours or the whole day exploring. If you’re visiting Vancouver, leave room on your itinerary for Grouse Mountain. You won’t regret it.
Into
scenic
spots?
Get
ideas.