GROUSE MOUNTAIN

THINGS TO DO IN VANCOUVER-
GROUSE MOUNTAIN
Grouse Mountain was named after a bird called a blue grouse by hikers in 1894 and is open for 365 days a year. Grouse Mountain Vancouver is just fifteen minutes from downtown and once you arrive at the base of the mountain there is a Swiss built cable car to take you up the mountain, which run every fifteen minutes. This is North American's largest cable car carrying one hundred people at a time and will take you to the peak of the mountain. The Sky ride is a mile long and only takes about eight minutes and you get to see some great views of the city of Vancouver and the Pacific Ocean on your ascent.

You can also make your way up the mountain by hiking, however bear in mind it is a steep climb, it will take approximately two hours if you are fit. You do miss out on the views on the ascent as you are surrounded by Douglas Firs but if you fancy the challenge it is very satisfying when you reach the summit. The most breathtaking views are definitely saved for once you are at the peak of Grouse Mountain where you can see as far as San Juan in Washington State.

Grouse Mountain is a popular destination all year round. In the summer you can take some beautiful walks with great views, some of which are guided if you wish. You can also go on a bike tour from the summit, see the world famous lumberjack show and the birds in motion demonstration. You can visit the refuge for endangered wildlife or take a helicopter tour flying high above the peaks of Vancouver's North Shore Mountains. In winter Grouse Mountain offers even more, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, Vancouver's only mountain top ice skating and even sleigh rides.

There are twenty five great runs to choose from and skiing and snowboarding lessons are available for all abilities. Whether you are an novice or expert there is something for everyone. Thirteen of the ski slopes are also open at night, the brightly lit slopes have become North Vancouver landmark on winter evenings.

For more information on Grouse Mountain and for upcoming events and upto date snow reports, please visit the Grouse Mountain site here.