Vancouver Savvy • North Vancouver

Grouse Grind: Climb Grouse Mountain

The Grouse Grind is a popular giant Stairmaster for locals and travellers. It is known as Vancouver’s peak, because it is located in North Vancouver, which is very close to the city center and offers a beautiful view of the city. The first time I went up the mountain was with a two of my best friends who were visiting and we took the lift up. There are also small animal shows at the top of the mountain that are very entertaining. The Grind is open during the summer months from about May to October.

grouse grind trail sign grouse grind beginning of trail grouse grind middle of trail grouse grind quarter mark sign

A few weeks ago, my partner and I decided to climb up the mountain because we were planning to do the hike all summer. It is a moderate hike of stairs with some rocky and steep areas. It takes about 1 ½ to 2 hours to reach the top if you take small breaks to catch your breath. We saw a wide range of people from children to older adults doing the trail. If you are travelling on a budget, this is recommended because it is FREE to go up the mountain and only $5 to ride the lift down – compared to about $40 for one adult admission. It is not recommended you head down the mountain by foot. The view at the top is well worth the the trek up the mountain.

grouse mountain at the top

Location: 6400 Nancy Greene Way North Vancouver, BC (map)

Getting There: From Vancouver, take the Lions Gate Bridge towards North Vancouver where you will see signs to Grouse Mountain There is lots of free parking at the base of the mountain, but the paved lots are pay parking. The trail is beside parking lot D.

Price: FREE to go up, $5 to ride the lift down.

SkyTrain Stop: Waterfront Station, take the SeaBus Northbound to North Vancouver, Bus #236 goes directly to Grouse Mountain.

More Info? Grouse Mountain, Grouse Grind

Summerfest @ Lonsdale Quay Market, North Vancouver

lonsdale quay market sign

There are many markets throughout the city, which is one thing I love about Vancouver. This was our first visit to the Lonsdale Quay Market in North Vancouver. One method of travelling to the North Shore is by SeaBus. I have never taken the Seabus, but it is a frequent passenger boat which travels between downtown Vancouver and North Vancouver.

Summerfest is the current event at the market until September 6, 2009. Every weekend different kinds of dance lessons are offered free to the public. The market has a few restaurants, many small food stands, and local craft and clothing shops. The atmosphere is very laid back if you just want to spend a few hours by the water enjoying the music or grabbing a bite from the market shops.

If you are a seafood lover, specifically oysters, you must try Screaming Mimi’s Seafood Deli and Steamer. This was the first food stand I saw when we walked in; it offers creamy baked oysters, jalapeno oyster on a bun, fried oysters, and raw oysters. You can even pick your own live lobster or crab and have them steam it for you.

Event: Summerfest (June 26 – September 6, 2009)

Location: The foot of Lonsdale Avenue (map)

SkyTrain Stop: Waterfront Station, SeaBus

Getting There: If you are driving, you take the Lions Gate Bridge to North Vancouver. Free market parking is available on the weekends and after 6pm on weekdays.

Price: FREE

More Info? http://www.lonsdalequay.com

Grouse Grind: Climb Grouse Mountain

Summerfest @ Lonsdale Quay Market, North Vancouver

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