When we first arrived in Vancouver and checked into our hotel, I was immediately struck by the sight of a massive mountain in the distance as I stepped out onto the balcony. My curiosity was piqued, but hunger took precedence, so we went out to explore the city and grab some food. By the time we returned to the hotel, it was nighttime, and the mountain was beautifully illuminated, making it even more stunning. I just had to find out what it was, so I asked at the reception—turns out, it was Grouse Mountain!
Grouse Mountain stands over 1,200 meters (or 2,000 feet) tall and is breathtaking both at its base and summit! It’s not just a ski resort; it’s also a spot for bear watching, a theater, a zip-lining adventure, and more. There’s really something for everyone there! Interestingly, its first lodge was hand-built by Scandinavians in the 1920s.
Even though it was warm and sunny in Vancouver, there was snow on the mountain—a big clue to its impressive height long before I learned the exact measurement. I’m okay with heights, but my friend Yaya is a bit wary and felt a little nervous during the cable car ride up.
To get to Grouse Mountain, you can take a taxi from Vancouver or drive if you have a car, which is a good option if you’re splitting the cost with others. Alternatively, tour buses are available. The taxi fare ranges from $25 to $30 CAD.
Here are some tips if you plan to visit:
1. If you enjoy skiing, Grouse Mountain is a fantastic place to do it.
2. Pack warm clothes, as it’s cold up there despite the weather in Downtown.
3. Don’t miss out on the snowmobile sleigh ride—it’s a blast!
4. If you’re afraid of heights like Yaya, it might help to close your eyes during the first part of the cable car ride. But trust me, the views of Vancouver are worth it, even Yaya kept his eyes open the whole way!