10:00 a.m.
Travel to the Grouse Grind. From Vancouver, take the SeaBus to North Vancouver. You will arrive at Lonsdale Quay and the bus loop. Hop onto Bus #236 to the foot of Grouse Mountain.
11:00 a.m.
You will arrive at the lower Grouse Mountain parking lot. Follow the signs to "The Grind". It's to the east of the Gondola. You will find the entrance behind a chain-link fence.
The Grind is a trail that ascends Grouse Mountain , which is sometimes referred to as "Mother Nature's Stairmaster." While it doesn't sound like a long hike, 2.9km, it's steep! It rises over 850 meters (2,800 feet). It used to be the only way up to the top of the mountain to ski, before the gondola was built. Now it's a great cardio workout. The average time it takes to ascend the natural staircase is 1 hour and 30 minutes, so be prepared with water.
12:30 p.m.
When you get to the top, relax. Head into the building and grab a drink and a bite to eat. Enjoy the view, as you let your heart rate return to normal.
There are several places to rest your weary legs once you've reached the mountaintop. One is Altitudes Bistro. It offers a great view of what you just accomplished and the city beneath, as well as a range of food to replenish your energy level. What are the others... The Observatory Fine Dinning Restaurant, Lupins Café, Grouse Grind Coffee Bar and the Rusty Rail.
Once you are ready to head back down, you have two options. You can return down the Grind the way you came, or enjoy a three-minute descent via the Gondola. You can buy a one-way return-to-earth Gondola ticket in the Crows Nest for $5.00.
2:30 p.m.
Return to the base of the Mountain.
Catch the #236 bus back to Lonsdale Quay where you will board the SeaBus. Take the SeaBus back to Waterfront Station. Walk out front of the station to Cordova. Catch the #50 Bus (False Creek). Get off at the entrance to Granville Island.
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