Heads up, hikers, the Grouse Grind will be closing for several weeks after Thanksgiving.
According to the Metro Vancouver Regional District, annual trail maintenance is to blame for the closure.
Fortunately, you still have the long weekend to enjoy one of Metro Vancouver’s most popular trails, as it will be closing on Oct. 14.
The reopening of the Grouse Grind is contingent upon the weather, but the district hopes to reopen on Nov. 8.
“The Grouse Grind Trail attracts approximately 250,000 visitors each year, and is most heavily trafficked during the spring and summer months. This intensive use means maintenance is required each fall,” the district said in a release.
Some of the areas that crews will be working on include the upper section of the trail. Crews will be repairing and replacing steps and retaining walls “to increase trail resilience.”
Detours will not be possible during this work.
“The Grouse Grind Trail must be closed during these upgrades because the terrain where the work is taking place is steep and hazardous,” the district said.
“Visitors are urged to stay off the trail while it’s closed — ignoring the closure may result in serious injury and delay reopening.”
There will still be another route available that is similar in difficulty to the grind.
“The BCMC Route and the Baden-Powell Trail will be open during this time. The BCMC Route is similar to the Grouse Grind Trail in length and elevation, and ends in the same location. For anyone choosing to hike the BCMC Route, it’s strongly recommended they wear hiking shoes with good ankle support, carry lots of water and a snack, and bring an extra layer of clothing for warmth.”
The Grouse Grind joins another popular attraction that will be closed for a bit. In mid-September, we reported that the Lynn Canyon suspension bridge would be closed for a period of two to three months.