Grouse Grind covered with deep snow and still closed

Grouse Grind trail covered with snow on April 24, 2018. (Metro Vancouver Regional District)

Temperatures will be warming up to the mid-to-high 20s in parts of Metro Vancouver today, but that doesn’t mean the Grouse Grind is ready for the summer hiking season – not even close.

Metro Vancouver Regional District is warning the public that the popular trail at Grouse Mountain remains closed because of thick snow and ice cover. In fact, approximately a metre of snow remains over spot higher elevation spots of the trail, making it highly unsafe.

By the looks of it, the trail will likely be closed for a few more weeks at the very least. It’s possible the delays could go well into June, given that the North Shore mountains saw ample snow over the past winter. This was also the case last year, as the trail did not open until June 17, 2017 for the same reason.

Here’s a rundown of the Grouse Grind’s recent opening dates:

2017 – June 17
2016 – May 2
2015 – May 8
2014 – May 17
2013 – May 11
2012 – May 19
2011 – June 11

Alternatively, the Regional District is recommending avid outdoor enthusiasts to use the nearby BCMC Trail at Grouse Mountain.

The Grouse Grind is a 2.9 km trail up the face of Grouse Mountain and hikers are reminded that the trail is only to be used for ascents.

Descents are prohibited for safety reasons, due to the high number of hikers ascending the trail, and the impact on the trail’s conditions. Hikers can get down using the Grouse Mountain aerial tram for $10.

About 150,000 people use the trail every year; most hikers take an average of 90 minutes to complete the gruelling workout.

Although the Grouse Grind ends at Grouse Mountain Resort, the trail is maintained and operated by the Metro Vancouver Regional District.

See also