Stair-filled hikes that rival the Grouse Grind for title of Nature's StairMaster
Get ready for OK Times with the Okanagan Spring Summer Pack.
If you’ve been living in Vancouver for any length of time, you’ve probably climbed the Grouse Grind.
It’s a hike that’s on everyone’s to-do list every summer and arguably the most popular stair-filled hike in the region.
But there are so many other gorgeous hikes to mix up your summer routine and get your endorphins pumping.
If you’re ready to give the Grouse Grind a break, check out this list below. These natural wonders are definitely in the running to take away the title of Nature’s StairMaster from the beloved Grind.
For your own safety, please make sure you are prepared before heading out on your next adventure. Information on how to prepare for your trip and stay safe while on your hike is available from North Shore Rescue and AdventureSmart.
Abby Grind
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The Abby Grind in Abbotsford isn’t too steep, so your knees will thank you. It’s a park of the Glenn Ryder Trail and runs two kilometres, gaining about 320 meters in elevation. Climb this trail to break a sweat that isn’t as strenuous (and probably not as crowded) as the Grouse Grind.
Address: 4343 Lakemount Road, Abbotsford
Velodrome Trail
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The Velodrome Trail is sometimes called the Burnaby Grind as well, because of its steep incline as you climb up the north side of Burnaby Mountain. Walk up more than 500 wooden steps in this worthy workout this summer and on the way, you’ll be greeted by Japanese totem poles and the Horizons Restaurant.
Address: 7564 Barnet Highway, Burnaby
Coquitlam Crunch
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“Doing the Crunch” will be well worth your effort. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views of Coquitlam City. This 2.2-kilometre climb gains about 242 metres in elevation with over 890 steps. The city also recently added a second route so you can be sure that the crowding won’t get too bad.
Address: 1248 Lansdowne Drive, Coquitlam
Soames Hill Park
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This gorgeous hike in Gibsons will supply you with nature pics for the whole summer with views of Howe Sound, the North Shore mountains, Keats, Gambier and Bowen Islands, Gibsons, and Georgia Strait. Hike up 434 steps with over 333 feet of railing and enjoy what you see at the top with a snack break.
Address: 639 Bridgeman Road, Gibsons
Wreck Beach
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Don’t forget something in your car, because the steps up and down to Wreck Beach may be short but steep. This short climb is a great compromise between hiking and bumming on the beach. The hike up and down these steps will only take you around 10 minutes tops each way, so you can spend a good couple of hours soaking up the sun on this clothing-optional beach.
Address: Wreck Beach at UBC Campus, Vancouver
1001 Steps
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Disclaimer: this hike doesn’t actually have 1001 steps, it’s just a catchy name. This is another trail that will be pretty easy on your knees and tush. The path leads you down 40 metres and another 200 metres on no incline to a beach with gorgeous ocean views. If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll catch a look at some seals.
Address: 15a Avenue, Surrey
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