Overview
Grouse Mountain is Vancouver’s premier mountain destination, located just 15 minutes from downtown. Whether you're here in winter or summer, the mountain delivers a diverse range of outdoor experiences—from alpine skiing and snowboarding to scenic hikes and wildlife encounters.

History & Highlights

Historic beginnings: Named in 1894 after hunters found a blue grouse; early ski and transport infrastructure dates from the 1930s–1960s.
Skyride & Gondolas: The original Skyride opened in 1966, and most recently (December 2024) the Blue Grouse Gondola debuted after a $35 million upgrade.
Biking & Adventure: Summer features ziplining, ropes courses, bike parks and scenic eco‑walks. Winter sees four chairlifts, terrain parks, and extensive snowmaking for reliable conditions.

Activities by Season

Winter: 33 runs (ranging beginner to expert), night skiing, snowshoe trails, scenicchair rides, ice skating outdoors.
Summer: The famed Grouse Grind (“Mother Nature’s Stairmaster”), wildlife refuge with grizzly bears and owls, disc golf, paragliding, mountain biking, and educational programs.

Wildlife & Conservation
Home to orphaned grizzly bears (Grinder, Coola), raptors and wolves. The Refuge for Endangered Wildlife offers guided ranger programs and habitats for rescued animals.

Accessibility & Amenities
Fully wheelchair‑accessible base and some mountaintop facilities with adaptive skiing via Vancouver Adaptive Snow Sports. Limited mobility access on rough terrain is noted.

Sustainability
The Eye of the Wind turbine (since 2010) generates on‑site power (~25%) and doubles as educational highlight.

Visitor Info
Annual passes (~CA$205), day admissions include Skyride, chairlifts, and many shows/attractions; paid add‑ons for ziplines, paragliding, bike park passes.
Guest services onsite and off‑mountain shuttle from Downtown Vancouver.

Verdict
Grouse Mountain delivers a polished, multi‑season experience within minutes of the city. Expect steep trails (Grouse Grind), winter sports, family‑friendly nature programs, and enhancements like the 2024 gondola upgrade. A solid pick for locals and tourists seeking alpine adventure close to Vancouver.