Description
Also known as "The Peak of Vancouver", Grouse Mountain lies only five miles north of the city that bears its nickname. Aside from being a popular tourist attraction, Grouse Mountain offers splendid views of Vancouver, the Canadian Rockies, and the northern Cascades, and can be hiked with the entire family. In the winter, the mountain serves as a ski resort that is very popular with Vancouver's skiing crowd because of its easy accessibility and closeness. Snowshoeing, sleigh rides, and ice skating are also done in the winter. During the summer months, one can take the Grouse Mountain Gondola, also called the Skyride. The Skyride opened in 1966 and could hold 45 passengers. Since then it has been improved and now can hold 100 passengers. An alternative to taking the Skyride is to hike the Grouse Grind Trail from the Capilano Valley to the peak chalet, an observatory point that has resaurants and bars. From here, the summit is within a twenty minute's hike. Walking from the chalet to the summit of Grouse, one will pass by the wolf and bear habitat that attracts so many tourists. Throughout summer, daily shows are held, such as a bird show, a lumberjack show and Endangered Wildlife ranger talks. A third great route, especially for mountain bikers, is the Old Grouse Mountain Highway. A twisty, steep road that leads to the summit, the Old Grouse is a demanding bike ride.
After summitting, stop by the Observatory Restaurant at the chalet. I personally haven't eaten there, but from what I hear, the food and service are world-class and the views of Vancouver are spectacular, especially at night. If you're looking for something a little less fancy, try the Altitudes Bistro, a less-formal place, yet still satisfactory before your descent down the Grouse Grind or ride down the gondola.
|
