Calling all Greater Vancouver Grinders (and visiting hikers), we’re sure you’ve noticed that the rain has finally eased up, and the warmer temperatures have made their appearance at the midpoint of spring 2018. As of this week, most of the snow has melted away from the Grouse Grind.

The improved conditions have prompted the Grouse Mountain Regional Park board to officially open the Grouse Grind Trail today, Wednesday, May 2. While our efforts (and that of others) in working with the Parks Board have kept the Grind sporadically open (weather permitting) throughout the off-season, the official status is nice to see, especially after such a late start back in 2017.

However, the news is to be taken with a slight grain of salt. On May 22, the day after the May long weekend, the Grouse Grind Trail will CLOSE for seasonal safety maintenance. The trail will be off limits for approximately 3 weeks, while all fingers are crossed that it will open in time to take advantage of the favorable predicted forecast (it’s supposed to be an early, warm, and dry summer). Below, we have provided some additional and/or expanded information for your reference.

Early May 2018 Grouse Grind Trail Updates That You Need to Know

Official 2018 Grouse Grind Opening

May 2, 2018.

Updated Trail Entry Times

The gate to the Grouse Grind Trail opens at 6:15 AM, with the last entry at 6 PM.

What to Wear

Early spring conditions prevail, with very cool temperatures at the peak of the trail. Remember to dress in layers, and complete this checklist of things to bring on the Grouse Grind at this time of the year.

Seasonal Safety Maintenance Closure Dates

As mentioned above, the Parks Board has informed us that the Grouse Grind Trail will be closed for seasonal safety maintenance. This will begin on May 22 and the trail is expected to remain closed for approximately three weeks. Safety maintenance, while it may seem inconvenient, is for your benefit. Work includes rock scaling, dangerous tree removal, step repair, and safety netting replacement.

Gondola Price Increased to $15

The Parks Board may have their hands full with keeping people from hiking back down the Grind this 2018 hiking season. The price of the gondola ride down is now $15 (from $10) which will have more people hiking back down the Grind (please don’t) and/or the BCMC. This is a pretty significant price increase that may have some pointing fingers at the new ownership which took over resort operations months ago. In the end, we suppose it’s a small price to pay for the whole amazing outdoor experience.

Stay tuned for further updates through the weeks and months ahead. Until then, happy (and safe) trails!