Locals and tourists alike in Metro Vancouver can once again add another challenge to their annual bucket list – the Grouse Grind has reopened on Tuesday.
The Metro Vancouver Regional District says the trailhead will be open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, and when the weather allows, those hours may be extended further into the summer.
This is the second time that the Ground Grind has been opened this year following the regional district’s temporary opening of the trail for a few days in February during a few days of unusually warm temperatures.
For about two weeks, the trail was deemed safe enough to allow hikers to go up the notoriously challenging course, until the regional district closed it again on February 19, citing the return of “hazardous winter conditions.”
Some places in the Lower Mainland experienced temperatures of about 15 C and higher during that period.
Now, the Grouse Grind has opened for good for the season, and the regional district says that some sections of stairs have been replaced to improve safety.
“The changes made to the Grouse Grind during the off-season make it safer for hikers and help the trail last longer,” said John McEwen, chair of the regional parks committee.
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Additional maintenance will happen in October and November when the Grouse Grind closes for about three weeks.
Starting at 300 metres of elevation, the 2.5-km trail brings hikers to a height of approximately 1,100 metres.
Authorities remind hikers to be prepared by wearing appropriate footwear and clothing and bringing water, food, and a cellphone.
Mike Hurley, Metro Vancouver’s chair, says the hike is a great way to boost mental and physical health after a long, rainy winter.
However, he didn’t say if he is planning to go up the trail this season.