Grouse Mountain: Day Trips and Tours from Vancouver

A day trip to the Peak of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain, is a great way to escape the fast-paced city life and immerse yourself in an excursion into nature. Experience the peaceful environment above the clouds with various educational and cultural activities to choose from.

Located within proximity to the city of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is a majestic natural wonder. It is an excellent place to enjoy a sunny day and get a bird's eye view of the city.

How to get to Grouse Mountain from Vancouver?

The base of Grouse Mountain is located within a 20-minute drive from the city center of Vancouver in the Northshore Mountains of the Pacific Ranges. At a height of around 1,200 meters, this mountain provides a unique view of Vancouver and is the location of a popular alpine ski area.

From Vancouver to Grouse Mountain by car

Depending on the time of the year, a journey from downtown Vancouver to Grouse Mountain can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 35 minutes. Take route 99 before turning right to Marine Drive.

After that, take the first left to Capilano Road, which connects the Nancy Greene Way. Keep going on this road, and you will reach your destination within a few minutes.

From Vancouver to Grouse Mountain by bus/public transport

It is possible to take public transit to Grouse Mountain, although this is not the fastest route. Take a bus from Georgia Street to the park. The journey from Vancouver to Grouse Mountain will take around one hour and is very scenic.

The pricing for the bus fares starts at C$3.05 for adults and C$2.00 for children aged 5 to 13. Exit the bus at Grouse Mountain Skyride station. From here, it is just a few minutes on foot to the Skyride station.

Guided tour to Grouse Mountain from Vancouver

There are several types of tours available if you’re planning on seeing Grouse Mountain as part of a group excursion. A guided tour can be booked in advance to secure a spot or directly when reaching the mountain.

Guided tours to Grouse Mountain generally include pickup and drop-off, which is why pre-booking can be helpful. A trip to Grouse Mountain also often includes a visit to the world's largest suspension footbridge, the Capilano Bridge.

How much Does the Entrance Ticket to Grouse Mountain Cost?

Grouse Mountain is arguably the most famous tourist attraction in Vancouver and is often jam-packed with visitors, especially during Christmas. For this reason, it is recommended to book your entrance ticket to Grouse Mountain in advance.

Entrance prices are as follows:

• Adults (18-64): C$69.00
• Seniors (65+): C$59.00
• Youth (13-17): C$49.00
• Children (5-12): C$36.00
• Toddlers (below 5): free
• Family (2 adults and 2 children): C$179.00

The admission ticket to Grouse Mountain includes a round trip ticket with the Skyride, as well as access to other nearby attractions.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Grouse Mountain from Vancouver?

Begin your day in Vancouver, where you’ll meet your tour group and will be introduced to your guide. Hop on an air-conditioned bus or van, and begin the short journey to Grouse Mountain.

The tour will take you through Stanley Park, a 405-hectare park, which is well worth a visit if you get the chance on another day.

At the end of the park, the tour will cross the Lion's Gate Bridge, from where you can enjoy views of the Great Harbor of Vancouver to the right and the West Bay to the left.

After arriving at the base of Grouse Mountain, the group will change over to the Skyride, which takes visitors to the summit. During the eight-minute Skyride, you’ll be able to enjoy the fantastic views over British Columbia.

On top of Grouse Mountain, visitors will have lots of activities to choose from. However, depending on the season, the availability of some attractions may vary.

• Visiting the wildlife refuge
• Several dining options
• The world-famous lumberjack show
• Meeting Coola and Grinder, local grizzly bears
• Witnessing the "Birds in Motion" demonstration
• Watching a movie at the "Theater in the Sky”

The next stop of the guided tour is the Capilano Suspension Bridge, a 136-meter bridge crossing an impressive river. This is a thrilling experience for adventure seekers looking to get their adrenaline pumping.

Of course, your expert tour guide will be there to teach you all about the different traditions of the local Salish people. At this point, you’ll have some independent exploration time to experience this remarkable place’s natural beauty before beginning your journey back from Grouse Mountain to Vancouver.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Grouse Mountain?

Grouse Mountain is a round-the-year tour destination and there are various kinds of tours available to visit the area. You can choose small group tours, guided tours, unguided tours, private tours, day trips and night snow lifts.

Guided tour to Grouse Mountain from Vancouver

Join a half-day excursion to Grouse Mountain, which will turn into a fun jaunt into nature. Your tour guide will tell you everything you need to know about the natural park and its history.

Visitors will have the option to move freely around the mountain without a guide, but will have to gather at a meeting point after a few hours to return to Vancouver.

Private tour to Grouse Mountain from Vancouver

Private tours are a great option if you want to enjoy time with your family on a fun jaunt to Grouse Mountain. Your private tour guide will spend the day with you, taking you on an unforgettable adventure.

An exclusive private tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Vancouver in a comfortable vehicle. In case you would like to stop along the way for photos during your journey to Grouse Mountain, your driver will be happy to adjust to your needs.

Keep in mind that food and drinks are not always included in private tours, so bring some extra cash for lunch.

How much does a tour to Grouse Mountain from Vancouver cost?

The cost of a tour to Grouse Mountain from Vancouver can vary depending on the type of tour and also the number of participants.

Tickets for standard guided tours start at €151 per person and last for approximately seven hours. This price is comparatively high due to the fact that ticket prices for the Skyride alone are pricey.

A small group tour to Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge costs around €198 per person, while a private tour is priced at €300 or more.

What will you see and do in Grouse Mountain?

Grouse Mountain offers a great variety of things to do for its visitors. The Skyride is the most popular activity and the majority of visitors choose to buy tickets for it. It is operational from 9 AM to 9 PM every day.

Other activities you can participate in on a day trip to Grouse Mountain include:

• Mountain Ropes Adventure
• Peak Chairlift Ride (available from 11 AM to 7 PM)
• Informational events held by rangers
• Visiting the Grizzly Bear Habitat (available from 9 AM to 9 PM)
• Grouse Grind Hiking Trail (accessible from 7 AM to 7 PM)
• Lumberjack show
• Birds in Motion Demonstration
• Owl Talks Bird Show
• Theater in the Sky (available from 9 AM to 8 PM)

When is Grouse Mountain open over the year?

The mountain is open for tourists year-round. Visiting times are daily from 9 AM to 9 PM.

What is the best time to visit Grouse Mountain?

A visit to Grouse Mountain during winter is an excellent choice for ski enthusiasts. The mountain is a fantastic alpine ski area for all levels.

It is also possible to experience Christmas atop Grouse Mountain, which is very popular among local families. Unfortunately, many attractions associated with the mountain are closed during winter.

Summer is a great time for an excursion to Grouse Mountain since most of its attractions will be open to visitors. Experience the exciting lumberjack show or go for a hike along the Grouse Grind Trail.

Travel tips

• You can book tickets online to avoid having to stand in line for the Skyride.
• Take a jacket on your day trip to Grouse Mountain, even during summer. The Skyride might be chilly since the windows are permanently open for better views.
• All skis and snowboards should be booked online beforehand to avoid the on-site rental surcharge. Grouse Mountain can become very busy during sky season, so be prepared to wait in line.
• Take only essential items with you to the mountain. There are limited lockers available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Drinking or eating is not allowed inside Skyride and its terminals. Make sure to have a snack either before or after your ride.
• Mealtimes can be busy, so plan for an early or late lunch to avoid the lines.