Difficulty: Most Difficult ♦︎
Length: 1.8 miles one way (no downhill travel allowed)
Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet
Dog Friendly: No
Trailhead coordinates (copy + paste): 49.3712, -123.0984
Directions: There is a large pay parking lot at the base of the trailhead. The trail is well-marked and very easy to follow from here.
As the name implies, this hike is a grind. 2,830 stairs built into the forested mountainside will take you up the face of Grouse Mountain at an alarmingly steep grade. Though some extreme athletes have completed the climb in under 30 minutes (the official record is 23:48), you shouldn't hold yourself to that standard the first time, if ever. It is important to note that the trail allows uphill travel only, which means if you choose to go, you go— no turning around. The stairs are too narrow, steep, and crowded for downhill travel. Drink water, don't wear heels or flip-flops (evidently, it does need to be said), leave the kids at home, and just keep climbing. The feeling of accomplishment that rushes over you at the top will make you want to come back again tomorrow! Note: since no downhill travel is allowed, you will need to purchase a tram ticket at the top for $15, so be sure to carry your wallet. For those who don't want to ride the tram down and still have some juice left, there is an alternate trail that returns to the base (see last photo below).
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