📍 Grouse Grind | The "Stairmaster of Nature" at Vancouver's Doorstep

After years in Vancouver, I finally conquered the legendary Grouse Grind yesterday—a hike nicknamed "Mother Nature’s Stairmaster" for good reason! 🌿 The Experience: Post-rain ascent: Humid yet crisp air, mist weaving through towering cedars—like stepping into a Hayao Miyazaki forest 🍃🌲. Summit surprise: Cloudy at the base, but above the clouds at the top—pure magic ☁️✨. ⚠️ Brutal Reality Check: 2.5km trail, 800m elevation gain—all steep stone/earth steps. Zero flat sections—this isn’t a stroll, it’s a leg-burning, knee-quaking workout‼️ Reward? Panoramic views that make the pain worth it 🤍. 🚌 Getting There: From downtown: SkyTrain to Waterfront → SeaBus (must-do for harbor views! 🌊) → Bus 236 to Grouse Mountain. Drivers: Parking available at the base. 🎒 Pro Tips: ✔️ Grippy hiking shoes are a must. ✔️ Quick-dry clothing—you’ll sweat! 💦 ✔️ Bring water & snacks—no facilities en route. ✔️ Pace yourself; rest often to soak in the views. ✔️ Turn back before the 1/4 mark if needed (AEDs available beyond that point). ✔️ No pets, and headphones only for music. ✔️ Gondola down if legs give out! #VancouverHikes #GrouseGrind #NorthShoreAdventures #StairmasterOfNature #BCWild 🌲💪