Are you searching for Grouse Mountain winter activities as a way to break away from your busy schedule? Or maybe you’re a visitor looking to enjoy Vancouver’s very own winter wonderland.
Well, you’ve come to the right place! Far more than just a ski hill, the “Peak of Vancouver” offers a myriad of thrilling activities amongst its breathtaking snowy landscapes.
This makes it an ideal destination to embrace the wonders of the winter season. So, let’s look at what to do at Grouse Mountain in winter⛷️❄️
Grouse Mountain Winter Activities
I’ve carefully curated a list of the best Grouse Mountain winter activities for 2023.
But before embarking on your journey to the Peak of Vancouver, you’re gonna need to buy a ticket.
But before we get into the prices, keep in mind your Grouse Mountain winter admission provides access to the following activities:
- Snowshoeing
- Skiing
- Sliding Zone
- Outdoor skating
- Light Walk
- Skyride
- Theatre in the Sky (year-round)
Grouse Mountain Admission
- Adult (18-65) – $72.56 CAD
- Senior (66+) – $61.96
- Youth (13-18) – $51.45
- Child (3-12) – $37.80
- Infants (0-3) – Free
Related: How to get to Grouse Mountain
Try the Fastest Growing Wintertime Outdoor Sport
If you’re looking for a peaceful Wintertime escape to Grouse’s pristine alpine terrain, then Snowshoeing may be just the activity you’ve been looking for.
Haven’t tried it yet? Then, the Munday Alpine Snowshoe Park is the perfect place to start. Featuring four different trails targeted at varying difficulty levels, it’s as equally well suited to beginners as grizzled vets.
However, I suggest trying your hand at the Winter Grind if you’re looking for a real challenge. This route was completed to rival the difficulty and intensity of its Summertime cousin, the famous Grouse Grind.
Admission to the trails is included with your mountain admission or lift ticket. Equipment rentals ($20) and snowshoe clinics are available at the Fireside Hut by the ice skating pond.
Related: Vancouver Snowshoeing: A Winter Wonderland Awaits
Get up in the Cut by Skiing Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is home to 33 ski runs, ranging from relaxing machine-groomed greens to heart-pumping black diamonds. However, one run stands above the rest, the iconic “cut.”
After 18 years of boarding, I think there’s still no better run. CNN seems to agree, ranking the Cut amongst its top 100 runs in the world.
You’ll be presented with spectacular views of the entire city as you carve your way down the mountain. Trust me, it’s a true Vancouver right of passage.
With a season that typically lasts from late November to early May, a large selection of budget-friendly night skiing runs and remarkable proximity to Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is perfect for visitors looking to sneak in a day of skiing while in town.
Equipment rentals and lessons are available on-site. To purchase your lift tickets, click on the button below.
Related: Your Complete Grouse Mountain Skiing Guide
Slip and Slide Around the Grouse Mountain Sliding Zone
Looking for Grouse Mountain winter activities that are a little more family-friendly?
The Grouse Mountain Sliding Zone provides kids (or the young at heart!) with the opportunity to blaze down a powdery slope in a sled.
There are two fully designated lanes of groomed terrain on offer for your kids to enjoy some Winter fun safely.
Sleds must be rented for $5.00 from the Sliding Zone Hut at the top of the runs. Access is included in your lift ticket or admission.
Lace ’em Up and Go for a Mountain Top Skate
Ever wanted to skate up a storm outdoors in a pristine alpine environment? Here’s your chance.
Grouse Mountain is home to the Lower Mainland’s only mountain-top skating rink. The popular 8,000-square-foot pond is conveniently located just outside the peak chalet.
You’ll feel the crisp winter air blow through your hair as you embrace your inner Nancy Kerrigan – don’t worry, they’ve got helmets!
And if you can swing 15 friends and $395 together, you can even get a mountaintop hockey game going!
Skates and helmets can be rented from the Fireside Hut adjacent to the rink.
Related: The Best Day Trips from Vancouver in Winter
Visit Santa at Vancouver’s North Pole
If you’re fortunate to be in Vancouver During Christmas, then a trip up the mountain is simply a must.
During the Peak of Christmas event, Grouse transforms into a festive winter wonderland that could warm the heart of even Ebenezer Scrooge himself.
Lasting from late November to early January, the event is one of the top things to do in Vancouver with kids. Youngsters can do arts and crafts, take a photo with Santa, meet real live reindeer, and visit the elves’ headquarters.
The beautiful Light Walk is one of the most Instagrammable sights in the city. Walk through a stunning light tunnel all the way to Blue Grouse Lake, which is beautifully adorned with festive light installations.
Families will also enjoy being transported around the snow-covered terrain on one of the legendary sleigh rides! These can be found just behind Santa’s workshop throughout the Winter season.
And the best part is that all these wonderful events are included in your mountain admission!
Related: Visit the Vancouver Christmas Market
Discover Majestic Peaks on the Grouse Mountain Skyride
Your Grouse Mountain admission allows you to experience the awe-inspiring Grouse Mountain Skyride. This exhilarating journey takes you high above the towering Douglas firs, revealing breathtaking vistas of Vancouver, the Pacific Ocean, and the majestic Coast Mountains.
As North America’s largest aerial tramway system, the Skyride serves as your gateway to the pristine nature found at The Peak of Vancouver, offering an adventure that is as captivating as the destination itself.
Whether you’re seeking the perfect scenic photograph or a delightful dinner at Altitudes Bistro, your extraordinary escapade begins the moment you step aboard the Skyride.
The Skyride operates throughout the year, with departures every 15 minutes, while the first downhill Skyride for hikers sets off at 7:30 am.
Included with either a Mountain Admission Ticket or an Annual Pass, a round-trip on the Skyride is available, and it is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance.
Related: How Long Does the Grouse Mountain Skyride Take?
Experience a Cinematic Journey at The Theater in the Sky
Discover the wonders of British Columbia’s wildlife and natural beauty at Grouse Mountain’s Theater in the Sky. This high-definition cinema offers an immersive experience, showcasing captivating documentaries like “Extremely Wild,” a fascinating Discovery Channel production that delves into the lives of Grouse Mountain’s two resident grizzly bears.
Additionally, the theatre offers “The Wild Within,” an exploration of British Columbia’s untamed natural surroundings, and “Exposed,” an enthralling tale of the protected Great Bear Rainforest.
Whether you are seeking knowledge about the local wildlife or a deeper understanding of mountain culture, Grouse Mountain’s Theater in the Sky is the perfect destination to expand your horizons and appreciate the wonders of British Columbia’s majestic landscapes.
Related: When Does Grouse Mountain Open for Skiing?
Things to do at Grouse Mountain in Winter FAQs
What are the top things to do at Grouse Mountain during winter?
The most popular things to do at Grouse Mountain during winter include winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, skating, and tubing. But there’s also a host of activities for the whole family at this winter wonderland.
During the holidays, the Peak of Christmas event brings a host of Christmas activities such as the light walk, sleigh rides, as well as arts and crafts for children. You can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the city at a restaurant or cafe or even catch a movie at the Theatre in the Sky.
Can I ski or snowboard at Grouse Mountain?
Absolutely! Grouse Mountain offers skiing and snowboarding across a variety of runs that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. Plus, there are rental facilities for equipment if you don’t bring your own.
How much do Grouse Mountain lift tickets cost?
The cost of lift tickets at Grouse Mountain can be found below:
Day Tickets
- Adults: $78.75
- Seniors (65+) and Youth (13-18): $57.75
- Children (5-12): $28.35
*Children 4 and under are free.
Night Tickets
- Adults: $49.00
- Seniors (65+) and Youth (13-18): $40.00
- Children (5-12): $23.00
*Children 4 and under are free.
I’m not into winter sports; can I still enjoy Grouse Mountain in winter?
Absolutely! Even if winter sports aren’t your thing, Grouse Mountain in winter offers the Skyride aerial tramway that provides stunning panoramic views of the city, the Pacific Ocean, and the Gulf Islands. The scenic vistas, Peak of Christmas event, Theatre in the Sky, and dining experiences make it a must-visit for everyone.
What dining options are available on Grouse Mountain in winter?
There are several dining options ranging from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants. Whether you’re craving a warm cocoa or a gourmet meal, Grouse Mountain’s eateries have something to satiate every palate. Here’s a quick peak below:
- Altitudes Bistro (casual dining)
- The Observatory (fine dining)
- Lupins Cafe (self-serve fare)
- Grouse Grind Cafe (cafe)
- Starbucks
How do I get to Grouse Mountain?
You can find a quick summary of the most popular ways to get to Grouse Mountain below:
- By Car:
- Drive to North Vancouver.
- Follow signs for Capilano Road, which leads you directly to Grouse Mountain.
- There’s parking available at the base if you’re driving.
- By Public Transit:
- Take the SkyTrain’s Expo or Millennium Line and get off at Waterfront Station.
- Connect to the SeaBus and take the ferry to Lonsdale Quay.
- From Lonsdale Quay, hop onto Bus 236 directly to Grouse Mountain.
- By Shuttle:
- Grouse Mountain offers a shuttle service from various points in Vancouver.
- Check the Grouse Mountain website for shuttle timings and pickup locations.
Ready To Get Started With Your Grouse Mountain Winter Activities?
As you can see, there is a wide array of Grouse winter activities that make the destination so much more than Vancouver’s local ski hill of choice.
Hopefully, my list has managed to pique your interest in paying a visit to the “Peak of Vancouver” this winter.
And remember, if you have any questions about Grouse Mountain winter activities or anything else Vancouver-related, feel free to leave a comment below.
Enjoy the Mountain❄️⛷️
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