Crown Mountain via Grouse Mountain
Crown Mountain, visible from downtown Vancouver towering above Grouse Mountain, was originally named 150 years ago due to its crown like shape. This challenging hike, recommended only to the experienced hiker, offers phenomenal views of the vast Greater Vancouver Area and far beyond the Canadian border to the south as well as beautifully deep within the North Shore Mountains. Crown’s sharp peak 1,504 m (4,935 ft) above sea level is a pleasure to stand upon, although extreme caution is necessary as any mistake can be deadly.
From the Grouse Mountain Chalet follow the bear tracks to the grizzly enclosure. Go around the grizzly enclosure and head up a gravel road leading left. On the gravel road you will notice a board and a hiker registration. Fill one of the registration forms in case of any mishaps as the trail to Crown Mountain contains dangerous and exposed sections of trail.
The gravel road will quickly end at a loop and the trail continues up leftwards from there. Follow the alpine trail markers as the next km or so can be confusing. You will pass under a black pipe and shortly after arrive at a zip line platform. If you reach the platform, you are going the right way.
Continue along the Alpine Trail. The trail will gain elevation until reaching a plateau. After this, the trail becomes steep and technical. Descend down steep rocky, rooty and muddy terrain. There will be chains to aid your descent. The trail will cross a boulder field and reach Hanes Pass shortly after. Follow the trail markers pointing towards Crown Mountain.
The next 1.9 km to the summit are gruesomely steep and challenging. Continue up the large steps over roots and rocks. After a few hundred meters of absolute torture the trail will lead below a cliff on the right and eventually you will have to climb up the rock face. Follow the yellow paint markers on the rocks for the easiest route. There will be 2 of these climbs, the second one being the most technical. Take your time and head up the cliff.
The trail will descend to a creek bed and back up on the other side. Keep climbing up the steep terrain and step up the large rocks. The trail will open up to a plateau and lead to the right where you will able to rest your legs for a short period. Cross over the boulders and continue up the trail. You will reach the crown ridge and the view on the other side will blow your mind. Continue up to the left and shortly after to the right where the exposed scrambling begins. The following and last section of the trail is not for the faint heart. Follow the markers and climb up the left side of the ridge until you reach the summit of Crown Mountain.
Enjoy the phenomenal 360 degree view of the city far below, into the mountains and of Mount Baker in the distance. Return to Grouse Mountain Chalet the way you came when ready.
