Image: Venture Vancouver
Have you yearned for some masochistically satisfying Grouse Grind-ing of late? Apparently, you’re not alone. During the stretch of mild weather, there has been an uptick in the number of people bypassing the Grouse Grind locked gate to workout. But it’s too soon to hike the trail, despite the weather. Doing so is causing harm.
Grouse Grind is usually closed from November to May to protect. Why? Not only hikers from danger but also to reduce the impact to the trail from use in wet conditions during late winter and early spring. Stomping all over the soil during this time can worsen erosion and expose tree roots. And every year prior to the spring opening, the regional district’s maintenance crews perform extensive work to stabilize the trail.
According to an interview with Mike Mayers, the Superintended in Environmental Management for Metro Vancouver, on VcB: “Using the trail in these conditions can cause permanent changes, which can increase soil erosion and exposes tree roots. When roots are exposed and people step on them the trees can die and have to be removed… In fact, by using the trail in the wetter months hikers can delay the trail’s spring opening because of the amount of extra work required to ensure the trail is safe,” Mayers adds.
You can read the full story here. In the meantime, take a break from nature’s best staircase so the rest of us can use it come spring.
Last modified: February 24, 2015
