Another well-known Vancouver activity is the Grouse Grind. Not for the weak - or the ill-prepared (as we were on this day)! Often referred to as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” the trail covers 2.9kms of rugged terrain, up a a 30° slope. To increase the challenge, there isn't much choice of stride because there is almost 3000 steps going up the side of the mountain. The first time we did this hike, we thought "how hard can it be" and went directly after a hearty breakfast at a greasy spoon. That was a mistake!