Grouse Mountain fully re-opens to public with new COVID-19 measures

NORTH VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — Grouse Mountain is finally fully re-opening to the public, following a closure that started back in March when the COVID-19 pandemic took over.

But like anything that has to do with COVID-19, be prepared to follow a new set of new safety rules.

It is all part of the new normal that includes hand sanitizer stations throughout the resort and some changes to the mountain’s attractions.

“Also to note on the Skyride, is that the use of face masks are mandatory as it’s closer quarters than the physical distancing guidelines,” says Julia Grant, spokesperson for the mountain. “And we are doing temperature screening for all guests prior to boarding.”

She explains people will have to book tickets in advance to help manage capacity and reduce potential line-ups. Capacity has been reduced on the Skyride but Grant insists that won’t lead to delays.

Re-opening is a relief, stresses Grant, adding it’s been a difficult few months for the mountain financially.

“Our seasonal staff at the end of the winter season finished up their contracts with us. We did then reduce down to a very small number of staff at the mountain as people went on temporary leave. But we’ve been able to start bringing people back with the reopening, which is great.”

She adds visitors can still grab a bite to eat on the mountain, but are being encouraged to order and pay online. However dine-in seating, albeit spaced out, is available.

“We’ve limited capacity in our facilities,” Grant says, “And we’ve done spaced seating. There’s some activity-specific ones, so with zip-lines or mountain rope. But it’s all to make sure people can come out and enjoy the outdoors safely.”

The birds in motion demonstration and the popular Lumberjack Show are not open, but Grouse has expanded its owl program. The zipline is open and the bears are always welcoming visitors.

Grouse Mountain closed on March 16th and this is part of its phase 2 re-opening.