Disc Golf

Ever tried flinging a disc into the wild mountain air and watching it sail toward a distant metal basket perched on the edge of a cliff? If not, welcome to disc golf—a hybrid of hiking, strategy, and adrenaline. Vancouver’s Grouse Mountain isn’t just a place for skiing or sightseeing; it’s home to one of the most scenic and challenging disc golf courses in British Columbia. Whether you’re a newbie asking “what is disc golf?”, or a seasoned player toting a ZÜCA disc golf cart, this high-altitude experience blends outdoor thrills with light-hearted competition.

 

What to Know

Disc golf is often described as golf’s cooler, more laid-back cousin. Instead of clubs and golf balls, you throw disc golf discs—some designed for distance, some for precision—toward a metal disc golf basket. The goal? Get your disc into the basket using the fewest tosses possible.

 

Perched atop The Cut, Grouse Mountain’s 18-hole course winds through forested fairways, features significant elevation changes, and treats players to sweeping, breathtaking vistas that can captivate even the most focused golfer. If you're wondering how to play disc golf, don’t worry. The course is designed with everyone in mind: the front nine holes are beginner-friendly while the back nine offer a rewarding challenge for experienced players. Don’t have gear? No stress. A complete disc golf set or individual disc golf accessories are available for purchase at Outfitters on-site.

 

 

How to Get There

Reaching Grouse Mountain is half the fun—there are multiple scenic ways to get there:

 

By Car:

From downtown Vancouver, follow Georgia Street through Stanley Park and across the Lions Gate Bridge. Exit onto Marine Drive and turn left up Capilano Road. Drive 5 km (about 10–15 minutes uphill) until you reach the base of Grouse Mountain.

 

From the East:

Take the Ironworkers Memorial Second Narrows Bridge, follow Highway #1 west, and exit at Capilano Road North (Exit 14).

 

Public Transit:

Hop aboard the SeaBus at Waterfront Station and take it across to Lonsdale Quay. From there you can take the bus that goes straight to Grouse Mountain. Coming from Phibbs Exchange? Take bus #232. Transit is reliable, and the journey itself is a mini-tour.

 

Free Summer Shuttle:

If you’re visiting in the warmer months, enjoy a free shuttle from Canada Place with your Mountain Admission ticket—perfect for tourists exploring Vancouver without a car.

 

Parking Tip:

All base-level lots are pay-to-park. Use the Pay-By-Phone app for convenience or pay with card at the on-site machines. Rates are $8 for 3 hours, $10 for a full day, or $60 for an annual pass.

 

Best Time to Visit

For the best disc-slinging experience:

- June to September offers the most reliable weather.

- Mornings are cooler and less crowded.

- Weekdays are ideal if you want the course (almost) to yourself.

- After a light rain, the air is fresh, the mountain glows, and discs cut through the mist like magic.

 

Highlights & Features

 

Stunning Scenery:

Panoramic views of Vancouver, the Pacific, and endless alpine forest.

 

18 Holes of Variety:

 Front 9 for casual play; back 9 for the brave.

 

Multiple Par 4s:

Holes 7, 10, 12, 13, 14, and 18 offer longer throws and strategic play.

 

Directional Signage:

Easy-to-follow maps and signs ensure you stay on track.

 

Scorecards & Course Maps:

Available at the Outpost and Peak Office.

 

Family-Friendly:

Optional shorter tees make the course accessible to all ages.

 

Disc Golf Gear Available:

Buy a disc golf bag, disc golf set, or individual discs on-site.

 

Use of Spotters:

Recommended on some holes for visibility and safety.

 

Combine with Adventure:

After your round, ride the Skyride, visit the wildlife refuge, or enjoy a meal with a view.

 

Fun Facts

- The sport of disc golf has exploded globally. As of 2023, there are over 15,000 courses worldwide, but only a handful match the elevation and beauty of Grouse Mountain.

- Grouse’s course offers a rare alpine experience where elevation adds unexpected wind patterns—making each throw a mix of science, feel, and sometimes... luck.

- Vancouver locals consider the golf course one of the best things in the city.

- Looking for disc golf gifts? Outfitters stock quirky accessories, starter kits, and even the popular ZÜCA disc golf carts—part backpack, part off-road vehicle.

- The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) recognizes Grouse’s course as part of Canada’s elite disc golfing destinations.

 

A Quick Glimpse into Disc Golf’s History

Though disc golf traces its roots to casual games of catch in the 1960s, it’s grown into a full-fledged sport with pro circuits, rankings, and passionate communities worldwide. The game merges the strategy of golf with the accessibility of frisbee—and Grouse Mountain’s layout captures that blend perfectly, turning each hole into a mini adventure.

 

Conclusion

Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or introducing your kids to the joys of high-altitude play, disc golf at Grouse Mountain delivers more than just a game—it’s a story you’ll want to tell. So grab a disc, take a breath, and let it fly.