The Grouse Grind is a local's favorite hike in Vancouver. On any summer weekend, its paths are always packed. But on this particular morning, an over-stuffed me was not enjoying the scenic route. Although the Grind is only 3kms in length, don't underestimate its difficulty with a 800m elevation. Even if it only takes1 hour to reach the summit, it's as if you are on the stair master with the resistance turned all the way up for the entire hour.

Lucky for me, I had some great hiking companions. Alex even brought a compass and binoculars for the hike. Although I was not allowed to challenge him on why he thought we would ever need directions on a well-marked trail.

One of my favorite pass times in Vancouver is to enjoy the city's numerous trails. I started off easy with a 2 hour hike to Quarry Rock lookout in Deep Cove. This North Vancouver trail is roughly 3.8km long and only 100 meters in elevation. It also provides a scenic view of the Deep Cove. I sat there for a long time just watching the boats go by.

I've been home in Vancouver for 1 week now and every day, I wake up to the natural beauty of the west coast in the glorious summer sun and can't imagine being anywhere else. I'm surrounded by nature and old friends; I couldn't be happier.