There is something deeply satisfying about scrolling through AllTrails one evening and landing on something that looks worth the drive. That’s exactly how the 79 Grind in Mission, BC ended up on our list, and it did not disappoint.
If you’ve done the Grouse Grind, you already have a sense of what this trail delivers — a steep, unrelenting climb that tests your legs and your resolve. But where the Grouse Grind can feel like a lineup on a busy weekend, the 79 Grind offers something the North Shore’s most famous stairmaster rarely does: quiet. Actual, proper quiet, with old-growth forest to yourself and the kind of remote feel that makes the effort mean something more.
This post covers everything you need to know about hiking the 79 Grind for the first time, including the Fiddlehead Falls detour, what to expect on the climb, and a few things worth knowing before you go.
79 Grind Trail Summary
Length: 5.5 + 1 km for detour to falls
Elevation: 575 m
Type: out and back
Time: 2.5 – 3.5 hours
Best time of year: Year-round, but best in shoulder seasons (spring and fall); can be muddy after rain and icy in winter
Skip if you’re looking for: A leisurely stroll or panoramic views the whole way up — it’s steep, rooty, and almost entirely forested until the top
Good to know: The access road (Florence Lake FSR) has significant potholes but is manageable in a 2WD — take it slow; parking is on the right just past the trailhead at kilometer marker 6.5
The 79 Grind Trail
The start of the trail offers the perfect taste of what this hike has in store for you! The trail begins with a staircase leading into a boulder scramble. If you struggle with this, I would gently suggest you don’t continue, because the rest of the trail is up and equally challenging.
What to Expect
Once past the boulders, the rest of the trail is a mix of soft soil, moss, rocks and exposed roots. Lots of exposed roots! The trial is mostly shaded by the old-growth forest, which keeps it cooler, especially if you are choosing to hike midday in the summer. Alternatively, it could be muddy or icy in the wetter months.
For the first bit, you catch glimpses of a creek below and perhaps hear the roar of Fiddlehead Falls. There is a detour route to see the falls. We saved this for our return route so I’ve mentioned it later in the post, but you could detour on your way up.
The trail is marked with colourful ribbons along the way. There are some sections we got a little turned around where trees have fallen or there have been small slides/erosion. But a quick scan around and it was easy to see the ribbons and pick up the trail. Our dog is also overly confident that he knows the way, so sometimes we just follow him, not always to the best results.
As you continue up, enjoy dramatic rocky outcrops, ferns everywhere, fungi on the trees, the smell of BC forest and the peaceful sound of birds and nature. We only passed 2 other groups of people. Note: you should be conscious of bears in the area. Our dog has a bell on his collar to alert to our presence. We don’t carry bear spray, but you could.
Along the way you will cross logging roads a few times – just make sure to look out for any vehicles.
The Lookout
When you arrive at a logging road near the top, as the trees thin out, turn left – this will take you to the viewing platform. To the right, just follows the road and eventually nothing.
The viewing platform overlooks Stave Lake, Devil’s Lake, Mount Baker and more peaks (that I don’t know). I am still getting to know the Fraser Valley mountains. But whether it’s the Fraser Valley or North Shore, I am lucky to live in such a stunning place. The wooden platform is a beautiful spot for a snack, picnic, or beer. There is an outhouse nearby as well.
Once you’ve savoured your views, head back the way you came. The going should be a little easier downhill, but be mindful of any slippery sections.
Fiddlehead Falls Side Quest
As I mentioned, we saved the falls for last. The side trail is well marked. It was a steep embankment to traverse down, so go slowly.
Fiddlehead Falls is a beautiful cascading waterfall, tucked away in the trees, flowing into a crystal clear creek. We stopped for a few minutes, perched atop a boulder in the creek, took off our shoes, soaking our feet in the cool water. It was so refreshing after the hike.
Final Thoughts
The 79 Grind is a grind. But worth it for the peace, nature and the views. Sometimes you don’t have all day to dedicate to a hike. If you are looking for more to fill your day, follow the Forestry Service Road further north towards Rocky Point for recreation sites on Stave Lake or to Sayres Lake.
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