B.C. great-grandfather, 85, hikes Grouse Grind for first time

Gary Rombough, 85, conquered the challenging Grouse Grind trail on June 8, 2025.

Sunday marked a big accomplishment for an 85-year-old Langley, B.C., man who climbed the grueling Grouse Grind trail for the first time ever.

Gary Rombough set his sights on the mountain challenge and started training almost a year ago.

On Sunday, the great-grandfather, aided by a group of supporters, hiked 800 metres to the top. He reached the trail’s end in two hours and 38 minutes.

“I feel really good. I’m satisfied, I’m happy,” the senior said. “I actually did it.”

Rombough said he took up the challenge because he wants to stay healthy at every age.

He said he couldn’t have done it without all the support, including that of his trainer.