Grouse Mountain is for sale

One of B.C.'s most popular ski resortsis going on the market.

After four decades of being owned by the same family, Grouse Mountain Resorts has announced it isselling its operations and 485 hectaresof property.

"This recent decision will ensure that Grouse Mountain continues to build on its strong heritage and further cultivate the Grouse Mountain brand and opportunities," the company said in a statement.

The popular mountain, which has 1.3 million visitors annually,has 26 runs and four chairlifts, along with summer attractions that include a disc golf course and open-air gondola.

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The land owned byGrouse Mountain Resortsdoes not include "The Grouse Grind,"the popular and punishing hike that leads up to the mountain.

Locally owned for decades

Grouse Mountain has been overseen by the Vancouver-based McLaughlin family since 1974, and the family purchased total control of the company in 1989.

The president of theGrouse Mountain Tyee Ski Clubhas nothing but good things to say about their stewardship.

"I can't say enough about our relationship with the mountain. I think it's unique in the amount of support we give the hill, and they give us back. There's a lot of support there," said Chris Pretty.

Last month, Whistler Blackcomb was bought by Colorado-basedVail Resorts for $1.4 billion. Pretty is hopeful that Grouse continues to be locally owned.

"If we can find a new owner that supports us as much as they have, we'll be in good shape," he said.

Julia Grant,spokesperson for the resort, says guests shouldn't worry about any changes in the short term.

"For the upcoming season, it's business as usual and our passholders," she said.

"If they'vealready bought a pass or are considering buying one, they can have confidence we'll be delivering them a great winter product as usual."