Surprisingly nice hike in the middle of nowhere Coquitlam. Had no idea this existed until recently. Basically it's the Coquitlam version of the Grouse Grind, but much tamer. 2.92km horizontal, 242m vertical according to the website PDF. The website says 2.2km for some reason - I think they're measuring from the Lansdowne parking lot. From Runnel Drive, it's basically 1/3 the vertical of the Grind, but a longer walk overall.
Parking is available in several lots along the length of the path. For the full experience, park at the bottom of the valley (Runnel Drive). There are also parking lots accessible from Lansdowne and Panorama (major streets farther up the mountain), if one wants a shorter version.
The path basically follows a set of BC Hydro power lines up the mountain. There are warning signs about potential electric shocks, though I imagine this probably only applies during wet weather.
The path itself is divided into several sections. The "crunch" section" is technically the 3rd section of 6 (N side of Lansdowne), where there are 2 sets of stairs (some 500 steps) going up what is arguably the steepest section. Guessing they built 2 sets of stairs to facilitate 2 way traffic. I was told the proper travelling convention is counterclockwise. In other words, take the stairs on the "right" side. The stairs are pretty well built, with wire mesh nailed into the steps to prevent slipping. There are mini signs of encouragement along the way. I got a kick out of these. My only complaint is that the step tread (horizontal "depth") is a bit too wide. As in I couldn't decide whether to go up 1 or 2 steps at a time. This really threw off my pace.
After the stairs section, the rest of the Crunch is actually a nice gentle uphill path. There are some more stairs here and there, but nothing too crazy (up to 20 steps at a time). The end of the Crunch is at Eagle Mountain Drive, where there's a 2.25km trail marker. To be honest, they really need to mark the end better. The trail actually continues further up the mountain, and I only knew this was the point to turn around because someone in the group had done it before.
After walking all the way up, take a break, and enjoy the walk back down. Great time to take some photos, and look at the Runnel Drive parking lot way at the bottom of the valley. There is a lookout point partially down the length of the stairs section (accessible on the "downhill" steps).
To be honest, this is a great alternative to the Grouse Grind. I was actually quite impressed. Nice views, no gondola fee, no seasonal limitations, way fewer people, and non overpriced restaurants nearby. What more can one ask for? read more