The Grouse Grind – Poem by Harvey Nelsen

There was a big positive response to the article I posted about Harvey Nelsen recently, so I wanted to share one more thing which was too long to fit into the original interview. A poem Harvey wrote about the Grouse Grind back in 1999.

The Grouse Grind
The grind winds its way up Grouse Mountain
For all it is a drain on youth’s fountain
It offers an extreme challenge to woman and man
However, it is a lot healthier than the beach and a tan.
At the bottom of the grind stands a steel gate
Those who pass through can expect to suffer the same fate
Each person who takes the exercise time
Can expect dividends worth a lot more than a dime.
The trail snakes its way through tall Douglas Fir
The crown jewel of the forest with not but a stir
Many stones, roots and steps are found along the way
For this is the place nature has made for us to play.
Up, up and away we trek for nearly two miles
It is the stimulating exercise that brings on the smiles
Each and every step may be taking their toll
But it is the foot that offers the sprint along with the sole.
To the trail many people do flock
Hippity, hopping over steps and rock
To some who choose to break the sound barrier
It can only bring disaster and the paramedic’s carrier.
The long line of trekkers do stream all the way up
But the rules prevent them from bringing their cuddly pup
For it can be both a hazard and much pain
When we trip over the fur-ball and suffer a sprain.
Each step takes us closer to the summit
And if our pace is too slow our ego will plummet
However, those who happily complete the hike
They can proudly boast, “We did it without a bug bite”!!
– Harvey Nelsen
October 3, 1999