Grouse Grind gets an app

Yep, it was inevitable—the Grouse Grind now has an app. (And if you confuse it with the gay hookup app Grindr, you could be doing a whole different type of exericse.)

Fans of Mother Nature's Stairmaster can download the app from iTunes. (Sorry, Androiders, it's currently only available for iPhones).

The app allows users to:

• record your time

• track your progress on the trail

• compare your progress to your best performance, and win badges

• indulge in your competitive streak with your social network on Facebook and Twitter

• check weather reports, and more

Grouse Mountain itself also has an iPhone app that was released last year. 

That app includes maps, a run tracker, park and trail status, information about zip lining to eco walks, weather forecasts, and more.

Besides, it's a good idea to take along your cell anyhow in case of emergency. In 2013, Outside magazine named the Grind as one of the world's top 10 most dangerous hikes.

Here are some tips on how to make things less dangerous (or at least less torturous) for all involved.