We took the gondola up Grouse Mountain and walked towards the Grizzly Bear enclosure and towards the ski run. If you've done the Snowshoe Grind in the winter, you will recognize this section of the trail. We passed the signage board, completed our hiking form and continued on our way along the gravel trail. The gravel trail will turn to your left and you simply follow the trail making your way uphill. We found the trail to be pretty straight forward. You want to ensure you stay on the Alpine Trail. If you get to the zipline platform, you know you are on the right trail.
The Alpine Trail will pass a few junctions - Thunderbird Ridge, Dam Mountain and Little Goat Mountain. Continue along the Alpine trail until you come across a trail marker that states Hanes Valley Route. It clearly states the trail is challenging and I would agree with this. If you descend and go left this will take you to Crown Mountain. You want to go to your right. The trail is relatively flat at this point but will quickly change. You will arrive at a steep section where you will have ropes and chains to help you with the hike up and over large tree roots and rocks. It was muddy and a bit slick so he rope/chain was handy. Once you get passed this section continue to your right along the trail. You will come across a sign indicating Goat Ridge is off to the right. Continue to make your way up the steep section and you have arrived.
Unfortunately we did not have a clear view as the clouds came in but it was still worth the hike. We rested at the top, had our lunch and made our way back to the Grouse Mountain Gondola the same way.