Mazamas — For the Love of Mountains
Information obtained from Oregon Hikers (https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Silver_Star_Mountain_via_Grouse_Vista_Hike)
Silver Star Mountain is one of the best 360 degree summits within a day's drive of Portland, boasting a rocky, exposed viewpoint of five major cascade volcanoes. It is also a great wildflower area in the spring, and huckleberries abound in the fall.
The Grouse Vista Trail option, from the south, is a little longer and more elevation gain than Silver Star from the north, but the Grouse Vista Trail road is easier. The Bluff Mountain trail is somewhat longer. The Grouse Vista trail is also the option with the most diverse terrain—alternating between exposure and shade, passing by large geologic formations, and keeping most of panoramic views available from the Silver Star summit under wraps until the final approach. The hike can probably be divided in three sections: 1) Steep and forested, 2) Exposed and flat, then 3) Very steep and in-and-out of the trees. Each section is just about a mile long.
Activity Notes
Let's go enjoy Silver Star in June and get some great mountain views! This trail is moderately challenging at 6.8 miles and around 2000 feet of elevation gain. We'll tackle the steepest portion of the trail right at the beginning before things mellow out until the last push to the top of the trail.
Recent trail reports mention snow within the last mile of the trail. This could melt off with the heat over the next week but hikers should be prepared with hiking poles and microspikes in case those are needed.
After the hike, we will likely find some place in Vancouver for food and drinks for post-hike celebrations!
Hike: 6.7 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: ~2000 feet
Travel time from PDX: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Where to meet: Grouse Vista Trailhead
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Adventurous Young Mazamas (AYM) offers activities targeted to those in their 20s, 30s, and anyone young at heart. All activities are open everyone!
| Other Information | |
|---|---|
| Driving Distance from Portland | 70 miles |
| Driving Time from Portland | 1 hours |
| Distance - Round Trip | 6 miles |
| Expected Duration | Car to car in one day |
| Relevant Maps | CG-C |
| Awards Qualified | Awesome Ridges Award |
