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

Happy National Trails Day!!! Silver Star Mountain is one of my favorites, with a wildflower-filled ridge walk to a summit with big views!  The first portion of the trail is up an abandoned road bed with loose rocks of varying sizes, hiking poles recommended.  This will be a medium-paced hike.  It is uphill and you'll get your heart rate up, but we'll be in no big hurry. The Grouse Vista trailhead is accessible to normal vehicles.  You need a Washington State Parks Discovery Pass to park here, they do ticket.  There is not a kiosk to purchase the pass at the trailhead. Carpooling is encouraged.  Passengers should reimburse their driver for gas, recommended contribution $7-10.
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
FIND AN UPCOMING ACTIVITY ON THE Calendar