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
Moderate hike up Silver Star mountain with great alpine wildflowers and expansive mountain views. This high point is just north of Washougal, Washington.
We will start from Grouse Vista trailhead (a Washington Discovery Pass is needed here). This route avoids the terrible road on the northern approach to the mountain. The trail follows an old and rocky road for part of the way, then does a long traverse to reach the higher terrain. Trekking poles are recommended.
Here is a description: https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Silver_Star_Mountain_via_Grouse_Vista_Hike
About 8 miles and 2200 feet gain. We will meet at the MMC at 9AM and carpool (for those vaccinated). Hike should take around 5 hours. It is about a 35 mile (and 1 hour) drive from the MMC .
| 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 |
