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

Snow-capped volcanoes, waterfalls, peak wildflowers, and even an arch on a predicted sunny day! Starting from the Grouse Vista trailhead, we will take the Tarbell, Sturgeon Rock, and Ed's Trails to reach the top of Silver Star Mountain. and then we will descend via the standard route for a clockwise loop. The stats are 10.5 miles and 2,100', and hikers must be able to make a couple scramble moves with good footholds. Parts of these trails are steep and most are free of shade; trekking poles and sun protection are highly recommended.

This Grouse Vista trailhead is accessible by most vehicles and incredibly popular, hence the early start. Plan to leave Portland no later than 04:45. A Washington Discover Pass is required to park. I am not yet organizing carpools, but I am willing to provide rides to fully vaccinated hikers upon request.

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
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