Silver Star Mountain via Grouse Vista Trail 180F
Overview
Silver Star Mountain via Grouse Vista Trail
Explore this 6.3-mile out-and-back trail near Washougal, Washington. This route is rated as challenging, with a steady climb that takes an average of 4 hours to complete. Popular with hikers, trail runners, and snowshoers, you can expect to share the path with others. The trail is open year-round and offers scenic beauty in all seasons. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a leash.
Getting There
The Grouse Vista Trailhead is located on the south side of Silver Star Mountain, just outside of Washougal, WA—about an hour’s drive from Portland, Oregon. Access involves a seven-mile unpaved road, which can be especially rough or impassable in winter. High-clearance vehicles are recommended in poor conditions.
Trail Overview
Start your hike by taking the trail opposite the welcome sign. Even in early summer, expect to encounter patches of snow—microspikes and trekking poles are highly recommended for safety and traction.
This route climbs steeply with significant elevation gain, offering a more rugged alternative to the more commonly used trail from the north. While it's considered the “moderate” southern approach, it still gains more elevation than the standard route, rewarding hikers with sweeping 360-degree views of nearly every major Cascade peak from the summit.
At just over 4,000 feet, Silver Star Mountain offers some of the best panoramic views in Southern Washington—rivaled only by the summit of Larch Mountain across the river.
Be careful bringing dogs as the trail is VERY rocky with sharp corners that could hurt dog paws.
Trail Highlights
Pass beneath and behind Pyramid Rock, a unique volcanic formation.
Slightly longer and more strenuous than the main route, this path sees fewer crowds but still offers plenty of breathtaking scenery.
Wildflowers, ridgeline views, and open meadows make this a favorite in late spring and summer.
Getting Started
This trail is inaccessible for a good chunk of the year due to the snow. During the warmer months, the road is in pretty good shape. This trailhead is the most accessible from Portland, OR. There is plenty of parking and a bathroom at the trailhead.
Taking Children
This hike is moderate when the temperatures are moderate, but it quickly becomes difficult when the heat picks up. It is not advisable to bring children during the hot months.
Sights to See
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
Public Tracks
stars
stars
