Hike Silver Star Mountain via Grouse Vista

The Grouse Vista Trailhead is located through the town of Washougal off of highway 14 just past Camas. Once you leave the city, the road will turn to gravel and dirt though it is fairly well maintained until snow arrive and accessible by most cars so long as you're willing to get drive over loose rocks and dirt (moderate clearance makes for a much more enjoyable ride). Map apps can navigate to the trailhead by name.

From the trailhead (sign post only, there are no facilities), head North (right) to immediately start climbing up and into the mountain. The initial stretch of the trail is steep but soon eases back as you leave the forest and traverse across the hills with clear views of Pyramid Rock in front & to the right with Southern Washington's foothills below you & to the left (stay to the left / follow the hillside at the the first trail fork).

After passing directly under Pyramid Rock, the trail picks back up in steepness as it makes its way behind the mountain until it again breaks free from the forest along another hillside ridge. In winter this can be a fairly narrow snow crossing while in spring the slope is alive with flowers.

Continue on the trail back into the forest for the third and steepest of the climbing section again staying to the left as you pass the Indian Pit Trail fork (marked). After just a few more minutes of walking, you will meet up with the main trails from the Northside, turn right at the fork (there's usually a large stone pile marking the junction but just keep heading uphill if you're uncertain) and hike the final stretch.

For overnight adventurers, as you near the summit, you'll pass a few common camping areas to your left before emerging out of the trees at the top.

There are two summit points on Silver Star, the one to your left has a concrete platform left from an old tower which makes for a good lunch spot while the one to the right has a closer view of Mount Hood and some great rock structure to explore below.

Plan for a 2-4 hour outing with food, water and essentials to match. There is no cell signal, water or other services at or around the trailhead or on the hike.

A Washington State Discover Pass is required to park at the trailhead. This is not the same as a NW Forest Pass Permit and is not covered by National Park Passes.

In winter expect significant snow along the trail and a completely covered summit. Snowshoes and traction devices are often ideal.

Find details for the North Route / Ed's Trail.