Tom and I originally wanted to spend Sunday kite boarding in Hood River, but less than ideal wind conditions had us resort to our back-up plan (courtesy of Aunt Judy). Silver Star Mountain has one of the best 360-degree summits close to Portland, with an exposed viewpoint of five major cascade volcanoes. The Grouse Vista Trailhead is located in Washington, just over an hour's drive northeast of town. Of the extensive trail network in the Silver Star Scenic Area, the Grouse Vista route from the south is slightly longer with more elevation gain than the northern approach, but the road to the trailhead is easier. This 6.8-mile out-and-back trek (gain 2,040') also has more diverse terrain and keeps most of the panoramic vistas from the summit under wraps until the final approach.
The hike can essentially be divided into three separate, one-mile stretches. The first leg climbs through a forested rocky section with no switchbacks.
The path eventually levels out and opens up to reveal views of Vancouver to the west and Larch Mountain to the south. The massive meadow is a colorful field of wildflowers this time of year. In the fall, it's filled with ripe huckleberries. The path follows the ridge line for the next mile, passing two unique geologic formations, Pyramid Rock and Sturgeon Rock.
The trail then dips back into the forest as it starts taking on elevation again. The final mile is very steep and rocky, and passes a few junctions including the approach from the north side. At last, the route suddenly opens up to a saddle with a dual-summit. Killer views extend to Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Hood. A clear day even affords a glimpse of Mt. Jefferson to the distant south.
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| Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Rainer, Mt. Adams |
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| Mt. Hood, Mt. Jefferson |
Tom and I hit the trail at 10am, returning by 1:30pm (3.5 hours RT). We lucked out with beautiful weather and minimal crowds. This hike is quick but strenuous and rocky, with a huge payoff at the end. Would repeat next year for the flowers!
Our new favorite place for fresh and unique flavors is the Hawthorne Asylum, a sprawling food cart pod with everything from vegan Egyptian to Southern-meets-South-African. I'm also a new fan of nearby Roof Deck Bar at Revolution Hall--a rarity on the east side. Across the street, West Coast Grocery Co. (#27) has an interesting history and a great food and drink menu.
Our new favorite place for fresh and unique flavors is the Hawthorne Asylum, a sprawling food cart pod with everything from vegan Egyptian to Southern-meets-South-African. I'm also a new fan of nearby Roof Deck Bar at Revolution Hall--a rarity on the east side. Across the street, West Coast Grocery Co. (#27) has an interesting history and a great food and drink menu.
