Silver Star Mountain via Chinook Trail

Starting your adventure near Skamania County, Washington, the Silver Star Mountain via Chinook Trail offers a rewarding out-and-back journey of approximately 20 km (12.4 miles) with an elevation gain of around 900 meters (2,950 feet). This medium-difficulty trail is perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards the nearest significant landmark, the town of Yacolt, Washington. From Yacolt, follow NE Sunset Falls Road and then turn onto Dole Valley Road. Continue until you reach the trailhead parking area. For those using public transport, the nearest major city is Vancouver, Washington. From Vancouver, you can take a bus to Yacolt and then arrange for a local taxi or rideshare to the trailhead.

Trail Overview The trail begins with a gradual ascent through dense forest, offering a cool and shaded start to your hike. As you progress, the trail becomes steeper, and the forest gives way to more open terrain. Around the 3 km (1.9 miles) mark, you'll encounter the first significant viewpoint, providing stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys and distant peaks.

Key Landmarks and Points of Interest - **Grouse Vista Trail Junction (4 km / 2.5 miles):** This junction offers an optional detour to the Grouse Vista viewpoint, adding an extra 1 km (0.6 miles) to your hike. The viewpoint is worth the detour for its panoramic views. - **Wildflower Meadows (6 km / 3.7 miles):** As you continue, you'll pass through expansive meadows filled with wildflowers, especially vibrant in late spring and early summer. Keep an eye out for lupines, Indian paintbrush, and beargrass. - **Rock Arch (8 km / 5 miles):** One of the trail's unique features is a natural rock arch. This geological formation is a great spot for photos and a brief rest. - **Summit of Silver Star Mountain (10 km / 6.2 miles):** The final push to the summit is steep but rewarding. At the top, you'll be greeted with 360-degree views, including Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Hood on clear days.

Flora and Fauna The trail is rich in biodiversity. In the lower forested sections, you'll find Douglas fir, western hemlock, and red cedar. As you ascend, the vegetation transitions to subalpine species. Wildlife is abundant, with chances to spot deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species, including the elusive northern spotted owl.

Historical Significance The region around Silver Star Mountain has a rich history. It was named after the silver mining activities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Chinook Trail itself is part of a larger network of trails that were used by Native American tribes for trade and travel long before European settlers arrived.

Navigation and Safety Given the trail's moderate difficulty, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but weather conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Always carry a map, compass, and sufficient water.

Final Stretch After enjoying the summit, retrace your steps back to the trailhead. The descent offers a different perspective of the landscape, and the changing light can make familiar scenes appear new and captivating.