Bluff Mountain Trail

Bluff Mountain Trail (#172) in Gifford Pinchot National Forest is a long-distance hiking route that follows the ridge in the Silver Star area, running east from Silver Star Mountain territory and intersecting Starway Trail shortly after leaving the main approach corridor.

Expect an exposed ridgeline outing above reforestation terrain left by the Yacolt Burn (1902). The route alternates open, rocky slopes with forested sections that grew back after repeated fires, with replanting and terracing work visible along parts of the trail.

Roughly the first half of the hike is tied to ridge travel, then the trail drops down near Little Baldy Mountain and turns back north to set up the final climb along an old roadbed to Road 41 and the Bluff Mountain Trailhead.

On the open parts of the route, Portland/Vancouver metro area views are a recurring reward, with additional sightlines toward nearby volcanoes when visibility is clear.

Spring-to-summer snow can linger on north-facing slopes; mid-May melt is typical for lower routes, and higher parts often melt out by mid-July. Carry mosquito repellent, and plan for backcountry creeks/streams that may dry up seasonally; water is not listed as available on the trail.

Trail #172 is crossed by multiple Chinook Trail System routes in this area, including Starway Trail (#175) and the Silver Star Mountain summit access trail (#180D) immediately beyond the Bluff Mountain Trail segment.

Getting to the Bluff Mountain Trailhead involves Forest Road 41: it’s reached by crossing the East Fork Lewis River and driving approximately 9 miles on FR 41 to the parking area atop McKinley Ridge; a Northwest Forest Pass/Discover Pass requirement is associated with parking at the trailhead area.

For vehicle planning, the approach roads can be rough, and high-clearance vehicles are recommended for the upper access drive.

More information: Visitor information, Visitor information, Silver Star Mountain via Bluff Mountain Hike - Oregon Hikers