An incredible hike I'd been meaning to try for some time. The drive up (FR 4109) was an adventure, a very bumpy and rocky road with numerous potholes that may give low-clearance vehicles a challenge. Right from the start, the fall foliage was spectacular - the vine maples along the trail were a riot of colors, reds and oranges and yellows. Unfortunately, I picked a very windy day. East winds were gusting 30-40 mph most of the hike, and on the exposed ridgeline that makes up much of Ed's Trail, that made for some discomfort. I had a hooded sweatshirt cinched tightly, which helped. The air temperature was no warmer than 50. On the plus side, this meant very few people hiking - I encountered maybe half a dozen total the entire trip. The trail itself was in fine condition, though the switchbacks just past the natural rock arch were muddy and required some careful climbing. The panoramic view was spectacular despite the presence of some high- and mid-level clouds that obscured several of the peaks. Mount Hood was visible and brilliant.

We accessed Trail 180F from the Grouse Vista trailhead.

This is my first time up to Silver Star, a popular hike in these parts. I was to learn just how popular a bit later. It's a steep uphill to start, with enough branches sticking into the trail to be a minor annoyance. The difficulty lay in the rocks and large gravel covering much of the trail. You'll want stiff soled shoes or boots for this hike, along with a pair of hiking poles for the way down.

After hiking for nearly a mile in the trees, we broke out to magnificent views and a fantastic wildflower bloom. After alternating between trees and exposed trail, we made it to the top. St. Helens, Rainier, Adams, Hood and Jefferson were all in view. Unfortunately, there was too much haze for my photos of Jefferson to turn out. The other peaks were visible, but I've had better pictures. Nonetheless, the view was stunning. The crowd was as well. There were as many as two dozen persons on the peak while I was up there. The tourists who were yelling in an attempt to imitate a cough drop ad didn't improve the environment.

But there was lots of bear grass and other plants in bloom. Plenty of different butterflies as well along the trail. I'll have to return soon during the bloom, but on a weekday instead.

The beargrass bloom is exceptional this year on Silver Star. I do this hike every year around the first of July because of the outstanding wildflower displays. Some years, paintbrush steals the show. This year it is beargrass.

The weather yesterday was incredible: temperature in the 70s with a light breeze and views of all the big volcanoes from Rainier to Jefferson. We went up Ed's Trail and returned on Silver Star Trail, with lunch at the former lookout site on the summit. I counted about 40 species of wildflowers in bloom, with more species still in bud.

The start of the trail at the end of Road 4109 needs some brushing and Ed's Trail some sketchy tread in places, but overall the trails are in good condition. The Silver Star Trail, formerly a road, is restoring itself nicely now that ATV access has been blocked by large boulders around the trailhead parking area.

I do recommend using the driving approach via Dole Valley Road and DNR Road L-1100 to the intersection with Forest Road 4109 rather than driving to Sunset Falls and taking Forest Road 41. The mudholes on Road 41 are big enough to swallow a passenger car while DNR is actively maintaining Road L-1100 (it was being graded yesterday when we went up).

Road 4109 has numerous drain dips beyond the intersection with Road L-1100 so high clearance vehicles (Subaru Forester/Outback or higher) are recommended.

Despite the rough roads, I estimate there were 100 people hiking on the mountain yesterday, including two large organized groups, so don't expect solitude if you go.
  

This is a gorgeous hike in the South Cascades (GPNF) near the Lewis River. It's a long drive to the trailhead and the road is rough in places but, not too bad in my opinion - at least not with a 4WD.

The trail is in great shape (though quite rocky) and the wildflowers are abundant! No snow - aside from a few small patches that the dogs enjoyed playing in...

It was very cloudy/foggy at first with a couple of minor showers. But, the skies cleared up nicely and the views were amazing! I can only imagine what it would be like on a clear day!! I'll go back for sure...

Silver Star Mt. "North Loop" via trail #180 and "Ed's Trail" #180A is 5.2 miles RT with 1400' of elevation gain. There are a couple of short, steep sections - one where you need to use your hands - and help the dogs down. Nothing major though.