Tarbell, Grouse Vista Trail , Silver Star Mountain

This hike was a workout from the get go! However, it was well worth the effort as I was able to view Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, and Mt. Hood! Views are visible from the top of Silver Star Mountain. As I made my way up, I saw Grouse Vista, Pyramid Rock, Sturgeon Rock, and Kloochman Butte. Wildflowers were in bloom everywhere I looked, it was beautiful! I took a side trip up to Grouse Vista and scrambled to the top, sat down and ate lunch before heading on to Silver Star Mountain. On the way up, I had the trail pretty much to myself! On the way down, I visited with several hikers on their way up. The next time I go to Silver Star, I will hike Ed's Trail. Also saw several snakes on the trail. All in all, it was an epic hike even though the clouds started to roll in as I crested Silver Star Mountain. I would only recommend this route for hikers in good shape.
There were a few issues with the trail such as a couple of blowdowns and some snow around the 4000 ft. level. Also saw a couple of areas where there was water on the trail. All those issues were minor and I had no problems hiking around them. The main problem that I saw with this route was the huge rocks in the trail most of the way up. It made it even more difficult on the way down, so please be advised of your footing.
Bottomline, anyway you hike up to Silver Star Mountain is well worth the effort! The views are incredible!