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Chapter 2

Southwest Washington

With countless streams, forested ridges, waterfalls, and rocky viewpoints, southwest Washington has all of the same attributes possessed by other favored hiking areas near Portland. Due to misguided state pride, however, hikers living south of the Columbia River rarely cross the bridge and explore the many scenic trails in the Evergreen State. Vancouver residents appreciate the solitude, but if you are one of those overly provincial Beaver Staters, it is time to take a look at what you’re missing.

Siouxon (pronounced soo-son) Creek features easy trails through a lovely old-growth forest in that rarest of local ecosystems, an unlogged low-elevation watershed. Without the erosion associated with logging, the stream is remarkably clear, splashing through gentle riffles, pausing in quiet eddies, dropping over scenic waterfalls, and sliding through slot canyons. All of this adds up to an enchanting hiking experience. Meanwhile the nearby ridges provide fine viewpoints and trails that challenge the most athletic hiker.

In the region around Three-Corner Rock, you’ll discover an attractive landscape of second-growth forests, view-packed ridges, stream canyons, lush vegetation, and little-known trails. The road access is rough and confusing, but once the driving difficulties are surmounted the scenery is something to savor.

Looking north from the northern ridge of Silver Star Mountain

For spectacular views and flowers, however, southwest Washington’s “star” attraction is undoubtedly Silver Star Mountain. Seen from Portland, Silver Star is that long ridge to the northeast that blocks the view of Mt. Adams. Once atop this mountain’s scenic ridges, however, there is nothing to block the breathtaking views, not only of Adams, but of pretty much every other landmark within 50 or more miles. In addition, the peak boasts acres of open meadows filled with subalpine wildflowers, numerous rock formations, and some interesting Native American history. A wonderful network of surprisingly little-traveled trails invite the wanderer, who will no doubt want to return again and again to enjoy everything this mountain has to offer.

Most of the public land in southwest Washington is administered by either the Yacolt State Forest or the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Be sure to obtain the most updated maps available from these agencies, so you can negotiate this region’s often poorly marked roads with greater safety and confidence.