Starway Trail

Starway Trail is used by hikers as an alternate access to hikes like Silver Star and Bluff Mountain or as a workout on its own. If you’re only hiking this trail and not continuing on elsewhere, we recommend stopping at the high point of the hike and turning around from there. The rest of the trail doesn’t offer as much in terms of views and increases the work you’ll have to do to return.

This hike is subject to bear and cougar activity, possibly more so than others in the region. Hike with bear spray and try to travel in a group if you can.

Beginning from the forest road, hike along Copper Creek. Cross the creek and take a sharp right at the second junction. The ascent up to the ridge is no joke, and poles will be helpful for this section. Climb steeply up, cresting the ridge and enjoying a more relaxed trail. Look for Mount Saint Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Hood as you traverse the ridgeline.

If you’re here for the views and don’t want to punish your knees as much, turn back and retrace your steps from the high point of the ridge. If you want to complete the ensure trail, drop down the south end of the ridge and then turn back where the trail intersects with Bluff Mountain Trail.