Silver Star Mountain (Skamania County, Washington)

Silver Star Mountain
Summit of Silver Star with Mount St. Helens in the background
Highest point
Elevation4,364 ft (1,330 m) NAVD 88
Coordinates45°44′51.8″N 122°14′20.5″W / 45.747722°N 122.239028°W / 45.747722; -122.239028
Geography
LocationSkamania County, Washington, U.S.
Parent rangeCascade Range
Topo mapUSGS Bobs Mountain
Geology
Volcanic arcCascade Volcanic Arc

Silver Star Mountain is a recently uplifted ridge of older Western Cascades volcanic rock, underlain by a granitic pluton of similar Western Cascades age, located in the Cascade Range in the U.S. state of Washington. (contrary to local legend, the mountain is not an "extinct volcano," but rather the uplifted debris and roots of a number of very old volcanic vents) Consisting of late Eocene to Oligocene epoch rock, it lies within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Silver Star is composed of three lithologic units (distinct units of rock, each with different physical characteristics), including the large Silver Star Granodiorite unit.

Silver Star Mountain and the surrounding area, in contrast to the rest of the local backcountry, has a ridge-like appearance, creating a striking skyline similar to mountains further north in the Cascade Range. The area lacks trees, and comprises steep cliffs, talus slopes, and meadows filled with wildflowers. The mountain can be hiked and has been noted for its trails by local mountaineers.