We started at a different place than the coordinates listed on the Bluff Mtn trail page has, if you google "Bluff Mountain Trailhead," there is a large parking lot where NF-41, NF-4104, and NF-502 meet, but it's got large potholes that only really high clearance vehicles can manage. NF-4109 is in terrible shape, but if you get past that, you'll be fine! 

After a three-mile trek on NF-502, the single-track hike begins. Some vehicles have chosen to drive up to that point. The trail was clear the whole way, and the exposed views were stunning. There are a couple of points where moving from loose rock to forest felt like we were on a completely different hike. We went up to the South peak of Silver Star. The elevation gain isn't very much, and we put in a total of 15.5 miles and over the course of the whole adventure we saw signs of coyotes, hummingbirds, mountain goats, and a snake. While the drive was slow and bumpy, we did see a bear, a hare, and elk.

I think this was the perfect time of year to do this trail as the little patches of snow were easily passable, and it wasn't too hot despite all the exposed time in the sun.

Forest Rd 41 leading from Sunset Falls Campground to Bluff Mtn Trailhead is very potholed, more so in the first 5 miles. Many times there is just no way around but through. I found it doable (very slowly) with my Mazda CX5 GT with 19" wheels.  Having clearance is crucial, so don't try this in a Sedan.  Hike was beautiful. Pick a clear day for views, well worth it. Lost the trail for a bit about 1.5 miles where jeep road ended in a round area with rocks/fire pit where I didn't see the trail and went straight by mistake. Trail shoots off to the right at end of circle and is not clearly visible. Backtracked and realized the error. Trail was easy to follow afterwards. It was chilly even in sun,  some frozen puddles, and even an icicle hanging off a rock as late as 3pm. This trail is part of the Chinook Trail.

This is one of my favorite trails to do with my 5 year old. There aren't many ridgeline hikes in the area with not a lot of elevation gain and a wide enough trail to keep kiddos away from the trail. There was a truck driving on the trail (aka old road bed), so its always good to keep any eye out. But no other people. Saw some berry-filled coyote scat. Huckleberries were ripe, yet there was still salmonberry and thimbleberry available for snacking. Butterflies were every where and the flowers, while past peak, were still lovely.

Visited 7/1/19 bluff mountain road walk 3.6 miles, 284ft elevation gain 1.24hrs total time. Came here to scout out the entrance by larch correctional area. After reading other reviews. The road is definitely sketch for say a stock Honda crv, but may be doable. Would not recommend for sedans. The road going torwards the gorge was in much better condition but can be overgrown with shrubbery in areas and potholes. Did a short hike on the road with my dad, but did not get to the single track as t-storms were in the forecast that day. There are no bathrooms here and no trail kiosk.

Hiked the Bluff Mountain trail to the Silver Star summit and back.  This trail is exceptional.  The entire trail has sweeping views of gorgeous wilderness terrain from start to finish.  I highly recommend this trail. 

My half ton 4x4 made it to the starting point without any issues. Some tight trees make it impossible to get to the trail head, would need some significant trimming.  I bet we walked 3/4 of a mile each way on the road to make it to the trail head.

Overall Stats:

10.56 miles

1,912 ft vertical gain

5 hours and 50 minutes (total time) / Moving time 5 hours.

There was no significant snow on the trail until about 1/4 mile from the summit. Easy to pass. Enough though that I was glad I had hiking boots and not trail runners.