Bluff Mountain Trail #172 begins in a saddle at the eastern trailhead and travels seven miles to just below the summit of Silver Star Mountain. The first part of the trail drops down on an old forest road with outstanding views of Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood, and Mt. St. Helens.. After 2.25 miles, the trail drops off the old road on the right then descends to a small saddle before ascending across the slopes of Bluff Mountain, passing below rocky cliffs.

The trail meanders through a fir forest and emerges at Little Baldy. Here are offered majestic views of the Columbia River and wildflower-filled ridges. There are rocky pinnacles remaining from when trail was blasted through rock. The 6.7 mile trail can also be hiked from the western end, ascending to Silver Star from Forest Service Road 4109 then hiking on the Bluff Mountain Trail.