Sixteen years ago we placed a portion of my father’s ashes on Silver Star’s summit.
The 4,390-foot summit of Silver Star Mountain is easily visible from much of the Portland and Vancouver area.
In late May my nephew and I returned to the summit. This time we brought portions of the ashes of my mother and his sister. Both had passed away late last year.
Before spreading their ashes we reflected on, and honored, the two very special people in our lives.
They will enjoy the location.
The views are open and far-reaching on a clear day, including the snow-covered summits of the high Cascade volcanoes.
Deer are often nearby, as are black bears when the huckleberries ripen in the autumn. Less than one mile away are Indian pits used for religious ceremonies in the long past.
I imagine at times the spirits of the Indians and my father sitting around an open campfire telling wild and wooly stories about hunting and other adventures. Now my mother and niece will join them. And, one of these days, so will I.
Even though I miss them, they are always close by in my heart.

Nephew Jason just below the summit of Silver Star Mtn

Your Humble Scribe

Paintbrush

Nephew Jason

Mt. Rainier from the summit of Silver Star Mtn

Avalanche Lily

Three to four feet of snow on the trail in places

Windflower

Yes, that’s the trail

The trail heading down to the trailhead
Very thoughtful John, and great pics. Going up there on the 20th with Friends.
Thanks Geoff. By the 20th the snow should be pretty much gone, and the beargrass will be in bloom.
A beautiful spot! All good wishes to you and yours.
Thanks much. It’s truly appreciated.
Lovely place for my very much love aunt and her lovely grandchild.
Thanks Hallie. It is a wonderful location.
I can’t thank you enough for this wonderful post and the memorable hike that I will always cherish.
Thanks Jason. Like you, I’ll remember it always.
John, My love and prayers are with you always. Ed
On Sun, Jun 4, 2017 at 9:31 AM, John Carr Outdoors wrote:
> John Carr posted: “Sixteen years ago we placed a portion of my father’s > ashes on Silver Star’s summit. The 4,390-foot summit of Silver Star > Mountain is easily visible from much of the Portland and Vancouver area. In > late May my nephew and I returned to the summit. Thi” >
Thanks Ed.