How to Take the Hurricane Ridge Shuttle from Port Angeles

---

Getting to Hurricane Ridge means driving a winding mountain road. I’ve seen visitors circle the main lot when it’s full during peak season, especially on weekends. 

That’s where the Hurricane Ridge shuttle from Port Angeles comes in.

As a local, I like taking it because I can sleep in instead of rushing to the entrance station by 8am to get a parking spot. 

If you’re a first-time visitor worried about long entrance lines or parking, the shuttle is an excellent option.

You give up some flexibility compared to driving yourself, but the tradeoff may be worth it for the certainty of getting in without waiting or feeling stressed.

Here’s everything you need to know to decide if it’s right for you—who it’s best for, where it leaves from, and what the ride is like—to help you plan a trip to Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park.

Shuttle to Hurricane Ridge Quick Guide

Before my late morning ride up Hurricane Ridge Road, the friendly driver gave a short introduction and encouraged us to call out if we spotted wildlife. 

She also pointed out the barf bags in case the winding road was too much.

There were about 20 other people on board, including a few kids under 10, and everyone handled the ride well.

Here are the basics to know before riding the Olympic National Park shuttle:

• Departure point: Port Angeles Gateway Transit Center
• Drop-off/pick-up locations: Main Hurricane Ridge visitor area, with two stops along the way at Lake Angeles & Switchback trailheads
• Operating season: Daily from late May through early September (check for exact dates); Saturdays only in winter through Olympic Hiking Co.
• Frequency: Leaves Port Angeles hourly from 8am-4pm (check for exact times)
• Cost: You’ll need both an Olympic National Park pass and a $1 Clallam Transit pass. The cost for the winter shuttle is $25 through Olympic Hiking Co. 
• Pets: Pets can ride but need to be secured in an enclosed container.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible. Strollers must be stowed during the ride.
• Check updates: Always confirm the latest schedule on the Clallam Transit website before your trip.

Look for the A-Board Sign

My first time taking the bus, I wasn’t sure what to do, but the A-board sign had everything I needed.

Riding the Hurricane Ridge shuttle requires two things: 

1. Park pass: Buy online in advance if you don’t already have one.
2. $1 Clallam Transit pass: Pay cash to the driver or purchase online through the Token Transit app.

Downloading the app and paying for the $1.00 pass was easy and quick. It took me just a few minutes, and I was all set.

There’s an enclosed outdoor bathroom stall available right next to the shuttle waiting area. I was relieved to see this—restroom facilities aren’t available on the bus.  

Should You Take the Hurricane Ridge Shuttle or Drive? (Pros & Cons)

Take the shuttle if you’re arriving later in the day or feel uneasy about driving a mountain road. It’s ideal for visitors who don’t have a car or want a stress-free way to reach the top without worrying about entrance lines or parking.

Drive to Hurricane Ridge yourself if you want maximum flexibility. 

The last shuttle leaves at 5:30pm, which means you’ll miss out on sunset views and can’t linger at scenic pullouts on your way down. You also won’t be able to explore side trips like Obstruction Point Road.

When I came down the Switchback Trail, I wanted to hike over to the main visitor area and check out more Hurricane Ridge trails, but skipped it, afraid I’d miss the last shuttle.

Still, I’d take the shuttle again and again. 

For me, the ease and peace of mind are worth more than the freedom to stay late or stop wherever I want.

Where to Catch the Hurricane Ridge Shuttle From Port Angeles

You’ll board the shuttle from the outdoor waiting area at the Gateway Transit Center.

It’s near the Port Angeles Wharf and within walking distance from downtown Port Angeles hotels and the Black Ball Ferry Line to Canada.

I parked across the street in the public garage, which has upper and lower levels with a pay station on the lower level. 

Even on a summer weekend, plenty of spots were open, and it was only a short walk to the shuttle pick-up area.

There’s also a free underground garage directly at the Transit Center, accessed off East Railroad Avenue between The Rail and Moby Duck restaurants.

Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early to find parking, buy your transit pass, and use the bathroom before departure.

Map of Shuttle Stops, Parking & Pick-Up Points

Here’s a map of  where to catch the shuttle, nearby parking garages, and other key spots in Port Angeles and Hurricane Ridge mentioned in this post.

What the Ride to Hurricane Ridge is Like

Riding the shuttle to Hurricane Ridge felt like being on a clean, comfortable city bus—but with way better views.

As we cruised past the long entrance line, I knew I’d made the right choice. 

The bus climbed steadily up the mountain road, weaving through dense forest with views of the Olympic Mountains towering above the trees.

The vibe on board was calm and relaxed. I listened to a podcast while others chatted and watched the scenery go by. 

A few kids wandered the aisle between seats without issue, and no one seemed bothered by the winding road—no motion sickness that I could tell.

The ride from the Gateway Transit Center to the Switchback Trailhead took about 35 minutes. 

Before getting off, I checked with the driver to confirm what time I needed to be back to catch the return shuttle.

Wondering What to Do at Hurricane Ridge?

Hurricane Ridge is a must for any Olympic Peninsula itinerary, even if you only have a few hours. 

The high-elevation mountain views and easy-access trails make it one of the top attractions in the park, along with the Hoh Rainforest and the Sol Duc region. 

I’ve put together a full guide to visiting Hurricane Ridge that covers the best viewpoints, hikes, and insider tips. 

Planning your trip to Port Angeles, too? 

Here’s how I spent a day in town and my favorite places to stay in Port Angeles if you’re making it your base.