Guide to Visiting Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park for First-Timers
Visiting Hurricane Ridge in June, I watched two eagles loop through the air at eye level, their backdrop the impressive Olympic peaks spanning the horizon from the Klahane Ridge Trail.
The extraordinary high-elevation perspective you get at Hurricane Ridge is why it belongs on every Olympic National Park itinerary—and why I’ve returned three times this year.
And it’s not just for hikers. Easy walks and impressive views from the parking lot make the scenery accessible to anyone.
But planning a visit can feel overwhelming when you don’t know what the drive is like, how much time to spend, or which Hurricane Ridge hikes are worth the effort.
As a local who’s hiked here for years, I’ll answer all of those questions and share the best things to do at Hurricane Ridge for a smooth first-time visit.
Let’s go!
Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park: Know Before You Go
Hurricane Ridge Road is open year-round, but only Friday through Sunday in winter. Closures can happen without notice, so always check park alerts before you go.
One January, I waited until we were halfway up the road to check conditions, only to find it had closed for the day.
Don’t repeat my mistake! Check road conditions before every trip.
When to Visit Hurricane Ridge
Summer brings colorful wildflowers, fall features vibrant foliage, and snow activities make the ridge my go-to in Olympic National Park in winter.
In spring, be prepared to navigate over snow, even in late May.
I include a seasonal guide below, but for most first-time visitors, summer is the best time to visit, despite the crowds. It’s when you’ll have the widest range of trails and road access.
I love early summer visits to catch peaks still covered with snow.
Planning a trip to Olympic? Mornings see fewer crowds, but late afternoon until sunset is also fantastic, especially for photographers.
Getting to Hurricane Ridge
Hurricane Ridge is 17 miles south of Port Angeles, the closest city to stay in.
On our last trip, we ate breakfast downtown at sea level, then a few hours later, I was looking down on that same spot from Sunrise View Point.
➜ Many visitors stay in downtown Port Angeles, minutes from the road to Hurricane Ridge. Check hotel rates and availability here.
The drive to the main parking lot takes about 25 minutes from the Heart O’ the Hills entrance station and the lanes are wide enough that most drivers find the winding road manageable.
Parking fills quickly in summer, so aim to arrive by 8am or after 4pm for the best chance of getting a spot, especially on weekends.
But what’s it actually like to drive up this mountain road?
Driving Hurricane Ridge Road
Many of my itinerary clients ask: “Is the drive to Hurricane Ridge scary?” I get it—I get anxious on mountain roads with drop-offs, too.
Some sections have guardrails, and you can always take it slow. My husband Colby drove 35 mph on our drive down, pulling off at viewpoints to let faster cars pass.
I filmed this video while he drove.
If you’d rather not drive, the Hurricane Ridge shuttle from Port Angeles is a stress-free option that runs daily from late May through early September.
For winter visits, Olympic Hiking Co. runs Saturday shuttle routes.
The buses are clean, and taking one means I can sleep in without worrying about finding a parking spot.
Facilities & Services
The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center burned down in 2023, but restrooms, benches, picnic tables, and water are available near the parking lot. Trash bins are available, too, though I pack my garbage out to help reduce the load on the park.
The Olympic National Park Visitor Center (10 minutes before the entrance on Mount Angeles Road) has wildlife exhibits, maps, and wilderness camping permits.
Since there’s nowhere to buy food, I like to stop at Country Aire in downtown Port Angeles to pick up sandwiches and snacks for an outdoor picnic.
How Much Time Do You Need?
How long you spend visiting Hurricane Ridge depends on how much hiking you want to do.
At a minimum, plan for a 2–3 hour trip to enjoy the scenic drive, take in the views, and explore a short trail.
- Option 1: From the parking lot, walk up the Big Meadow Nature Trail, cut west on the Sunrise Viewpoint Nature Trail, and continue on the High Ridge Trail to Sunrise Point.
- Option 2: Drive to the Hurricane Hill trailhead. Hike to views of Mount Baker to the east, the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north, and Vancouver Island across the water.
Set aside at least 3–5 hours if you’d like to hike farther.
- Option 1: Hike Hurricane Hill Trail, then return to the main lot for an Overlook Talk led by a ranger (daily at 1:30 during peak season).
- Option 2: For more elevation and fewer crowds, hike to Klahane Ridge from the main lot. (Sunrise Ridge Trail to Klahane Ridge on AllTrails.)
A 6–8 hour day is easy to fill with a morning hike, a picnic lunch, an afternoon trail—or one long adventure if you’re up for it.
- Option 1: Start with Hurricane Hill, then return to the main lot. After a picnic lunch, head to Klahane Ridge.
- Option 2: If you’d like a challenge, hike from the main lot to Klahane Ridge and continue to Lake Angeles for incredible views, or turn around at any point.
PRO TIP: Download your AllTrails maps in advance. Even if you have the app, cell service is unreliable here. I’ve met groups who had to ask for directions because their maps wouldn’t load.
Need help with trip planning?
I offer custom itinerary planning services to help you save hours (or days!) of research and plan your trip with confidence.
3 Best Things to Do at Hurricane Ridge
Whether you have two hours or a full day, here’s what to do at Hurricane Ridge.
1. Soak in Hurricane Ridge Views
If all you have time for is a look from the parking lot, is the drive still worth it? On a clear day, absolutely—the views alone are unforgettable.
Parking Lot
Some of the best views at Hurricane Ridge don’t require any hiking. From the main parking area, you’ll find overlooks with sweeping panoramas of the Olympic Mountains and deep valleys below.
Sunrise View Point
From the Sunrise View Point via the High Ridge Nature Trail, you’ll see Ediz Hook—Port Angeles’s narrow sand spit—and even Canada across the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
I like the first mountain viewpoint below it just as much, because you feel closer to the mountains and the valley below. While you won’t get a look to the north, the views are jaw-dropping, especially for such a short hike.
Ridge Views on the Hike to Kalahane Ridge
The trail to my favorite viewpoint is called Sunrise Ridge Trail to Klahane Ridge on AllTrails, but the NPS map calls it Klahane Ridge. When you come to your first Y, head left for the view.
I love this spot because it feels like you’re standing at the center of an epic 360-degree view.
In one direction you get the Olympic peaks, but in another, the landscape shifts: rocky slopes, clustered alpine evergreen trees, and folds in the terrain.
2. Hike Hurricane Ridge Trails
Hiking Hurricane Ridge trails is one of the top activities in Olympic National Park.
Easy Trails
Several easy hikes start right from the main parking lot, including Big Meadow Loop, Cirque Rim, and High Ridge. These short paths offer big views with minimal effort—perfect for families or anyone short on time.
Walking the Big Meadow Trail, I marveled at the brilliance of the parking lot’s location, the perfect central hub for exploring this incredible mountainscape.
Easy to Moderate Trail
The Hurricane Hill Trail is the ridge’s most popular hike. At 3.4 miles round trip, it’s relatively short, but I still huff and puff up the steeper sections. Thankfully, there are benches along the way to catch your breath.
The trail’s paved path climbs steadily to views of the Cascades, the Puget Sound, and the San Juan Islands.
Hard Trail
The Heather Park via Lake Angeles Trail is an epic 14-mile, 5,000-foot gain route best left to experienced hikers or backpackers.
I met a couple who parked at the Lake Angeles trailhead, and instead of completing the loop, hiked down to the main visitor parking lot, then rode the shuttle back to their car.
3. View Wildlife at Hurricane Ridge
The deer at Hurricane Ridge are known for walking right past you, seemingly unbothered by your presence.
Because of this, many forget that these animals are wild.
I once watched a toddler chase a deer, trying to feed it, while her mother looked on. The deer was skittish, and the child could easily have been hurt.
Follow park guidelines and stay 75 feet away from wildlife.
Here are some of the animals you’re most likely to encounter:
- Marmots: Commonly spotted in summer. You’ll likely hear their high-pitched whistle before you see them.
- Grouse: On the Big Meadow Loop, we saw a group cross the trail, foraging as we passed.
- Black bears: They roam the Hurricane Ridge area. Sightings near busy trails are rare, but it’s wise to carry bear spray as a precaution.
Cougar sightings are rare, but in 2025, a child was attacked and saved by his father. It’s unlikely you’ll ever encounter one, but know what to do in case you do.
Enjoy Olympic’s best northern attractions on a stress-free guided tour, so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
More Ways to Experience Hurricane Ridge
Here are a few other experiences that can make your trip even more memorable.
Camp at Heart O’ the Hills Campground
We often park at Heart O’ the Hills Campground while waiting for the gate to open in winter, and its clean restrooms and potable water make it a convenient stop.
If you want to stay as close to Hurricane Ridge as possible, the only better option is backcountry camping—like Lake Angeles, Heather Park, or trails off Obstruction Point Road.
Join a Ranger-Guided Program
Scanning the information board in the main parking lot, I was excited to see listings for Full Moon Hikes with an astronomer-led constellation tour, part of the park’s Night Sky Program.
Rangers also lead Meadow Walks, Overlook Talks, and evening presentations at the Heart O’ the Hills amphitheater, surrounded by old-growth forest.
Adventure on Obstruction Point Road in Summer
Having only recently graduated from a Prius to a RAV4, I haven’t yet driven this road myself, but I’ve heard folks describe “white-knuckling” the steering wheel, while others called it “fun and easy.”
If you’re a timid driver in a sedan, it’s best to skip it. But if you’re up for an adventure and don’t mind some washboarding, the views and trail access along this gravel mountain road are incredible.
Snowshoe, Ski, or Tube in Winter
On a February visit, we started up to Hurricane Hill in snowshoes but eventually switched to microspikes because the snowpack was so low. After a big dump, though, Hurricane Ridge is excellent for snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
You can also join a ranger-led snowshoe walk. The road only opens Friday through Sunday in winter, and you’ll need to carry tire chains.
Tips for Visiting Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park
These essential tips will help you stay safe, pack smart, and show up prepared.
Things to Know:
- Park pass required
- Limited RV parking available
- Bathrooms and potable water available
- Pets and bikes not allowed on trails
- Drones prohibited
- Never feed wildlife — it harms them and can put you at risk
- Guided tours available
Safety & What to Pack
- Road safety: I see a ton of rockfall along the road, so stick to the speed limit, especially around curves. Watch for wildlife and give space to cautious drivers.
- Hiking safety: Ridge trails are fully exposed, so bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and more water than you think you’ll need. Winter and shoulder-season hikes often require gaiters, microspikes, or snowshoes.
- Wildlife safety: Keep kids close, rather than letting them run far ahead. Fast movement can trigger a predator’s instincts. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Packing essentials: Hiking shoes, snacks, and a water bladder or extra Nalgenes. Trekking poles make steep sections easier and protect your knees on the descent.
Weather Preparedness
- Mountain weather changes quickly. Always pack layers when heading into Olympic so you’re prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Before heading up, I always check two things: the NOAA forecast and the Hurricane Ridge webcam.
Seasonal Guide to Hurricane Ridge
I’ve seen firsthand how much timing can change the experience, even during the same season.
Spring (May–June)
Snow lingers longer than you might expect. Lower-elevation areas may be snow-free, but higher trails like Hurricane Hill often remain snow-covered into mid-June.
Based on trail reports I monitor while planning itineraries, even late May and early June visits mean you’ll hike over snow.
If you’re visiting this time of year, microspikes or snowshoes may still be necessary.
Summer (late June–September)
Trails are snow-free and days are generally clear. This is the busiest season, so plan to arrive by 8am or after 4pm to get parking.
This summer, I visited in late June and again on Labor Day. The difference was striking.
In June, the peaks were still covered with snow, the wildflowers were in full bloom, and the air was crisp and clear. By September, haze dulled the distant views, and the snow had vanished—but the contrast of gold grasses and blue mountain layers was remarkable.
Fall (October)
Fall in Olympic is excellent. Expect cooler temperatures and the first snowfall by late October.
While I haven’t visited Hurricane Ridge in the fall yet, clients have shared how peaceful it feels compared to peak summer, especially with fewer crowds and colorful foliage in the valleys below.
Just keep in mind that the weather can change quickly, and road closures can happen without notice.
Winter (November–April)
The road is open Friday through Sunday if conditions allow. Snowshoeing, skiing, and tubing are available. Tire chains are required for all vehicles, including AWD and 4WD.
On one bluebird February day, my friend Jenna stripped down to a tank top while we hiked. On another occasion, my water bladder hose was frozen solid by lunch.
Winter at Hurricane Ridge swings wildly—check the forecast, watch alerts, and bring more layers than you think you’ll need.
Things to Do Near Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park
If you’re looking to extend your day near Hurricane Ridge, consider these nearby destinations.
- Port Angeles Beaches (45-55 min): Ideal if you prefer not to drive too far. My favorites include Ediz Hook and Crescent Beach, two stunning beach destinations I frequent that rival spots inside the park. The tide-pooling at Salt Creek is excellent.
- Madison Falls & the Elhwa River (50 min): Accessible waterfall stop that requires only a short walk. The Elwha River across the lot flows freely thanks to the nation’s largest dam removal project and the involvement of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe.
- Lake Crescent (1 hour): Option to stop at Granny’s Café off Highway 101. This combination works well if you’re trying to include multiple highlights, like Devil’s Punchbowl, in a single day. Get the soft-serve ice cream at Granny’s!
- Sol Duc Valley (1.5 hours): There’s more to see here than just the falls. Consider booking a guided tour that combines Sol Duc, Lake Crescent, and Hurricane Ridge in one day—a stress-free way to see it all without driving yourself.
Where to Stay Near Hurricane Ridge
Port Angeles is the nearest city and the largest on the Olympic Peninsula, making it the best base for visiting Hurricane Ridge.
Best Budget Option: Super 8 by Wyndham
I’ve stayed in the Efficiency Room at Super 8 by Wyndham, an admittedly terrible name for an excellent space. It feels like a small apartment with a living room and a full kitchen.
Best Mid-Range Stay: Olympic Lodge by Ayres
Olympic Lodge is the best hotel in Port Angeles, hands down. The staff are incredibly friendly, and no other hotel in town offers as many amenities, including a pool and 24-hour gym.
Best Splurge Stay: A Hidden Haven Cottages
Each of the Hidden Haven Cottages features cozy, beautifully crafted details and home-like conveniences like relaxing bathtubs, washers, and dryers.
Here are more places I’ve stayed while exploring the park’s northern attractions:
- Log Cabin Resort at Lake Crescent
- Emerald Valley Inn off Highway 101
- Crescent Beach RV Park on the coast
Need a place to stay? Book Olympic Lodge, a top-rated hotel with a high-end cabin feel and all the amenities you’ll need.
Ready to Plan Your Trip to Hurricane Ridge?
No visit to Olympic National Park is complete without a trip to Hurricane Ridge. It’s one of the park’s most iconic destinations, right alongside the Hoh Rain Forest.
If you’re looking for more ideas nearby, check out how I spent a day in Port Angeles.
And if you’d rather skip the stress of planning and get a custom itinerary that includes a seamless trip to Hurricane Ridge, book a travel consultation with me.
One client’s testimonial said it felt “like getting trip advice from an old friend who you can trust.”
