Hurricane Ridge is the main mountainous section of Olympic National Park. The main reason to head up there and hike the Hurricane Ridge trails is to enjoy the stunning views. Though there are also meadows of colorful wildflowers in summer and good chances of seeing wildlife and birdlife.
There are plenty of trails to choose from – of all lengths and difficulties. This Hurricane Ridge hiking guide is here to help choose the best trails for your own interests and comfort level, as well as give you tips and advice on what to wear and take with you.
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*** As of May 2023, a fire that completely destroyed the Visitor Center and essential infrastructure. The area is open, but there are limited spots available daily. First come, first served. ***
Before we look at each of the top Hurricane Ridge – Olympic National Park – hikes, here are a few practical things to know:
What to Pack for Hiking at Hurricane Ridge
- Wind breaker. This area is named “Hurricane Ridge” because of the strong winds that blow here most of the time. I recommend taking a wind breaker. The wind can be chilly even in summer. If you need one, I like this Columbia windbreaker for men and this Little Donkey Andy windbreaker for women.
- Hiking poles. Some of these trails are paved, but others aren’t. Many of them have at least some steep sections. Hiking poles can help. I have these Foxelli trekking poles – they are really light weight, adjustable, have several tips and grippy handles. Get them here.
- Binoculars. These aren’t essential, but there are often birds soaring around and I like to take binoculars with me when I hike so I can see them up close. If you’re looking for some, read my guide to The Best Binoculars for the Money or get my top pick here.
- Sun hat, sunglasses and sun screen. Most of these trails are at high elevation and have minimal shade, at least for the upper sections. Be sure to wear sunscreen, a good sun hat and sunglasses.
- Bear Spray. You may encounter black bears on these trails, especially in early summer and fall. Be bear aware and carry bear spray or a bear bell just in case.
- Winter hiking gear. If you’re hiking in winter (or fall or spring for that matter), you will need good microspikes or snow shoes. Read my guides to The Best Microspikes for Hiking and The Best Snowshoes for Beginners if you need to buy some.
- Day Hike Essentials. Check my list of essential things to take and wear on a day hike to make sure you have everything you need.
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10 Best Hurricane Ridge Hikes
Tips for Hiking Hurricane Ridge
- The area is open all year, though the road up to Hurricane Ridge is only open on weekends (from 9 am to 4 pm Friday-Sunday) in winter (typically late November – late March). The rest of the year, the road is open 24/7, though all road openings are dependent on weather and road conditions. Check with the NPS for current road conditions.
- The main parking lot at Hurricane Ridge, near the Visitor Center, is reasonably sized but even so, it fills up by mid-morning, especially in summer. This can lead to long waits at the Heart of the Hills Entrance Station at the bottom of the mountain. Try to get there as early as possible.
- There is a parking lot at the Hurricane Hill Trailhead is much smaller, with only about 30 spaces. Try to get there are early as possible to secure a parking spot. If the parking lot is full, try the overflow parking areas at Picnic Areas A and B. You will need to walk from there to the trailhead. There is a path through the woods from Picnic Area B, which is the closest picnic area to the trailhead. It’s about a 15-minute walk.
- At Obstruction Point, the parking area is also not big, so also get here early.
- The road to Obstruction Point is not suitable for RVs and trailers. It was repaired late 2022 but is still narrow, unpaved, and winding. You will need to find a slightly wider section to pass if you encounter vehicles coming the other way. Drive slowly and if you feel uncomfortable driving on narrow roads with steep drop offs, you might choose not to go there. This road is closed in winter due to snow.
- Many of these trails have little or no shade, so be sure to be sun sensible.
- The trails are often covered in snow from October (or even September) until late June so microspikes or snowshoes are advisable at this time of year.
- Most of these hikes are best done on a clear day so you can enjoy the views. The weather at the top of Hurricane Ridge is often very different than the weather down in Port Angeles. There is a webcam you can check out before heading up.
- Keep an eye out for marmots, black bears and deer, which are often seen on the meadows in this area, especially in the summer and early fall.
- Read my Hurricane Ridge Visitors’ Guide for everything you need to know about Hurricane Ridge before you head up there
Guided Hike in Olympic National Park
If you only have time for a day trip from Seattle, then this private tour includes pick up and drop off at your hotel. You’ll have a knowledgeable guide and spend about three hours at Hurricane Ridge – more than enough time for some of the shorter hikes.
BOOK A PRIVATE ALL-DAY TRIP FROM SEATTLE TO HURRICANE RIDGE
Best Hurricane Ridge Hikes
The hikes listed here range from short and easy hikes the whole family can do to very long and strenuous hikes that should only be attempted by experienced hikers with a good level of fitness. All of them feature the views of the Olympic Mountains that Hurricane Ridge is famous for.
Most also traverse sub-alpine meadows which are beautiful any time of year, but are especially stunning when covered in wildflowers in late spring and summer. These trails all also provide good opportunities to see wildlife.
The longer trails descend from the mountain tops down to the forest at the bottom of the mountains.
There is truly something for everyone here. Whether you choose one, combine several into a longer hike, or go back over several days and hike them all, have a wonderful time!
READ MORE: Guide to Visiting Hurricane Ridge
1. Hurricane Hill Trail
Length: 3.2 miles return
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Change: + 700 feet
Trailhead: Hurricane Hill parking Lot
Description:
This trail is one of the top Hurricane Ridge hiking trails if you’re looking for expansive mountain views. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Canada.
The trail starts at the parking lot and the first 0.4 miles is fairly flat. The path then starts to climb up a series of broad switchbacks, passing through expansive meadows that burst into bloom in summer. Stop and enjoy incredible mountain views along the way.
There are also several interpretative panels at viewpoints, with information about different aspects of this area of the national park.
The trail is fully paved, expect for a very short distance right at the end to the very summit of Hurricane Hill. However, there are benches spaced along the way so you can rest. The first 0.5 miles is wheelchair accessible and the entire trail is doable with a stroller, as long as you are comfortable pushing it uphill.
Insider Tips
To reach the trailhead, drive 1.5 beyond the Hurricane Hill Visitor Center. This is a narrow road that’s not suitable for RVS and trailers.
If the parking lot near the trailhead is full, there is overflow parking at Picnic Areas A and B. There is a trail through the woods from Picnic Area B to the trailhead.
Highlights
Panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Canada.
Wildflowers in summer
Chances of seeing marmots, deer and black bears
READ MORE: Hurricane Hill Trail Guide
2. High Ridge Trail
Length: 0.5 mile loop
Difficulty: Easy (though it is steep in parts)
Elevation Change: +220 feet
Hurricane Ridge Trailhead: Opposite Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center (near the start of parking lot as you come up from Port Angeles)
Description:
This is perhaps the most popular Hurricane Ridge hike. Olympic National Park is famous for the mountain views, and this trail has spectacular views with minimal effort. It can also be easily connected with several other short trails in the area near the Visitor Center.
From the trailhead, you’ll be on the Big Meadow Loop for a short distance. At a fork, go right and for an even shorter distance, you’ll technically be on the Cirque Rim Trail. At the next fork, to hike in a counterclockwise direction, go right. This is the High Ridge Trail.
The trail climbs steadily, with wonderful views backwards towards the parking lot or to the right where you can see panoramic mountain views and the Hurricane Ridge Road snaking its way up from Port Angeles far below.
You’ll come to a four-way intersection. To the right is the trail to Klahhane Ridge. You could take this for a mile or so and then turn back for a longer hike. Straight ahead is a side out-and-back trail along a narrow ridge to Sunrise Point.
Take the turn on the far-left sharp left to start returning via a loop. This section has a short switchback section and goes through some woods.
After the switchbacks, you’ll come to another intersection. Go left to complete the loop back to the trailhead or turn right to hike the Cirque Rim Trail.
Keep an eye out for deer, bears, and marmots, as they are frequently seen in this area.
Insider Tips
I recommend hiking the High Ridge Trail in a counter-clockwise for the best views.
This hike is best done on a clear day, as the views are the major reason to be there.
Be sure to have good hiking shoes or boots (and microspikes if there is snow, which there often is well into June) and have hiking poles.
Highlights
Mountain views
READ MORE: Hurricane Ridge to Sunrise Point Trail Guide
3. Sunrise Point
Length: 0.1 miles each way
Difficulty: Easy (but drop offs on both sides of trail)
Trailhead: At the far end of the High Ridge Trail loop
Description:
At the four-way intersection on the High Ridge Trail, go straight ahead. This is an out-and-back trail along a narrow ridge.
There are steep drop offs on both sides, so this can be challenging if you have a fear of heights. However, the path is wider than it looks from below and the trail is mostly actually not right on the very top of the ridge – it hugs the side near the top, so it isn’t quite as scary as I thought it would be.
At the top is a broad section where you can rest and enjoy wonderful views of the Olympic mountains. You can see Hurricane Ridge Road snaking its way up the mountain far below.
Once you’re ready, return back the same way along the ridge. Back at the four-way intersection, if you go right, you start returning via a loop on the High Ridge Trail loop.
Insider Tip
I recommend hiking the High Ridge Trail in a counter-clockwise for the best views.
This hike is best done on a clear day, as the views are the major reason to be there.
Be sure to have good hiking shoes or boots (and microspikes if there is snow, which there often is well into June) and have hiking poles.
Highlights
Mountain views
READ MORE: Hurricane Ridge to Sunrise Point Trail Guide
4. Cirque Rim Trail
Length: 0.5 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Change: < 50 feet
Trailhead: Either end of the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center Parking lot (connects with the High Ridge Trail and the Big Meadow Trail)
Description:
The Cirque Rim is one of the easier hiking trails Hurricane Ridge has, and can be easily combined with other trails in the area around the Visitor Center for longer hikes.
Most of the trail runs along the rim of a large bowl shape. One one side, it passes meadows that burst into wildflower blooms in summer. On the other are stunning mountain views. A highlight is the Cirque Rim Viewpoint, where you can see Port Angeles and the Strait of Juan de Fuca on clear days.
This is a paved trail that is perfect for kids and even possible in a wheelchair with some assistance. I recommend combining it with any or all of the Big Meadow Trail, the High Ridge Trail, and the Sunrise Point Trail.
Insider Tips
It’s best to hike the trail clockwise if you’re connecting to the Big Meadow trail that runs parallel below the rim because it makes the connections easier. Hike the trail counterclockwise if you’re connecting it to the High Ridge and Sunrise Point trails.
Highlights:
Meadows of wildflowers in summer
Panoramic views of the mountains and oceans beyond
Possibility of seeing marmots, bears, and deer
READ MORE: Cirque Rim Trail Guide
5. Big Meadow Trail
Length: 0.25 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Change: < 50 feet
Trailhead: Half way along the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center Parking lot or at the start of the High Ridge Trail at the near end of the parking lot (connects with the High Ridge Trail and the Cirque Rim Trail)
Description:
This is a short, easy and wheelchair accessible Hurricane Ridge trail. Olympic National Park has wildflower meadows that rival the more famous ones in Mount Rainier National Park, and this is one of the best places to see them. This is also a good place to see wildlife like deer and marmots, which often hang out here.
The views are not as dramatic as those on the Cirque Rim trail, which runs parallel but higher up on the edge of a rim, but there are still views of the Olympic Mountains. The main reason to do this hike, however, is the meadows.
From the trailhead, head straight up the paved path. It goes all the way to the Cirque Rim Viewpoint. A short distance before the viewpoint, the main section of the Big Meadow Trail goes off to the left. This takes you through the meadows.
When you get to the intersection, go right for a short distance to end up back at the parking lot or left to do the Cirque Rim loop.
Insider Tips
The easiest way to combine with this with other hikes in the area is to start this trail as described, turn left at the last intersection, but then very soon after, turn right to connect to High Ridge Trail, take part of the Klahhane Ridge Trail out and back, then go to Sunrise Point out and back, then loop back along the second of the High Ridge loop, and connect to the Cirque Rim trail and hike that counterclockwise. If you have the energy, this is an awesome way to see a lot of Hurricane Ridge and none of these trails are very difficult.
Highlights
Meadows with wildflowers and wildlife
Views of the Olympic mountains
6. Klahhane Ridge Trail
Length: 7.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 250 feet first 2.8 miles then 800 feet last mile
Trailhead: At the far end of the High Ridge Trail loop
With stunning views and summer wildflowers, it’s easy to see why this is one of the best hikes at Hurricane Ridge.
The trail starts at the far end of the High Ridge loop at the same place that the spur trail to Sunrise Point starts (0.2 miles from the main Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center parking lot). Turn right to go along Klahhane Ridge.
The trail has several side trails off it, and goes all the way to Angeles Lake, but the section described here is fairly flat and the wide-open meadows it passes through are the star of the show, except for the final set of switchbacks. Because it is open, there are also fabulous views the whole way in both directions.
1.8 miles into the hikes, you’ll pass the turn off to Mount Angeles. This is a steep hike, but only 0.6 miles in each direction. Another 0.5 miles along the trail, you’ll pass the switchback trail to Klahhane Ridge. This an alternate way to get to the Klahhane Ridge trail from a small parking area on the side of Hurricane Ridge Road. If you want to avoid the climb up to Klahhane Ridge, you can turn around here.
To continue up to the top of Klahhane Ridge, continue for another mile (each way) up a series of about ten steep switchbacks on fairly open hillside.
Insider Tips
You can make this a longer and more challenging hikes by going up to the summit of Mount Angeles (6.25 miles with 1,200 feet elevation change) or continuing all the way to Lake Angeles, where there is a small campsite (12.6 miles return with 4,514 feet elevation change).
You can also start at the switchback trail, though starting at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center is easier and flatter.
Highlights
Wildflowers
Views
Wildlife
7. Little River Trail
Length: 15.4 miles out-and-back
Difficulty: Challenging
Elevation change: 4,073 feet
Trailhead: On the Hurricane Hill Trail. Hike about 0.4 miles on the Hurricane Hill Trail and the Little River Trail starts off to the right.
Description:
This is one of the longest trails near Hurricane Ridge, but most of it is not steep – until near the end.
The trail starts mostly flat, wide and well-maintained and passes through beautiful sub-alpine meadows filled with wildflowers in summer. 1.6 miles into the hike is the first of several creek crossings, but these are easy to cross for most of the year.
After 1.75 miles, the hike leaves the meadows behind and enters the forest. There are several more creek and river crossings. There are also often downed trees that have fallen across the trail, so there is usually some climbing over them needed.
4.5 miles into the hike, you’ll reach the “rope” bridge – a log with a rope as a hand hold. This is a popular lunch spot and common turn around spot for people who are doing this hike in reverse and don’t want to hike all the way up to Hurricane Ridge and back.
The last 2.5 miles are well-maintained through more old growth forest, with huge trees, ferns and mosses.
Insider Tips
You can do this hike in reverse (start with ascent and end with descent) or start at the bottom and just hike to the rope bridge and back (though then you miss Hurricane Ridge)
The other option is to do a key swap (half your group park at one end and the other half park at the other end) and hike one way only
The trail is often narrow and the forest is all around you, so I recommend wearing long pants, a long sleeve shirt and gloves.
Highlights
Views
Old growth forest
8. Wolf Creek Trail
Length: 16.2 miles round trip; out-and-back
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation change: 3,772 feet
Trailhead: Between the Visitor Center and Hurricane Hill. Either park at one of the Hurricane Hill picnic areas and walk back towards the main Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center Parking area. The trailhead is about 0.5 miles along on the right if you’re walking from Hurricane Hill to the Visitor Center.
Or park at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center and walk 0.6 miles on the road to Hurricane Hill. The trail is on your left.
Description:
Of all the Olympic National Park Hurricane Ridge trails described here, this is the longest. However, while you drop down all the way from Hurricane Ridge to Elwha Valley, the elevation change is pretty steady the whole way.
The trail has a great combination of sensational views of the Olympic mountains, meadows with wildflowers, lush forests, and chances to see animals.
The Wolf Creek Trail starts with fairly gentle switchbacks down the side of the mountain, through gorgeous meadows. Keep an eye out for marmots, deer and black bears. There are nice views of the Elwha River, too. After about 2.5 miles, you enter the forest.
The trail ends at the Whiskey Bend Road, an abandoned road that led from the Elwha River at Whiskey Bend to Hurricane Ridge. You’ll need to turn around and hike back to Hurricane Ridge because the road in Elwha Valley is permanently closed to vehicular traffic, so there is no way of driving to this end of the trail.
Insider Tips
Wear bug spray.
Use hiking poles. I have these Foxelli trekking poles – they are really light weight, adjustable, have several tips and grippy handles. Get them here.
Most of the views are in the first 2.5 miles, so you could do just this section if you want a shorter hike.
Highlights
Meadows
Mountain views
Chances of seeing wildlife
Not crowded
9. Obstruction Point to Deer Park
Length: 13.9 miles out and back
Difficulty: Challenging
Elevation Change: 3,244 feet
Trailhead: Obstruction Point trailhead
Description:
Observation Point is a wonderful spot with sensational views of Mt. Olympus and its surrounding peaks. It’s also the starting point of several hikes near Hurricane Ridge and the trailheads are well signposted. The trail, too, is well-maintained and easy to follow.
The hike to Deer Park is long and has a lot of elevation change, but there is a nice balance of steep and flatter sections, so it’s not overwhelming.
It starts along a ridge with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It soon drops down the other side of the ridge. This section, which is slippery shale scree can be a little intimidating – hiking poles will help!
The trail alternates between shale and meadows for the first half. For the last three miles, it drops below the tree line and you enter thick forest. There are still occasional places to see the mountains around, but you will also get to enjoy the shade and the beauty of nature all around you.
The trail ends at the Deer Park trailhead where you can turn back around and hike back up to Obstruction Point.
Insider Tips
RVs and Trailers not recommended on either the Deer Park or Obstruction Point Roads
If Observation Point is closed (or you don’t want to drive there), you can still hike this trail in reverse from the Deer Park trailhead (though Deer Head Road is also closed in winter).
The other option is to do a key swap (half your group park at one end and the other half park at the other end) and everyone hikes one way only.
There is no water on the ridge and very little shade. So, bring a lot of water if you can. I love Hydro Flasks as they are easy to carry and keep water cold. Check them out here.
There can be bugs at the lower altitudes. Take bug spray.
The scree section can be scary, especially if you have a fear of heights. Bring hiking poles to help going over the scree section. I have these Foxelli trekking poles – they are really light weight, adjustable, have several tips and grippy handles. Get them here.
Highlights
Views
Meadows of wildflowers
Forests
10. PJ Lake
Length: 1.8 miles round trip, out-and-back
Difficulty: Moderate – Difficult
Elevation change: 825 feet
Trailhead: Obstruction Point Road (about half way between Hurricane Ridge Road and Obstruction Point parking lot)
This is one of the shorter Hurricane Ridge day hikes, but it is nonetheless challenging because it’s so steep. The reward is a lovely waterfall and a beautiful green subalpine lake.
Soon after leaving the trailhead, the trail starts a steep descent including a series of switchback with lovely views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The trail is rough in parts and winds in and out of the forest and meadows that are covered with wildflowers in summer. The trail crosses four narrow streams, passes a small but lovely waterfall, and actually climbs UP some small switchbacks to the lake at the end.
There is a primitive campground and great trout fishing. Plus, the views of the lake surrounded by forest and Hurricane Ridge towering above are breathtaking.
Insider Tips
The climb back is steep, so allow plenty of time and take it slow.
Definitely take hiking poles. The trail is steep and slippery and you will be thankful you have them. I have these Foxelli trekking poles – they are really light weight, adjustable, have several tips and grippy handles. Get them here.
Highlights
Mountain views
Lake
Waterfall
Hurricane Ridge Trail Map
Travel Insurance for Olympic National Park
You should definitely have travel insurance when you travel to Hurricane Ridge. Good travel insurance will cover you for trip cancellation, theft or damage if your property when traveling, medical help if you have an accident while doing any of these hikes from Hurricane Ridge or medical repatriation if you need to get medi-vaced out.
A great insurance option is Travelex. It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can compare Travel Insurance plans here or get a quote right now:
Happy hiking!
You Might Also Like:
>> Olympic National Park Guide
>> Best Hikes in Olympic National Park
>> Hurricane Ridge Visitors Guide
>> Best Hikes Near Lake Crescent
>> Best Sol Duc Hikes
>> Best Hoh Rainforest Hikes
>> Best Lake Quinault Hikes
>> Best Olympic National Park Beaches
>> Best Tide Pools in Olympic National Park
>> Best Waterfalls in Olympic National Park
Do you have any other top picks for the best hikes: Hurricane Ridge? I’d love to hear about it. Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).
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10 Best Hurricane Ridge Hikes
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About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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