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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
252 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
5.5 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge

Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge
Measurement:

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Table of contents

Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge is a perfect hike for beginners, families with kids, strollers, and hikers using wheelchairs, who can enjoy the first quarter mile. This 3.4mi route is paved and extremely easy to follow, allowing you to simply enjoy the expansive views. When it comes to views versus effort, this is an excellent payoff. With a rolling blanket of mountains stretched out before you, you’ll see why this hike is used by so many adventurers every year. It’s a great way to soak up the beauty of the Olympics without needing to work too hard, and the location makes it easily accessible from Port Angeles. Oh, and don’t worry- there are usually no hurricanes here. The road to the trailhead is subject to seasonal closures, so make sure you check the status before planning a winter trip. The ridge is open for skiing in the snowy season.

Route Description for Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge

When it comes to effort to reward ratio, the hike to Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge is a top contender. Easily accessible from Port Angeles (under an hour’s drive) and easy enough for young kids, beginners, and those with some mobility limitations, this is a fabulous trail to take with the whole family or when you just want the views without the effort.

If you can, we recommend planning this hike for a clear day. Of course, this isn’t always possible, but it’ll give you the most expansive views from the top.

The ridge is normally free of snow from about June through September, and it’s used for skiing in the wintertime. Make sure you check the status of the access road before coming down in the wintertime, as it’s subject to seasonal closures.

Park near the end of Hurricane Ridge Road. If you’re here early, you can park closer to the trailhead. If the trailhead parking is full, there are more spots near the visitor center. The trail begins 2.4 km past the visitor’s center. The path is paved and very easy to follow but could be slick in the wintertime or shoulder season. The elevation gain is very gradual and moderate, so you likely won’t need to huff and puff at any point.

The views unfold before you like a scene in a movie. While they’re great any time, we especially love this hike in the autumn when the trees begin to turn gold and red. Watch for deer in the trees as you slowly climb. There are benches along the trail if you need to stop and rest for a moment.

Mount Olympus, Puget Sound, and Vancouver Island are all visible on a clear day. Look over the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Elwha River Valley. You might even be able to spot some mountain goats roaming about.

At the top of the trail, find a big rock to sit on and take it all in. When you’re ready to return, you’ll simply retrace your steps back to the parking lot. We recommend stopping by the visitor center before you go to learn more about this area.

Trail Highlights

Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the tallest mountain in the Olympic Range, towering 2,432 m above the earth. This mountain is the feature of Olympic National Park, and of course, the namesake. It’s visible from Hurricane Hill.

Strait of Juan de Fuca

The Strait of Juan de Fuca holds the international boundary between Canada and the United States, separating British Columbia and Washington. This body of water serves as the outlet of the Salish Sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Hurricane Ridge open to the public?

The ridge is open daily in the summer and Saturdays and Sundays when the access road is open during the remainder of the year.

How much does it cost to go to Hurricane Ridge?

The park fees may change year to year, but you’ll need to pay entrance to Olympic National Park.

How long does it take to hike Hurricane Hill?

The hike takes about three hours on average.

Insider Hints for Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge

  • Don’t forget your National Park Pass for this hike.
  • Try going in the early morning or midweek for the quietest trail.

Getting to the Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge Trailhead

The trailhead for Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge is at the end of Hurricane Ridge Road. There is parking here.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    May-October

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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