Overview
Hurricane Hill offers one of the most accessible high-country experiences in the Olympic Mountains. Starting from the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center at 5,242 feet, the trail requires only 700 feet of elevation gain to reach a summit ridge with views that rank among the best in Washington State. The perspective combines the jagged Olympic peaks to the south and east with the broad sweep of the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north and Vancouver Island's dark green profile beyond.
This trail falls within Olympic National Park rather than Olympic National Forest proper, though the two units are tightly linked on the northern peninsula. The Olympic National Forest surrounds the park on most sides and provides access roads and lower-elevation recreation areas. Hurricane Ridge itself sits within the park, which means different fee structures and stricter wildlife regulations apply.
The Hurricane Ridge area is one of the most visited spots on the Olympic Peninsula for good reason: the drive up Hurricane Ridge Road eliminates thousands of feet of climbing that would otherwise separate sea-level visitors from the subalpine zone. The tradeoff is that the parking lot can fill by 10 AM on summer weekends. An early start is strongly recommended.
The Route
Miles 0 to 0.7: Visitor Center to Ridge Departure
The trail departs from the west end of the Hurricane Ridge parking area and follows the ridge crest westward. The first section is paved for a short distance near the visitor center and transitions to a well-maintained gravel and packed earth trail. The views begin immediately: the Olympic peaks rise to the south and the Strait opens to the north.
Olympic marmots are often spotted in the first half mile, particularly near rocky outcrops. They are habituated to human presence here and may approach closer than expected. The park asks visitors not to feed them.
Miles 0.7 to 1.6: Summit Ridge
The trail continues west along the ridge with views opening in multiple directions. The grade is gentle to moderate, and the trail passes through open subalpine meadows with patches of subalpine fir and mountain hemlock. Deer are frequently seen grazing in the meadow sections.
The trail reaches the Hurricane Hill summit at 5,757 feet at approximately 1.6 miles. The summit is a broad point rather than a sharp peak, with the view panorama described by many as the best single viewpoint in the Olympic Mountains: the Strait of Juan de Fuca running east-west before you, Vancouver Island on the northern horizon, and the Olympic massif rising to the south and east.
On clear days, Mt. Rainier is visible to the southeast, 75 miles away. The San Juan Islands are visible through the Strait. In summer, cruise ships and container vessels transit the Strait below.
When to Visit
July through October is the typical season. Hurricane Ridge Road generally opens in late May to early June, but snow can persist on the trail itself into July in heavy snow years. August is the most reliable month for a snow-free hike and clear weather. September combines stable weather, fewer crowds, and excellent fall light.
The ridge is fully exposed to wind and weather. Even in summer, winds of 30+ mph are common. Layers and wind protection are appropriate even on warm days at the parking lot level, as temperatures can drop significantly when the wind picks up.
What to Bring
- A wind layer and warm hat are appropriate even in July and August. The ridge can be significantly cooler than Port Angeles below.
- Many hikers carry 1 to 1.5 liters of water for the 3.2-mile round trip. Water is available at the visitor center. Individual needs vary.
- Sun protection: the trail is almost entirely above treeline with minimal shade.
- Camera: the views from the summit are among the most photographed in the state.
- Binoculars for identifying distant peaks and watching marine traffic in the Strait.
Practical Details
The Olympic National Park entrance fee ($35/vehicle for 7 days as of 2026) is collected at the Hurricane Ridge Road entrance station. The America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass covers this fee.
Flush restrooms are available at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center. The visitor center is open seasonally and has exhibits, ranger staff, and a small snack bar. Hours vary by season.
Dogs are not permitted on the Hurricane Hill trail or any backcountry trails in Olympic National Park. Dogs are allowed in parking areas and on paved surfaces only.
For context on the difference between national forest and national park fees and regulations, see the national forest vs. national park guide. Veterans and active military may be eligible for a free America the Beautiful pass; see veteran benefits for national forests.
Getting There
From Port Angeles, follow Hurricane Ridge Road (formally known as Hurrican Ridge Road) south from downtown for approximately 17 miles to the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center. The drive gains about 5,000 feet and takes 35-45 minutes. The road is paved throughout.
The road entrance gate is located at the park boundary a few miles from Port Angeles. Check Olympic National Park's website for current road status and any seasonal closures. The road closes overnight and opens each morning at a set time during summer; exact hours vary by season.
From Seattle, the drive to Port Angeles via the Kingston Ferry and Highway 104/101 is approximately 2.5 hours plus ferry time. Check Washington State Ferries for current schedules from downtown Seattle to Kingston. For current conditions before heading out, see checking conditions before you go.