Hurricane Ridge is calling, I must go!
Oh my goodness, friends! I am so excited to tell you all about one of the best places to hike in the wilderness of western Washington!
As someone who absolutely adores hiking, I had the opportunity to visit Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park with my husband and a special family friend that was visiting from out of town. It was a perfectly gorgeous day last summer, and I couldn’t wait to hit the trail. With my tennies laced up, my water bottle filled and a few healthy
snacks in my backpack, I eagerly set out to hike the 3mi round trip path that would lead to one of the best days I’ve had out in nature.
We were on our way!!
Getting to the park was a beautiful drive, with stunning panoramic views in the distance of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. I could feel my anticipation build as we crossed over the Hood Canal Bridge. Once we approached Port Angeles, I knew it wouldn’t be long before we turned left toward the mountains. The road to Hurricane Ridge is a winding, scenic route with plenty of pullouts for photo opportunities and it’s a good thing, because the wildlife seemed to stop and pose for any on-lookers who wanted to capture a few images. Once inside the park, there is a small entrance fee that goes towards maintaining the park and its facilities – which is well worth the experience!
My thighs and glutes were burning hotter than a roasting marshmallow over a campfire! It really was well worth it though; as we passed by fields of wildflowers in full bloom, with a variety of colors and fragrances filling the air.
Hiking The Hurricane Hill Trail
After parking at the trailhead, we set off on the Hurricane Hill Trail, which is a moderate to strenuous hike with an elevation gain of around 700 feet. It seems to never end as the switch backs keep your mind occupied because the view around every turn is just.. beautiful.
The trail starts off with a gentle incline through a wooded area with striking views of the surrounding mountains. As we continued higher, the trail became steeper and rockier, but the views only got better.
I was pleasantly surprised that the trail was well maintained, with clearly marked signs and occasional benches and short rock walls for resting, thank goodness! My thighs and glutes were burning hotter than a roasting marshmallow over a campfire! It really was well worth it though; as we passed by fields of wildflowers in full bloom, with a variety of colors and fragrances filling the air. The mountain just feels incredibly electric and alive. I honestly wanted to lay down and ground myself, soak up the energy that seemed to vibrate off its surface. It was such an earthy feeling – the smells from the trees, flora and fauna were spectacular. The scenery was breathtaking, with vast Olympic Mountains and the water views from the Strait of Juan de Fuca below.
As we climbed higher, the air became thinner and cooler, but the sun was hot at that elevation. The light breeze that kicked up was welcomed as we continued to the top. The trail became steeper and more challenging, but the payoff was amazing. We were rewarded with the absolutely the most incredible breathtaking views I had ever experienced (outside of Alaska) as visibility of the surrounding mountains and valleys seemed to go forever and swept me off my feet, with the beautiful snow-capped peaks in the distance.
The View from The Top
At the top of the trail, we were greeted with the best view of all – the vista from the top of Hurricane Hill. It was an awe-inspiring moment, as we looked out over the massive expanse of the Olympic Mountains and into the San Juan Islands and even as far north as Victoria, B.C. Just wow! We could see for miles in every direction, with nothing but pristine wilderness as far as the eye could see. You knew looking out there in the distance that it wasn’t just pristine, but also untouched wilderness with areas where no human had traveled. Nothing beats that feeling.
The view was so impressive, that we spent a good amount of time resting at the top while taking it all in. We snapped photos, sat on a nearby rock, and just enjoyed the peacefulness of being surrounded by nature. It was truly an unforgettable experience, one that we’ll cherish for a long time to come.
Those Pesky… What?
However, one tip I feel inclined to share is that I didn’t expect to be eaten alive by mosquitoes! Don’t forget to pack the bug repellent of your choice before you decide to hit the trail. There are also little biting flies that took me by surprise, that left a few parting gifts by way of “stings” on my legs. Yes, I wore shorts – and did end up paying for it with those pesky little bug bites!
Overall, the Hurricane Hill Trail is a challenging hike, but one that’s doable and definitely for the bucket list. The views are some of the most breathtaking in all of Olympic National Park, and the trail itself is well maintained and clearly marked. If you’re looking for a memorable hiking experience in the Pacific Northwest, the Hurricane Hill Trail is surely one to add to your list.
Hurricane Ridge Isn’t Just for Hiking
If hiking isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of other activities to enjoy at Hurricane Ridge. Visitors can take a scenic drive up to the top of the ridge near the visitor’s center, where there are several overlooks and picnic areas. There are also several shorter, easier trails in the area that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There’s no need to hike to see the wildlife as there’s plenty of marmot, chipmunks and deer that come to the area to dine and frolic in the lush fields of green grass.
In addition to hiking and scenic drives, there are also ranger-led programs and guided hikes available in the park. These programs are a great way to learn more about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife, and to get a deeper understanding of the unique ecosystem that makes up Olympic National Park. I used the word unique, but that doesn’t even describe what you’ll encounter. It really is a pretty neat area.
Did Somebody say… Star Gazing?!?
One of the most popular ranger-led programs at Hurricane Ridge is the star gazing program. I haven’t experienced this yet, but I learned that on clear nights, rangers set up telescopes and lead visitors on a tour of the night sky, pointing out constellations and other celestial objects. That’s one that’s on my bucket list for THIS summer as I hear it’s a truly unique and memorable experience, and one that’s not to be missed.
After a wonderful time spent hiking Hurricane Hill, it was time to make our way back down to the parking lot. As we descended, we took a few more breaks to admire the stunning views and to take some more photos. The way down was easier than going up, but we still had to watch our footing as there were some steep areas and gravel that was kicked up on the path.
On the way back down, we were greeted by a beautiful doe. She seemed to follow us down the path for a time and even came within 3 feet of me as she crossed the path to the other side. She looked me in the eye, so gentle and full of curiosity. Without hesitation she passed in front of me without a care in the world and kept moving slowly along her path. I couldn’t believe it. I sucked in my breath and smiled. That was a true gift all wrapped up in a single moment of pure bliss. To be in nature, with utter freedom to just “be”… and hang out with the animals that reside there – what a neat, neat day.
Once we made it back to the parking lot, we took a few moments to catch our breath and stretch out our legs. We also made a stop at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center to check out some of the exhibits, learn more about the park and buy some swag memorializing our trip.
On The Road Again
We finally made our way out of the park, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace. Back in the car with all the windows rolled down, the gentle wind blowing through my hair, I sat in gratitude while feeling so deeply blessed for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful place. The drive out of the park was just as scenic as the drive in, and we made a few more stops along the way to take in the beauty of the Olympic Mountains.
Overall, our visit to Hurricane Ridge was a memorable and rewarding experience – and one I’ll not soon forget. The hike up the Hurricane Hill Trail was challenging, but the intense views and the sense of accomplishment we felt made it all worth it. I highly recommend a visit to Hurricane Ridge to anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to experience the beauty of the Olympic National Park.
Tell me, have you been to Hurricane Ridge or is it on your bucket list? Share your experience, I’d love to hear what kind of magical pixie dust Hurricane Ridge sprinkled on your amazing day on the mountain.
