Pros & cons
PROS
- Paved, well‑maintained trail with big rewards for little effort
- Panoramic summit views of the Olympics and the Strait of Juan de Fuca
CONS
- Small parking lot fills early
- Windy and fully exposed with little shade
Overview
Hurricane Hill is the signature summit at the west end of Hurricane Ridge, topping out around 5,757 feet. It’s popular for a reason: a straightforward, mostly paved path climbs a subalpine ridge to sweeping 360-degree views—think Mount Olympus and the Bailey Range one way, Port Angeles, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and even Vancouver Island the other.
The Hike
Plan on roughly 3 miles round trip with 700–800 feet of gain. The grade is steady but mellow thanks to switchbacks, and the surface is largely paved. You’ll have views almost the entire way, with interpretive signs near the top and occasional benches to catch your breath. There’s minimal shade, so it can feel hot on summer afternoons.
What Makes It Special
You get serious alpine payoff for a short effort: meadows, snow-speckled peaks, and a true horizon-to-horizon panorama. On clear days you can pick out ferries crossing the strait. It’s also one of the park’s best “first hikes” if you’re short on time—classic ridge scenery without committing a whole day.
Wildlife & Seasons
Keep an eye out for marmots, black‑tailed deer, and a variety of birds along the ridge; occasional mountain goat or black bear sightings happen, though the trail is busy. Summer brings wildflower color (often July). In winter, this is a beloved snowshoe route with relatively low avalanche exposure compared to steeper objectives.
Logistics
The trailhead sits near the end of Hurricane Ridge Road with a small lot that fills early—even on weekdays. There’s no restroom at the trailhead; the nearest facilities are along the road before you get there, and full services are back by the main Hurricane Ridge area. Expect strong winds—there’s a reason for the name—so bring a shell even on sunny days.
Tips for a Better Visit
- Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy quieter views.
- Bring sun protection and plenty of water—exposure is total.
- Pack a windbreaker; gusts are common year‑round.
- Check the park’s webcam/forecast before committing; weather changes fast.
Best Time to Visit
- Time of day: Early morning for solitude and clear air; summer sunsets are fantastic with warm light on the Olympics and the strait.
- Day of week: Weekdays are noticeably calmer than weekends.
- Season: July wildflowers are a standout; winter offers rewarding snowshoeing when conditions allow.
Where it is
47.9901, -123.5291Tips for Hurricane Hill
- 01Arrive before 9am to snag a parking spot.
- 02Bring a windbreaker—gusts on the ridge are the norm.
- 03Carry sun protection and water; there’s little to no shade.
- 04No restroom at the trailhead; use facilities before driving up.
- 05Aim for July for wildflowers or a clear day for sunset color.
Amenities
Near Hurricane Hill
All places →All trails →
1.1 mi awayHurricane HillPaved ridge walk to huge views of the Olympics and the StraitModerate · 3.2 mi · 2 hr
1.1 mi awayHurricane Hill TrailBig Olympics-and-sea views for a short, steady, family-friendly climbModerate · 3.2 mi · 2 hr
1.6 mi awayWolf Creek TrailRidge-to-valley solitude with Elwha views and lush, mossy forests.Challenging · 16.2 mi · 9.9 hr
1.9 mi awayHurricane Nature TrailShort, scenic loop with views, wildflowers, and interpretive signsEasy · 0.8 mi · 30 min
2 mi awayHurricane Ridge Visitor CenterDrive-to alpine vistas and trailheads; services limited post-fireVisitor Center · Restroom
2.1 mi awayHurricane Ridge Ski AreaTiny, throwback ski hill with huge views and natural powderParking · Restroom
2.9 mi awayWhiskey BendGateway trailhead into the Elwha's old-growth and historic homesteadsTrailhead · Parking
2.9 mi awayHumes Ranch CabinHistoric homestead cabins in a meadow above the Elwha RiverCampground
