Hurricane Hill Trail

Why this hike

Short distance, huge payoff. Hurricane Hill is one of the park’s signature viewpoints: 360-degree panoramas of the Olympic Mountains and, on clear days, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Vancouver Island, and even the Pacific. Expect company—it’s popular—but the scenery earns the hype.

The hike

It’s an out-and-back of about 3.2 miles total with roughly 650 feet of gain. The path starts near Hurricane Ridge, briefly dips, then climbs at a steady grade along the south side of the hill, wrapping through a few broad switchbacks to the summit. Much of the route is paved (some upper stretches may be gravel/dirt), which keeps footing solid but doesn’t mean it’s flat—there are sustained steep segments. Interpretive signs near the top help you pick out peaks and coastal landmarks.

Scenery and wildlife

You’re in open subalpine terrain almost the whole way: big meadows, scattered rock outcrops, and constant mountain-and-water views. July typically brings excellent wildflower displays. Wildlife shows are common—deer browse the meadows, Olympic marmots whistle from burrows, and mountain goats are occasionally spotted. Cloud inversions sometimes drape the valleys for dramatic photo ops.

Conditions and when to go

True to its name, it’s windy. Weather can flip fast, even in summer—bring a windbreaker and layers. Summer through early fall offers the easiest conditions; sunsets can be spectacular. In winter, this route becomes a popular snowshoe with generally low avalanche risk, conditions permitting.

Logistics

Parking is limited at the trailhead just past the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center; it fills early. Overflow is at Picnic Area B about half a mile away. Plan an early start or go late for easier parking and thinner crowds. Restrooms are at the trailhead. No pets on this trail.

Bottom line

If you’ve only got time for one quick, view-heavy walk at Hurricane Ridge, this is the one. The grade will warm your legs, the wind may test your layers, and the views will make you forget both.