Sunrise Ridge Trail

Why go

If you want Hurricane Ridge’s knock‑out scenery without the conga line, Sunrise Ridge is the move. This high, open ridgeline serves up panoramic Olympic peaks and, on clear days, glimpses of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. In summer the meadows light up with magenta paintbrush, lupine, penstemon, bistort, phlox, and larkspur. It’s classic alpine walking—airy, photogenic, and far quieter than nearby Hurricane Hill.

The route

Start at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center (Big Meadow area). Follow the paved High Ridge Nature Trail briefly over a small knoll (serviced by a winter surface ski lift). The pavement ends; continue on dirt singletrack along the ridge. A short spur leads to Sunrise Point, then the main tread undulates across open slopes to the usual turnaround near the Switchback Trail junction. The standard hike is about 5.2–5.5 miles total out-and-back with roughly 1,000–1,100 feet of gain. Strong hikers can extend toward Klahhane Ridge or Mount Angeles for bigger days, but the core Sunrise Ridge outing holds its own.

What it feels like

Expect immediate alpine: little tree cover, rolling ups and downs, and sections with steep drop‑offs. The tread is narrow and can be dusty-slippery in dry spells. Views are the point—bring a camera and give yourself time to linger. Wildlife sightings are common; keep an eye out for deer, coyotes, ground squirrels, and the occasional black bear.

Best time to hike

Late June through September is prime for snow-free travel, wildflowers, and stable weather. May and October can be lovely and quiet, but lingering snow or mud isn’t unusual. Hit it early or late in the day for softer light, calmer winds, and more solitude—plus better chances for wildlife.

Practical tips

• No water on route; carry all you’ll need. Little shade—sun protection and a hat matter.
• Trekking poles help on the undulating, sometimes loose tread.
• Mountain weather changes fast; pack layers and check conditions before heading out.
• In winter this corridor sees snowshoeing and backcountry travel—navigation skills and avalanche awareness are essential.

Geology and stewardship

You’re walking uplifted, glaciated sedimentary terrain, with ridgelines and cirques carved by ice. It’s a fragile subalpine ecosystem—stay on trail to protect the meadows.

Bottom line

A high-reward, lower-crowd ridge walk that starts right from the visitor center. If you’re debating between this and Hurricane Hill: for elbow room and equal views, Sunrise Ridge wins.