Sunrise Viewpoint Nature Trail

Why hike it

If you want big Olympic Mountain scenery for very little effort, this is your move. The Sunrise Viewpoint sits on a narrow crest above Hurricane Ridge, delivering sweeping looks across deep valleys and out to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Vancouver Island on clear days. Expect a quick outing with a huge payoff—and summer wildflowers add bonus color.

The route

From the Hurricane Ridge area (near the ski area), start uphill on the paved path and take the High Ridge route to the signed Sunrise spur. The outing is about 0.9 miles round trip via the High Ridge Nature Trail with roughly 219 feet of gain, ending on a short ridge-top spur to the viewpoint. Surfaces are a mix of early pavement and natural tread higher up. If you want to make it a loop, return via Cirque Rim; if you want a touch more mileage, briefly sample Klahhane Ridge from the junction, then turn around.

What you'll see

The panorama takes in serrated Olympic peaks and steep, forested valleys. On clear days, look north to the Strait and Vancouver Island. In summer, watch for patches of lupine, paintbrush, and avalanche lilies along the ridgeline meadows. The ridge environment is fragile and dry—plants struggle here—so staying on-trail really matters.

Difficulty and exposure

It’s easy overall, but the final spur runs along a narrow ridge with drop-offs on both sides. Most hikers are fine, yet those with vertigo may not love the last stretch. Stick to the Sunrise spur and High Ridge loop to avoid the more exposed terrain farther along Klahhane Ridge.

Tips

• Stitch nearby short paths (High Ridge, Cirque Rim, Big Meadow) into a custom mini-loop without losing the views.
• Go early or on a clear day; clouds can erase the panorama. Sunrise light here lives up to the name, and sunset is great too.
• Check Hurricane Ridge Road status before you go; weather can shut it quickly, even in shoulder seasons.
• No dogs on this trail.

Best time to hike

Late June through September is prime: usually snow-free, wildflowers blooming, and the road reliably open. Weekday mornings beat the crowds. Aim for clear skies for Strait and island views; bring a layer—the ridge can be breezy even on warm days.