Hurricane Ridge is a high-elevation alpine destination in Washington's Olympic Peninsula, celebrated for sweeping mountain panoramas, wildflower meadows, and abundant wildlife.
Hurricane Ridge sits within Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting one of the most ecologically diverse landscapes in North America. The ridge has long served as the primary high-country destination in the park, offering accessible alpine terrain without requiring technical climbing.
Trails fan out from the visitor center in several directions, ranging from paved walking paths suitable for all abilities to longer backcountry routes leading into the heart of the Olympic Mountains. The Sunrise Ridge and Big Meadow trails are popular for their open sightlines and frequent wildlife encounters.
In winter, Hurricane Ridge operates a small ski and snowshoe area, one of the few places in the country where you can ski with a view of the Pacific Ocean on clear days. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers share groomed and ungroomed terrain through old-growth subalpine forest.
The visitor center provides exhibits on the park's geology, ecology, and the indigenous peoples of the Olympic Peninsula. For anyone seeking genuine mountain wilderness without a lengthy approach, Hurricane Ridge remains one of the most rewarding destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Visit during late June or early July to catch the peak wildflower bloom across the open meadows.
Arrive early in the morning on weekends, as the parking area fills quickly during summer months.
Bring extra layers even in summer, since temperatures at the ridge can drop sharply and winds pick up without warning.
Watch for black-tailed deer and Olympic marmots near the visitor center, where they are often spotted grazing close to the trails.
Take the Hurricane Hill Trail for a two-mile walk to one of the most expansive summit views on the entire ridge.
Ride and hike to Olympic Hot Springs via Glines Canyon
Rent a Pedego e-bike and cruise paved Olympic Discovery Trail routes
Bikepacking rentals from Port Gamble near Olympic National Park