Hurricane Ridge visitor center is open seven days a week and even during the winter months, weather permitting, the Lodge and Hurricane Ridge road is open every day. In the lodge you will find a snack bar, ski rentals and gift shop. Hurricane Ridge has over 3 million visitors each year and is the most popular destination when visiting Port Angeles.
By the time visitors have driven uphill for so many miles, lots are ready for a good stretch. One of the easy hikes is Hurricane Hill Trail, which begins at the end of the Hurricane Ridge Road. In the 1.5 miles to the top of the hill are mountain peak vistas and views of Port Angeles and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Wildflowers are numerous in early summer. Wheelchair accessible first .5 mile only. This portion is paved but with steep drop-offs and no guard rail.
Another good choice for novice hikers is the Meadow Loop Trail, which begins near Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center. It offers a stroll through a typical subalpine environment, thick with wildflowers in summer. Watch for blacktailed deer, and listen for the whistle of the Olympic marmot. The trail continues to Klahhane Ridge. Paved meadow trails accessible with assistance.
For those with more endurance and more time, try one of the moderate hikes such as the 5.2 mile day hike from Hurricane Ridge Lodge to 5850 ft. Mt. Angeles. This hike offers spectacular views of Port Angeles and the leeward Olympic Mountains. Follow the trail for 2.2 miles, it intersects with the trail to the summit. The trail to the summit is unmarked by the park service, but well worn. It also connects to the Switchback Trail and Klahane Ridge.
A second moderate hike is the Switchback Trail/Klahhane Ridge trail. Start at the Third Peak Trail head, or 2 miles from the top of Hurricane Ridge. This trail will switchback over 22 times taking you to the top of Klahhane Ridge. The trail will go through alpine meadows and provide great views of Mt. Angeles, Port Angeles and the leeward Olympic Mountains.
For more information about Olympic National Park go to www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/visiting-hurricane–ridge.htm
