Hurricane Ridge, so named for the gale-force winds that pummel this nearly-mile-high ridge in the upper regions of Olympic National Park, is one of the most popular all-year round destinations in the park.
The ridge is accessible by the Hurricane Ridge Road, which is open 24 hours a day every day spring–fall and continues to stay open on weekends, weather permitting, throughout winter.
Summer at Hurricane Ridge
Hiking Hurricane Ridge is a valuable and worthwhile experience, with many different trails to choose from. Hiking Hurricane Hill will get you to a vista point where you can see a 360 degree view. North, you can feast your eyes across the Straits of Juan de Fuca to Victoria, Canada, and south to Mount Olympus. While you’re up here, check out the visitor center, gift shop, snack bar, and picnic areas available at the end of the Hurricane Road.
Winter at Hurricane Ridge
During the colder months, Hurricane Ridge opens as a great, though small, ski resort. With an average of 400 inches per year of snowfall, be prepared for some of the freshest powder you’ve ever floated on. The ski operation is managed by the Hurricane Ridge Winter Sports Club. They offer many groomed runs, which are great for the amateur, and some incredible open bowls and glades that are definitely epic enough to be worth the hike it takes to get up to the top.
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