Best Hiking Trails at Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park

The trails at Hurricane Ridge offer some of the most breathtaking mountain views in all of Olympic National Park! Whether you’re here for a short visit or a day of adventure, this area is a must-see. From the parking lot, you’ll find a variety of Hurricane Ridge trails to explore, ranging in length and difficulty, so there’s something for everyone.

Keep reading for the best Hurricane Ridge trails, plus tips to help you plan your visit.

Getting to Hurricane Ridge

Hurricane Ridge is located just 18 miles outside of Port Angles and takes about 40 minutes to reach the parking lot from the city. The road is very windy and steep in some parts so be sure to take your time and don’t crowd other cars going slower than you. The road to Hurricane Ridge is open all summer and typically open Friday – Sunday in the winter, weather permitting. Before heading to the top, you can call 360-565-3131 for the current road status, or check on the official National Park website.

As of 2026, there is no visitor’s center at the top. It burnt down the Summer of 2023 and they have not yet start construction. There are bathrooms and a small information center at top where you can talk to a ranger if needed. There is a visitor’s center in Port Angeles, right after the Olympic National Park sign.

Sunrise Point

Sunrise Point is just a short 0.2 mile walk from the parking lot. Just because it is short, does not mean it is easy. The trail is very steep the entire way and gets steeper towards the end. Don’t let this deter you though, this short trail is definitely worth it! You’ll be rewarded with beautiful views the entire climb to Sunrise Point. Once you start your descent from Sunrise Point follow the trail to the right to continue on to the Cirque Rim Trail.

Cirque Rim Trail

The Cirque Rim Trail is an easy, paved loop that’s perfect if you’re looking for a quick and scenic walk. It’s only about 0.5 miles, so it doesn’t take long to complete. The trail is pretty flat and great for all ages, making it an ideal for anyone not wanting to gain elevation. Wildlife like deer and marmots are often spotted here, so keep your eyes peeled! Just be sure to give them plenty of space and enjoy watching from a distance.

Klahhane Ridge

Klahhane Ridge offers some of the most breathtaking views in Olympic National Park. From the ridge, you can see the Strait of Juan De Fuca to the North, the Olympic Mountains to the South. This trail is one of the longer and harder hikes at Hurricane Ridge, but definitely worth it! You can access the Klahhane Ridge Trail either from the Hurricane Ridge parking lot via the Sunrise Ridge route (around 8 miles total) or by taking the Switchback Trail (around 5.5 miles total), which starts at a parking area about halfway up the road to Hurricane Ridge.

If you plan on hiking Klahhane Ridge, checkout this article.

Hurricane Hill

Hurricane Hill is a good day hike that can be done in just a few hours. It is around 3 miles round trip and gains 700 ft elevation. The paved trails starts on the far side of the parking lot, past the visitor’s center. From the top of this trail you get views of north of Griff Peak, Vancouver Island, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and of course the Olympic Mountains.

Best Time to Visit Hurricane Ridge

The best time to visit Hurricane Ridge is early in the morning, especially during late spring through early fall. Arriving between 7–9 AM helps you avoid crowds, find parking more easily, and enjoy clearer mountain views before clouds roll in. Parking can fill up quickly, and the road may temporarily close once the lot is full, so early arrival helps you avoid crowds and delays. Summer weekends can get especially busy, so earlier is always better.

If you can’t make it in the morning, then aim for mid-day. We arrived around 3pm one day and had no issues entering the area or finding a parking spot.

Weather at Hurricane Ridge

What to Bring on the Trail

Water: Depending on how hot it is and how long of a hike, you should bring atleast 1-2 liters of water to stay hydrated. I prefer to carry a hydration bladder, they make it so much easier to stay hydrated on the trails without lugging around a massive water bottle. 

Hiking Poles: On the way up, it helps distribute your weight, on the way down, they provide stability and reduces the impact on your knees.

Hiking Boots:  If you enjoy hiking regularly, you should definitely invest in hiking boots or trail shoes. A good pair will offer you ankle support, protection from mud and streams and better tread for hiking all terrain. For trails that are mainly flat a good pair of tennis shoes will do but once you move into different trails and increasing elevation, hiking shoes are a must.

Bear Spray: One thing I hope I never need to use, but always have on hand! It’s not necessary on all hikes, but if you’re heading in bear country you should definitely have it easily accessible. 

Snacks: Depending on how long the hike is, I might just bring a few cliff bars, trail mix or fruit. For longer hikes I like to have something more substantial, such as a sandwich and some beef jerky. 

Hurricane Ridge Trails

Whether you’re looking for a quick stop to take in the views or a full day of hiking, Hurricane Ridge has something for everyone. Its stunning scenery, accessible trails, and variety of experiences make it a highlight of any Olympic National Park visit. Don’t miss the chance to explore this incredible mountain paradise.

Planning a trip to Olympic National Park? Be sure to check out these other articles for tips and ideas to make the most of your visit:

• Lake Crescent Hiking Guide: Best Trails & Tips
• 7 Days in Olympic National Park: A Complete Itinerary
• Spending a Week in Olympic National Park: Cost Breakdown
• Sol Duc Falls in Olympic National Park: Everything you Need to Know!