Surprisingly, after passing through the heavily trafficked Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center parking lot, few people were attempting the Hurricane Hill trail. This trail is wonderful for its views of the mountain range that forms part of Olympic National Park, the waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Vancouver Island.
The views are wonderfully expansive and from what I’ve seen in movies and pictures, I could almost be in Austria or Switzerland! The trail continues towards the north before making some switchbacks up to the peak. Along the way are signs that explain the background of the flora and fauna that inhabit this region as well as the geology of the mountains.
After the final switchback, an information placard at a clearing showcases several landmarks, like the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Vancouver Island, Port Angeles. Be weary of strong winds though, which is probably why this trail was named Hurricane Hill. After spending some time on the hill, head back to the trailhead on the same trail.
Wildlife sightings were quite common along the trail. I saw quite a few deer and the interaction of the marmot and the deer in the bottom right picture was calm and mutual.
Olympic National Park: Hurricane Hill
Start: Hurricane Hill parking lot (beyond the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center)
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Difficulty: moderate
Length: 3.2 miles RT
Danger: windy,
Exposure: open
Crowd Factor: moderate
Happy travels!
Cat
(hike completed in June 2016)
