Hurricane Hill

Hurricane Hill was my first introduction to the Pacific Northwest. I am talking ‘straight off the airplane and straight to the trailhead’. What a fantastic way to become acquainted with Olympic National Park.

The trail winds through towering spruce and Douglas firs and eventually emerges onto Hurricane Ridge. Follow the ridge line trail and you will be at Hurricane Hill. There is a brief, more steep portion towards the end that may leave you a bit out of breath as you reach the summit of 5,757 feet. 

Hurricane Hill has phenomenal vistas in every direction. You can see mountain after mountain after mountain in multiple directions. Look toward the north and you will see a beautiful view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and even further north you can see the land mass of Canada. 

As a frequent hiker in a more arid desert climate, it was beautiful to see all of the trees, snow, and delicate flowers that lined the trail. The Spreading Flox and White Avalanche Lilies were especially pretty. There was also plenty of wildlife to see, including a herd of deer, chipmunks, and grouse. 

Difficulty: Mild to moderate related to being at a higher elevation.

Trail Stats:  3.4 miles, out and back, 826 feet elevation gain.

Trail Finding: Easy.

Conditions: Packed dirt.

Would I Repeat This: You bet.

Parking: Yes.

Timing: Intermittent shade initially, then exposed most of the last part of the trail. This trail is in the mountains, be sure to check snow conditions prior to departure.

Downloaded Map: Not necessary, but it is always nice to know how much longer.

Fees: Yes. This hike is within Olympic National Park. You will need your National Parks pass or to pay the daily entrance fee.

Trails: Lake Crescent, Madison and Marymere Falls, and more.