Hurricane Hill Trail

The trailhead for the Hurricane Hill Trail is located at the end of Hurricane Ridge Road, past the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center, within Olympic National Park. There is a dedicated parking area at the trailhead. Due to the trail's popularity, especially during peak times, arriving early is highly recommended to secure a parking spot.

The Hurricane Hill Trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It is paved for its entire length, making it one of the most accessible trails in Olympic National Park. The initial sections have a gentle grade, but the latter half, closer to the summit, becomes significantly steeper with sections up to 15-20%. It is suitable for families and beginners, though assistance may be needed for wheelchairs on the steeper parts. It's a rewarding hike for most fitness levels.

The entire Hurricane Hill Trail is paved with asphalt. While it offers a smooth surface, be aware that the grade varies, with some sections being quite steep, especially as you approach the summit. You'll encounter switchbacks on the ascent.

The Hurricane Hill Trail is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views. From the Hurricane Hill summit, you can enjoy 360-degree vistas of the interior Olympic Mountains, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Port Angeles, and even Vancouver Island in Canada. The trail also traverses beautiful subalpine terrain with open forests, low shrubs, and golden grasses. In summer, especially July, you'll see vibrant subalpine wildflowers.

The trail offers good opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for Olympic marmots, which are often seen in the area, as well as deer. Various bird species also inhabit the subalpine environment.

The best time to hike the Hurricane Hill Trail is typically from late spring through early fall (June to October) when the trail is free of snow and wildflowers are in bloom. However, it is also a popular destination for snowshoeing in winter due to its relatively low avalanche danger and significant elevation head start.

The Hurricane Hill Trail is primarily an out-and-back route. You hike to the Hurricane Hill summit and return the same way.

Yes, the Hurricane Hill Trail can serve as a starting or ending point for longer hikes. It intersects with sections of the Hurricane Hill Nature Trail, Little River Trail, and the Elwha to Hurricane Hill Trail, offering options for extended adventures into the Elwha River Valley.

No, dogs are generally not permitted on the Hurricane Hill Trail itself, as it is located within Olympic National Park. National Park regulations typically restrict pets to paved roads, parking areas, and campgrounds, but not on unpaved trails to protect wildlife and natural resources.

While there isn't a specific permit for the Hurricane Hill Trail itself, you will need to pay the entrance fee for Olympic National Park to access the Hurricane Ridge area where the trailhead is located. Information on current fees and passes can be found on the official NPS website.

The Hurricane Hill Trail is approximately 3.2 to 3.4 miles roundtrip. With an average hiking pace, it typically takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete the hike, allowing time to enjoy the views at the summit.