Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park - A Park that Truly Lives Up to Its Name Due to In climate Weather



Hurricane Ridge is the most easily accessed mountain area within Olympic National Park. In clear weather, fantastic views can be enjoyed throughoutthe year. Hurricane Ridge is located 17 miles south of Port Angeles onHurricane Ridge Road, off Mount Angeles Road.

The road is open throughout summer, and is scheduled to be open Friday through Sundayduring the winter months , weather permitting. Allvehicles must carry tire chains during the winter season. It isadvised to check the weather forecast and road accessibility beforetraveling. In the winter, over 75 mile per hour gusts of wind canattack the ridge, lending to the name "Hurricane.'' The area getsapproximately 30-35 feet of snowfall annually that lingers even into theearly summer months.

The nearest campground to Hurricane Ridge is Heart O' the Hills, 12milesnorth of Hurricane Ridge, between Port Angeles and the Ridge. Openyear-round, Heart O' the Hills has 105 campsites in the old-growthforest. The city of Port Angeles is just 17 miles north of the park.Off-site lodging can be found through the Port AngelesChamber of Commerce website.

When getting started at Hurricane Ridge it is best to stop by the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center located immediately before the end of the road. The center provides brochures, maps, snacks, and safety tips regarding your stay in the area. The center is open daily during the summer season, throughout the year whenever Hurricane Ridge is open to the public.

The Ridge has a number of hiking trails with a wide array of terrain. From steep trails that descend into lakes and valleys to ridge top paths, the park has something for all levels of hikers to enjoy. Access to a variety of trails exists along Obstruction Point Road as it branches off right before the visitor center. This road is open from July 4 through October 15 weather and snow permitting.

The park can be enjoyed throughout the year and even during the winter months. Snow enthusiasts can enjoy the winter scenery, while taking advantage of such outdoor sporting opportunities as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and sledding. There are ranger-guided snowshoewalks offered on the weekends and provide a popular way to explore and learn about the Ridge's winter scenery and environment. Weather permitting; the HurricaneRidge Winter Sports Club operates two rope tows and a Poma lift.

Throughout the spring, wildflowers can be seen covering the ground of the subalpine meadows. Black tail deer are often spotted grazing in the distance. Magnificent sunrises and sunsets on clear days provide panoramic views of the park and vast scenery.

Pets and bicycles are not permitted on paved or dirt trails. All hikers and campers are advised to remain on designated trails and not to feed any wildlife. One mile beyond the visitor center lays restrooms, water, and paved trails and tables. During the winter, visitors may picnic upstairs in the visitor center.

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