Hurricane Hill Trail

The hike up to Hurricane Hill is one of the most popular endeavors in this section of Olympic National Park, but you shouldn't let that attention get in the way of a gorgeous walk to this prime viewpoint. This hike is an excellent choice if you are structuring a few events for your day, as it can easily be completed in a few hours; likewise, the wide trail and short distance makes the trail ideal for families with young hikers and you do get some reprieve from the crowds of Hurricane Ridge.

If you visit in the summer, wildflowers burst throughout the meadow on the 1.5-mile hike to the top: watch for Flett's groundsel, Indian paintbrush, and Scotch bluebells among others. The deer in the area are unfortunately tame (please don't encourage them with food), but don't be surprised to catch glimpses of less commonly seen wildlife such as elk, mountain goats, and even bears. The views from the top of this 5,757-foot hill are almost an unfair reward for such a pleasant walk up: you'll have fantastic perspectives of Mount Walkinshaw, and Mount Clark, Crystal Peak and Chimney Peak, and, of course, Mount Olympus. The views into the Elwha River Valley are equally stunning. To the north you'll see the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and on clear days you may see Mount Baker to the northeast. Spend some time getting oriented to these spectacular points before you head back down to continue your exploration of Olympic National Park.

Note that this trail also makes an exceptional snowshoe route in the winter!