Klahhane Ridge Trail + Sunrise Point

To hike along Klahhane Ridge on a clear day is to see some of the best views in Olympic National Park. This popular trail begins at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center, and the early crowds may remind you of the nearby Hurricane Hill Trail. You'll soon leave these folks behind, however, as you move farther away from the visitor center and out on the ridge that leads toward the base of the dominant, 6,454-foot Mount Angeles.

Begin with the High Ridge Trail that leaves from the parking lot and proceeds for a quarter of a mile to a junction with the Sunrise Point Trail. Take this short spur to the left to reach Sunrise Point, where you'll have stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Vancouver Island, and Port Angeles to the north and the Olympic peaks to the south. Stay here long enough to enjoy the view, but keep in mind that the views only improve as you move along the ridge. When you're ready, return to the junction with the High Ridge Trail and take a hard left to proceed across the slope and onto the Klahhane Ridge Trail.

As the trail cuts under Sunrise Point and meets the ridge, proceed through meadows that are filled with wildflowers in the summer. The trail rises and falls along the ridge, keeping mostly to the southeast facing slope. Deer and marmots frequent the ridge, as much for the human attention as for the lush meadow habitat. In addition to the southern views of the Olympic peaks, you'll also see the North Cascades to the east as you look out over Hurricane Ridge Road winding beneath Mount Angeles.

To reach Klahhane Ridge, continue on the trail as it cuts across the southeastern base of Mount Angeles. You'll come to a trail junction just east of the mountain: heading north leads to Heather Park and the Heart O' the Hills Trailhead, so stay right to hike a little farther on the ridge. The trail stays on the ridge for about 1.5 miles before dropping down to Lake Angeles. Unless you are looking for a great workout on your way back, the beginning of this descent is a great spot to turn around and prepare yourself for the west facing views on your return hike.