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Hike the PNW, Enjoy finding new hikes and re-discovering old favorites.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Hurricane Ridge - Olympic National Park | Alpine Snow Hike | ModerateShoreline North/185th Light Rail Station , Shoreline, WA
At an elevation of 5,242 feet, Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park is one of the most spectacular places to snowshoe in Washington state. On a clear day it is among the most beautiful places in the state; the stunning 360 degree views include Mount Olympus in all her winter splendor, the interior of the Olympics, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Canada, and the Cascades. Weather here changes fast, and storms can develop quickly in this area, with winds racing over the ridge top. Be prepared for varying weather conditions. Recommendations include using Microspikes and/or Snowshoes, starting early, and dressing in layers.
This event is weather dependent and may be cancelled or modified in case of severe weather. Initially everyone will be put on a waitlist with drivers moved first to going and others moved as space opens up.
Hike Stats
Length: 6 - 8 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Route Type: Out & Back
Tread Type: Compacted Snow and Ice
Location: Olympic Peninsula > Northern CoastSchedule
5:00 AM – Arrive at the Park and Ride, split into carpools
5:10 AM – Depart from the Park and Ride
5:30 AM - Take the Edmonds - Kingston Ferry
7:30 AM – Coffee and Breakfast stop at Longhouse Market & Deli
8:30 AM – Arrive at the entrance to Hurricane Ridge Road
(Wait in the car line here for the mountain road to be opened to traffic, typically around 9 AM)
10 AM – Arrive at the Trailhead
4 PM – Back at the trailhead, latest
4:10 PM – Drive back to the Park and Ride location via the Kingston to Edmonds Ferry, optional stop for Dinner on the way. Directions
8 - 9 PM – Back at the Park and Ride LocationLinks
Driving Directions
Snowshoeing Routes
Hurricane Ridge Road in Winter
Weather Forecast for Hurricane Ridge
WTA
All TrailsRoute
Beginners can wander the lower-level ridge lines and meadows, while more ambitious snowshoers can go for Hurricane Hill or neighboring trails. We will avoid avalanche prone terrain such as cornices, gullies and steep lee slopes.The Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge was lost to a fire in 2023. There is no indoor warming area, food service, or potable water available. Gear rentals such as snowshoes and skis are not available here. Per the Park Service, visitors should be prepared to use their vehicles as a warming area and pack extra food, water, dry clothing, and blankets or sleeping bags.
Trailhead Location
Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center
Hurricane Ridge Rd,
Port Angeles, WA 98363
GPS: 47.96939, -123.49848Initial Meeting Point for Carpooling
Shoreline North/185th Light Rail Station Parking Garage
710 NE 185th Street
Shoreline, WA 98155
Passenger Drop Off / Pick up Area
Adjacent to 8th Avenue Northeast to the east of the Parking Garage
GPS: 47.76386, -122.32180Rideshare Fee
Each rider should pay $40 (Cash or Venmo, for a 3 passenger vehicle) to their driver for transportation including Gas, Tolls, Ferry and Park Entrance fee. Pay your driver before you enter their car! Non-paying riders will not be accommodated.Note for Drivers
All vehicles, including 4-wheel-drive vehicles, are required to carry tire chains (or Alternative Traction Devices as defined by Washington State Patrol) on Hurricane Ridge Road - a 17 mile winding paved and groomed mountain road connecting Port Angeles to Hurricane Ridge. Drivers should know how to use chains or other traction devices. 4-wheel drive vehicles are not mandated. 2WD vehicles are required to have their tire chains on while driving on this road, while 4WD vehicles have a recommendation of keeping the chains on. High clearance vehicles are not necessary.Logistics
Hikers can meet the group at the Park and Ride location or directly at the trailhead per the schedule above. Be prepared to spend 6 hours on the trail. The average pace is expected to be around 2 miles per hour with breaks for food, water and scenery. The times posted above are estimates. Do not have any plans for immediately after the hike. Bring enough water and food to last you the day. Pets are not allowed on National Park trails.Parking Permit
A National Park Pass or America the Beautiful Pass (one per vehicle) is required to enter Olympic National Park.Things to Pack
Ten Essential items that every hiker should carry.
Be prepared for cold weather. Microspikes and/or snowshoes are required. Pack Navigation, Hydration, Nutrition, Trekking Poles with snow baskets, Sun Protection, Insulation Layers and thick Gloves. Bring a plastic bag to place your hiking boots in after the hike and have a change of clothes, shoes and socks available. Pack and prepare as if you were hiking alone.Safety Disclaimer
Seattle Hiking Community organizers are volunteers. We come prepared to hike but assume no liability for your safety getting to or from the trailhead or on the trail during the hike. In case of injury, accident, illness, or other incapacity, hikers must pay for their own medical and/or evacuation expenses, whether or not the hiker has specifically authorized them. Please assess your abilities before signing up. Attendees assume all risks. Organizers are indemnified.RSVP Etiquette
Please read the entire Event Description above and browse the links provided. RSVP to this event only if you are committed to attending. Respond to all questions clearly when signing-up in order to be considered. Late cancellations and No-Shows are noted and will impact your ability to attend future events with us.
