Hurricane Ridge (winter)

Getting there

Drive US-101 to Port Angeles and then 17 miles up Hurricane Ridge Road (aka Heart o' the Hills Parkway) to the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center.

snowshoe routes

The meadows surrounding the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center offers opportunities for several different snowshoe routes.  Meander along the road beyond visitor center as far as the picnic area, or even down along the Wolf Creek Trail or Obstruction Point Road.  Or simply wander close to the lodge, enjoying the views and taking photos.

Notes

• The road to Hurricane Ridge can be closed in the mornings for snow removal in winter. Check current snow and road conditions before leaving town. The Twitter Feed “Hurricane Ridge NPS” provides road opening status. Keep your cell phone on to receive Olympic National Park provided Emergency Weather Alerts via the Amber Alert feature of smart phones.
• All vehicles are required to carry tire chains when traveling above the Heart O' the Hills entrance station during the winter season. This requirement applies to all vehicles (including four-wheel-drive), regardless of tire type or weather conditions.
• Conditions can go to blinding white out in minutes via fast moving cloud cover or driving wind.
• For an Easy difficulty trip, avoid the steep and icy slopes on the Hurricane Hill and Sunrise Ridge routes.  These sections tend to have dangerous cornices.

• Suitable Activities: Backcountry Skiing, Snowshoeing
• Snowshoeing Category: Basic
• Seasons: January, February, March, April, December
• Weather: View weather forecast
• View avalanche forecast.

• Difficulty: M1 Intremediate Ski, Easy
• Length: 5.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 600 ft
• High Point: 5,200 ft

• Land Manager: Olympic National Park
• Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fee
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 40
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12