Project SummaryOlympic National Park is in the first stage of planning for a new facility on Hurricane Ridge. The project is in the conceptual, pre-design phase. The original lodge, a 12,201-square-foot structure built in 1952, was lost to a fire in May 2023. The lodge was undergoing rehabilitation at the time. A third-party investigation into the origin and cause of the fire found no definitive cause. The popular facility supported concessions, education, and emergency operations in Olympic National Park’s subalpine zone.
Public Listening SessionTo ensure the design for the new facility meets visitor needs for generations to come, a public listening session was held on Jan. 14 at the Field Arts and Events Hall in Port Angeles, Washington. Comments were also collected on the Planning, Environment, and Public Comment website: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/ DayLodge_ListeningSession Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the project status?The Hurricane Ridge construction project is currently in the conceptual, pre-design phase. A design contract was awarded to Anderson Hallas Architects, P.C. on September 19, 2025. Geotechnical surveys were performed on October 15, 2025. The results of these surveys, which are currently being analyzed, will guide the design of a safe and resilient foundation. What is the budget for the project? Has it been funded?The final design for the building will determine the project budget. The project is eligible for Fiscal Year 2025 Disaster Supplemental funds. When will construction start?At the earliest, construction may start in 2028. Before construction can begin, a series of steps must be completed, including design, compliance, and construction contract solicitation and award. When will construction be complete?Construction on Hurricane Ridge is limited to a narrow, weather-dependent window from May through September. The selected contractor will likely need two to three years to complete the project. What will the new facility include?The National Park Service is currently assessing what services and features the facility should include, while prioritizing emergency operations and visitor services. Where will the new facility be?The new facility will be in the same location as the original lodge. Suitable building sites on Hurricane Ridge are limited by the steep terrain and existing infrastructure, such as the wastewater system. Can you describe the project process?The construction project phases are: pre-design, schematic design, design development, final design and construction documents, funding approval, associated environmental compliance, solicitation for construction contract, contract award, and construction. |
Last updated: January 24, 2026