Hurricane Ridge Road

Photo by G. Longenbaugh/NPS.

Hurricane Ridge Road This is the easiest way to reach beautiful panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and explore the subalpine ecosystem, just a 45-minute drive from Port Angeles. Drive carefully and keep an eye out for rocks and wildlife on the road! In winter, the road may be closed certain days (it is generally plowed on weekends as weather allows), and all vehicles are required to carry tire chains in case of icy road conditions.

The road to Hurricane Ridge leads up 17 miles (27.3 km) into the subalpine ecosystem of Olympic National Park, reaching an elevation of 5,242 feet (1,600 meters) at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center. Along the way, the Heart O' the Hills entrance station, campground and trailheads are five miles (8 km) up the road, and there are several scenic pullouts with spectacular views of the mountains, forests and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

The road may close with short notice due to rapidly changing weather conditions. Fog, falling rocks and wildlife along the road are potential hazards year round, and snow, avalanches and the plowing schedule affect winter opening. Drive safely and always check at the Visitor Center for the latest road and weather updates, or call 360-565-3131. It is very dangerous to stop your vehicle in the road to look at wildlife, so if you must stop, please use a pullout.