Snowshoeing on Hurricane Ridge / NPS

Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park will kick off its winter operations on November 29, 2024. Weather permitting, the road will be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through March 30, 2025, except for Christmas Day (December 25). Additionally, the area will have extended access for key holiday periods: December 20–January 5, January 17–20, and February 14–17, 2025.

Temporary restroom trailers and the visitor contact station, installed in 2023, will continue to serve visitors this winter. Park crews have spent the fall weatherproofing these facilities in preparation for the anticipated harsher conditions expected from this year’s La Niña weather pattern.

Visitor Services and Safety

The visitor contact station will have intermittent staffing Fridays through Sundays. Visitors should plan to use their vehicles as warming areas and come prepared with extra food, water, dry clothing, blankets, or sleeping bags. There will be no indoor warming areas, food services, potable water, or gear rentals available this winter.

• Road Access: Hurricane Ridge Road will open at 9:00 a.m. (weather permitting) and close to uphill traffic at 4:00 p.m. All vehicles must exit the Heart O’ the Hills entrance station by 5:00 p.m.
• Winter Conditions: Snowstorms, strong winds, and sudden blizzards may delay or close the road. For real-time updates, call the Road & Weather line at (360) 565-3131 or check the park’s website.
• Parking: The road may temporarily close when the parking lot is full, reopening as space becomes available. Visitors are encouraged to park efficiently.
• Tire Chains: All vehicles, even those with four-wheel drive, are required to carry tire chains when traveling above the Heart O’ the Hills entrance station.

Winter Activities at Hurricane Ridge

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

Hurricane Ridge offers a range of terrain for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, from gentle meadows near the visitor center to challenging backcountry routes. Those venturing beyond the immediate area should be prepared for steep terrain and potential avalanche risks.

• Avalanche Awareness: Stay updated on avalanche conditions through the Northwest Avalanche Center at nwac.us. Always check their website and the latest conditions posted at the visitor contact station before heading out.

Ranger-Led Snowshoe Walks

Starting December 21, ranger-guided snowshoe walks will be offered at 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. These beginner-friendly walks last 1.5 hours, covering less than a mile with a 130-foot elevation gain.

• Details: Snowshoes and instructions are provided. Walks are limited to 20 participants, and spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Meet at the visitor contact station in the Hurricane Ridge parking area at 1:00 p.m. Walks may be canceled due to safety or operational priorities. For updates or accommodations, call park staff at (360) 565-3130.

Exploring Beyond Hurricane Ridge

Olympic National Park offers a variety of lowland winter recreation opportunities, including rainforest hikes and coastal exploration. Many park areas remain open year-round, though some facilities and roads close for the season.

Rainforests

The Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center will close for the winter on December 1, 2024, but will reopen on weekends starting March 1, 2025 (9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.). Trails, campgrounds, and roads in the area remain open throughout the winter. Check the park website for updates on other rainforest areas like the Queets and Quinault Valleys.

Pacific Coast

Coastal destinations like Kalaloch, Mora, and Ozette are open year-round, weather permitting. Visitors should check tide predictions via NOAA (Tides and Currents) before venturing out. Storms can make beach hiking dangerous with large waves and deep coastal streams.

Park Roads and Campgrounds

• Closed Roads: Deer Park Road, Obstruction Point Road, and Hurricane Hill Road are closed to vehicles for the season. Other park roads may close unexpectedly due to weather or road conditions. Call the Road & Weather line at (360) 565-3131 for the latest updates.
• Campgrounds: Some campgrounds are closed for the winter, while others offer limited amenities. Visit the park’s website for current campground status.

Reminder: Store all food and scented items securely in vehicles or animal-proof lockers to prevent wildlife encounters. Never leave food, dishes, or garbage unattended.

Recreating Responsibly

Whether you’re snowshoeing, skiing, or hiking, please follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:

1. Know Before You Go: Check the park’s website for the latest conditions and closures.
2. Know Your Limits: Monitor your energy levels and the weather. It’s always okay to turn back and try again another day.
3. Pack It In, Pack It Out: Bring all trash out with you, as trash services may be limited.
4. Be Inclusive: Help make Olympic National Park a safe and welcoming space for people of all identities and abilities.

For more information, visit nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/hurricane-ridge-in-winter.htm.