Winter Activities at Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park, WA 2024-2025
At over 5,000 ft (1,524 m) in elevation, Hurricane Ridge is the premiere spot for winter fun in the Olympic Peninsula
Best time: December–March
Whether you prefer skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, tubing, or just a cup of hot chocolate in your hand, the Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area has the fix. Operated by a non-profit winter sports club, Hurricane Ridge is perfect for a family getaway. And with 400+ inches of snowfall per year, there is no shortage of powder to get your glide on.
With two rope tows and a poma lift, you'll have no problem exploring the ten trails and terrain park that Hurricane Ridge has to offer. The ski season here usually runs from December through March, but for the best conditions, plan to visit in January or February.
Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area lies some 17 miles (27 km) south of Port Angeles at the end of Hurricane Ridge Road. Administered by Olympic National Park, the road up to the ski hill is only open Friday through Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm during the winter season. Tire chains plus an entrance fee are required for any vehicle heading up to the ridge. The ski area is open Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am to 4 pm. For current conditions and more information, be sure to check out Olympic National Park's website. They even maintain a webcam to view the area live!
Practical info
When is a good time to visit Hurricane Ridge for winter sports?
Hurricane Ridge is ideal for winter sports activities, such as skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. December through March is the period when Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area is open. January or February is the best time to visit for optimum weather conditions. More than 400 inches of snowfall typically fall annually, turning the Ridge into a winter wonderland for cold-weather enthusiasts.
What is the location of the Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area?
The Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area is based at the Olympic National Park, located in Washington. It is situated at the end of the Hurricane Ridge Road, approximately 17 miles (27 km) south of Port Angeles. The road up to the ski hill is only open during winter season Fridays through Sundays, 9 am to 4 pm. Visitors must PAY for entry and take their tire chains, as these are essential to gain access to the Ridge.
What winter sports are available at Hurricane Ridge?
Visitors can indulge in various winter sports and activities at Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area, including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing among others. Ten trails and a terrain park for skiing and snowboarding are available. Snowshoers can freely explore all the snow-covered trails, while experienced hikers can venture beyond the established trails on the natural terrain to discover remote locations and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
What is the number of available trails at Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area?
Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area has ten different trails and a terrain park for skiing and snowboarding. The terrain park is suitable for people interested in trying out freestyle tricks and jumps, with several features such as railboxes and jumps. All the snow-covered trails, which experienced snowshoers may explore beyond the established trails, are open to snowshoers.
Do vehicles that go to Hurricane Ridge pay an entrance fee?
A mandatory tire chain requirement and entrance fee apply to every vehicle that goes to Hurricane Ridge. Visiting Hurricane Ridge means purchasing a Discover Pass, providing access to all Washington State Parks instead of paying an entrance fee. We recommend buying the Discover Pass online before visiting the Ridge, but it is also available at local vendors and Olympic National Forest or Olympic National Park Visitor Centers.