The Little River Trail to Hurricane Hill in Olympic National Park is a demanding 16-mile roundtrip hike that offers stunning views of old-growth forests, waterfalls, and unique geological features. This trail, starting at 1,100 feet elevation and climbing to 5,600 feet, provides hikers with a diverse landscape ranging from lush river valleys to windswept alpine meadows. The journey typically takes about 9 hours to complete, making it a full-day excursion for most hikers.
What is the Length and Elevation Gain of the Little River Trail to Hurricane Hill?
The Little River Trail to Hurricane Hill presents a significant challenge to hikers:
- Total Distance: 16 miles roundtrip
- Starting Elevation: 1,100 feet
- Ending Elevation: 5,600 feet (at Hurricane Hill Trail)
- Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 4,500 feet
- Total Elevation Change: 4,238 feet up and 4,247 feet down (roundtrip)
This substantial elevation change contributes to the trail’s difficulty and the time required to complete the hike.
What Are the Notable Waypoints Along the Trail?
As hikers progress along the Little River Trail to Hurricane Hill, they’ll encounter several noteworthy features:
- Well-built bridges crossing streams and rivers
- Old-growth forest sections with towering trees
- Historical artifacts, including a metal spiral that once supported wooden water pipes
- Large basalt outcroppings, some featuring caves
- Overhanging ferns and mosses, creating a lush, primeval atmosphere
- Numerous waterfalls cascading down the mountainside
- The transition from river valley to alpine meadows near Hurricane Hill
These waypoints not only serve as milestones for hikers but also offer unique opportunities for photography and nature observation.
How Challenging is the Terrain and Trail Condition?
The Little River Trail to Hurricane Hill is considered a challenging route due to several factors:
- Terrain Variety: The trail includes smooth walking paths interspersed with sections featuring roots, rocks, and potentially muddy clay.
- Elevation Changes: Frequent uphill and downhill sections contribute to the physical demands of the hike.
- Trail Length: At 16 miles roundtrip, the sheer distance is a significant factor in the trail’s difficulty.
- Time Commitment: With an average completion time of 9 hours, hikers must be prepared for a full day of strenuous activity.
- Weather Variability: Conditions can change rapidly, especially as hikers ascend to higher elevations.
| Trail Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Terrain | Mixed (smooth paths, roots, rocks, potential mud) |
| Length | 16 miles roundtrip |
| Average Time | 9 hours |
| Elevation Gain | 4,500 feet |
Hikers should be in good physical condition and come prepared with appropriate gear, ample water, and food for a full day on the trail.
What Scenic Views and Features Can Hikers Expect?
The Little River Trail to Hurricane Hill offers a diverse array of scenic views and natural features:
- River Views: The trail follows the Little River for portions of the hike, offering serene water scenes and the soothing sounds of flowing water.
- Waterfalls: Multiple waterfalls dot the landscape, providing picturesque stops along the journey.
- Old-Growth Forest: Hikers will pass through sections of ancient forest, with massive trees creating a cathedral-like atmosphere.
- Geological Features: Large basalt outcroppings and potential cave formations add interest to the landscape.
- Flora Diversity: The trail showcases a wide variety of plant life, from towering conifers to delicate ferns and mosses.
- Mushroom Varieties: Depending on the season, hikers may encounter an abundance of different mushroom species.
- Alpine Meadows: As the trail approaches Hurricane Hill, it opens up into windswept meadows characteristic of the area’s high-elevation environment.
- Panoramic Vistas: The higher portions of the trail, especially near Hurricane Hill, offer expansive views of the surrounding Olympic Mountains and potentially the Strait of Juan de Fuca on clear days.
How Should Hikers Prepare for the Little River Trail to Hurricane Hill?
Given the challenging nature of this hike, proper preparation is crucial:
- Physical Conditioning: Train for long-distance hiking and significant elevation gain.
- Gear:
- Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
- Bring trekking poles for stability on uneven terrain
- Pack layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions
- Supplies:
- Carry plenty of water (at least 3 liters per person)
- Pack high-energy snacks and a substantial lunch
- Include a first-aid kit and emergency supplies
- Navigation:
- Bring a detailed topographic map and compass
- Consider using a GPS device as a backup
- Timing:
- Start early in the day to ensure completion before dark
- Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before setting out
- Permits: Verify if any permits are required for hiking or parking in Olympic National Park
By thoroughly preparing and respecting the challenges of the trail, hikers can safely enjoy the remarkable journey from the Little River Trail to Hurricane Hill in Olympic National Park.