The Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge in Olympic National Park, once a bustling hub for visitors, has undergone significant changes due to a fire in May 2023. This iconic structure, perched at an elevation of 5,242 feet, offered panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and served as a gateway to various recreational activities. Despite the recent setbacks, the area continues to attract nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This guide provides up-to-date information on the current status, amenities, and access to the Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge.
What is the Current Status of Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge?

The Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge in Olympic National Park has been significantly impacted by a fire that occurred in May 2023. As a result, the main lodge building has been demolished, and many of the services previously offered are no longer available. However, efforts are underway to provide essential amenities to visitors through temporary facilities.
Temporary Facilities
- Restroom trailers
- Visitor contact station
Unavailable Services
- Gift shop
- Café
- Indoor seating areas
Despite these changes, the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Hurricane Ridge remain accessible to visitors.
What Amenities are Available at Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge?

While the main lodge building is no longer operational, several amenities are still available to visitors at Hurricane Ridge:
- Restrooms: Temporary trailers equipped with restroom facilities are available for visitor use.
- Visitor Information: A contact station is set up in the temporary trailers, providing essential information and assistance to visitors.
- Outdoor Recreation: The area continues to offer various outdoor activities, including:
- Hiking trails (e.g., Hurricane Hill, Cirque Rim, Big Meadow, High Ridge)
- Snowshoeing (seasonal)
- Cross-country skiing (seasonal)
- Downhill skiing (seasonal)
- Sledding (seasonal)
It’s important to note that these outdoor activities do not rely on the lodge’s indoor facilities and remain accessible to visitors.
What are the Operating Hours for Hurricane Ridge?
The operating hours for Hurricane Ridge vary depending on the season:
Summer Season
- Open daily
- No indoor facilities available
- Trails and outdoor areas accessible
Winter Season
- Open Friday through Sunday, plus certain holidays
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- All vehicles must exit the Heart O’ the Hills entrance station by 5:00 PM
- Subject to temporary closures due to snowfall or full parking lot
Season | Days Open | Hours |
---|---|---|
Summer | Daily | All day |
Winter | Fri-Sun, Holidays | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
Are There Any Dining Options at Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge?
Due to the fire and subsequent closure of the lodge, there are currently no dining facilities available at Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge.
Previous Dining Options (No Longer Available)
- Café
- Gift shop with snacks
Visitor Recommendations
- Bring your own food and snacks
- Pack plenty of water
- Prepare for limited food options in the area
How Can I Access Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge?
Accessing Hurricane Ridge requires careful planning, especially during the winter months. Here’s what you need to know:
Road Conditions
- Paved road to Hurricane Ridge
- Subject to closure due to weather conditions
- Winter requirement: All vehicles must carry tire chains
Parking Information
- Limited parking available
- Parking lot can fill quickly, especially on peak winter days
- Temporary road closures possible when parking lot is full
Accessibility
- Limited accessibility due to lack of indoor facilities
- Temporary trailers provide basic amenities
- Ongoing efforts to improve accessibility
Transportation Services
- Clallam Transit offers a special summer route between downtown Port Angeles and Hurricane Ridge
- Winter transportation services may be limited
What Activities Can I Enjoy at Hurricane Ridge?
Despite the closure of the main lodge, Hurricane Ridge offers a wealth of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy:
- Hiking:
- Hurricane Hill Trail (3.2 miles round trip)
- Cirque Rim Trail (0.5 miles round trip)
- Big Meadow Trail (0.5 miles round trip)
-
High Ridge Trail (1.6 miles round trip)
-
Winter Sports (seasonal):
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing
- Downhill skiing
-
Sledding
-
Wildlife Viewing:
-
Opportunities to spot Olympic marmots, black-tailed deer, and various bird species
-
Scenic Drives:
-
The road to Hurricane Ridge offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca
-
Photography:
- Panoramic vistas provide excellent photo opportunities
Remember to check current conditions and bring appropriate gear for your chosen activities.
What Should I Bring for a Visit to Hurricane Ridge?
Given the limited facilities currently available at Hurricane Ridge, it’s essential to come prepared. Here’s a checklist of items to consider:
- [ ] Plenty of water
- [ ] Snacks and packed meals
- [ ] Sunscreen and sunglasses
- [ ] Warm layers of clothing (even in summer)
- [ ] Sturdy hiking boots
- [ ] Rain gear
- [ ] Camera
- [ ] Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- [ ] Map of the area
- [ ] First aid kit
- [ ] Tire chains (required in winter)
How Can I Stay Updated on Hurricane Ridge Conditions?
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Hurricane Ridge, it’s crucial to stay informed about current conditions:
- Official Website: Check the Olympic National Park website for the most up-to-date information.
- Visitor Center: Contact the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles for current conditions and advisories.
- Road Status: Call the Road & Weather Hotline at 360-565-3131 for current road conditions.
- Social Media: Follow Olympic National Park’s official social media accounts for real-time updates.
- Local News: Monitor local news outlets for any weather-related alerts or park announcements.
By staying informed, you can make the most of your visit to Hurricane Ridge, even with the current limitations of the day lodge facilities.