Mother Nature was showing off. Standing there, gazing over the valley below, splattered like a canvass with Autumn colors of red, orange, and yellow, and gawking breathlessly at the Olympic Mountain Range in the distance, I felt tears of happiness gently slide down my cheeks. The blue sky was a striking contrast to the snow-capped mountain peaks and huge granite cliffs. A gentle cool breeze rustled through the Fall leaves, and the silence, oh the blessed silence of tranquility. It inspired me to meditate. So, I followed a little trail to the perfect spot and found myself a place to sit and relish in the magnificence of the scenery around me.
Getting There
Trees in the Olympic National Forest
I decided to take advantage of the beautiful Fall weather and head out alone on my motorcycle. As a native Washingtonian, I knew our 70 degree days were numbered. It may have been my last hurrah before putting my bike away for the Winter months. It took me almost six hours from my home in Ocean Park, Washington to reach Hurricane Ridge because there is no direct route. But the winding curves and small charming towns just added to the adventure. I kept wondering how it was possible that I had never been there before. I’m still day-dreaming about the beautiful view.
Steep Incline and Twisting Roadways
Me and my Harley Davidson
The last 15 miles are steep and winding, so you should proceed with caution. You won’t reach a speed much over 30 mph. There is lots of evidence of falling rocks, and I had to make a sudden stop to avoid hitting a deer and her young fawn. Fortunately, there are many places to pull over and let others pass and take in the picturesque landscape. I think my camera clicking finger was more sore than my clutching hand, but it’s a nice problem to have. I couldn’t stop taking pictures, but none of them do the place justice. It is a view you must simply experience for yourself.
Things to Do
The view of Hood Canal from Hurricane Ridge
As part of the Olympic National Park, there are a plethora of fun recreational activities available for all types of nature lovers. Camping, hiking, and bicycling seem to be the favorites. I also saw many vehicles weighed down with kayaks. I wish that I had visited during the summer months and went camping. Someone told me that Deer Park Campground has a view even better than that of Hurricane Ridge, but it’s not motorcycle friendly. It’s definitely on my list to visit next year.
The Visitor Center
The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center has all the usual things. There is an interpretive center with a theater and many fascinating photos. Food and drinks are available at the little café. I ate outside on a picnic table where I could enjoy the view. They also have restrooms, walking tours, and a helpful staff to answer all of your questions.
Mt. Olympus is the highest mountain of the Olympic Mountain Range, at just under 8,000 feet, but spectacular never the less. Her majesty touched me and made me feel small, in the most pleasant way. If you follow a trail up behind the visitor center, you can see Hood Canal on the other side. The result is that the mountains and sea seem to join forces at Hurricane Ridge to create a genuine national treasure with a stunning view and plenty of recreational opportunities.