Morning at Hurricane Ridge

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During our recent trip to Washington, we hiked the Hurricane Hill Trail via Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park. The 3.4-mile out-and-back trail is considered moderate in difficulty, but the effort was more than worth it. We started our hike on a warm and sunny morning, surrounded by panoramic views and alpine air.

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Alpine Beauty All Around

Arctic lupine

The trail quickly opened up to wide vistas of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys. Wildflowers lined the path, and the distant mountains stretched on in every direction.

Chipmunk

The weather was ideal—clear skies and a light breeze kept us cool as we made our way up the ridge.

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Chickadees and Nuthatches

Chestnut-backed Chickadee

Not long into the hike, we heard the cheerful calls of Chestnut-backed Chickadees.

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A couple of Red-breasted Nuthatches also made an appearance, climbing tree trunks with their signature zig-zag pattern. Their tiny size and energetic movements always bring a smile to our faces.

Red-breasted Nuthatch

A Flurry of Pine Siskins

Pine Siskin

As we reached a slightly more open area, we noticed a flock of Pine Siskins darting through the trees.

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Their high-pitched calls echoed through the still morning air, and we watched as they foraged and fluttered between branches.

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A Creeper in the Bark

Brown Creeper

A quiet but fascinating sighting came when we noticed a Brown Creeper, expertly climbing up a tree trunk in a spiraling motion. Its camouflaged coloring made it tough to spot at first, but once we did, we stood still and watched its graceful, steady movements.

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A Jay Among the Pines

Canada Jay

About halfway through the hike, we encountered a Canada Jay—bold and curious, as always.

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It hopped from branch to branch, tilting its head in that inquisitive way, and briefly followed us along the trail before vanishing into the trees.

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Raptor Overhead

American Kestrel

At one of the higher overlooks, we spotted an American Kestrel hovering mid-air, searching the ground below. Its precise flight and sharp movements were mesmerizing.

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We watched it until it dove out of sight, likely locking onto its next meal.

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A Surprise on the Trail

Sooty Grouse

One of the most memorable moments came when we crossed paths with a Sooty Grouse, standing quietly just off the trail. Its calm presence and striking plumage were a treat to see up close.

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It didn't seem too bothered by our presence, giving us a rare and special moment of observation.

Alpine fir

Ending on a High Note

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The Hurricane Hill Trail delivered everything we hoped for—stunning scenery, peaceful solitude, and a mix of familiar and new bird sightings.

Olympic Marmot

Reaching the summit and soaking in the expansive views was the perfect reward after the climb. It’s a trail we’ll definitely remember fondly.

Bumblebee