Morning at Hurricane Ridge

WashingtonOlympicNational Park

Overlook Overlook

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.

Overlook Overlook

Alpine Beauty All Around

Arctic lupine 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 Chipmunk

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

Overlook Overlook

Chickadees and Nuthatches

Chestnut-backed Chickadee 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 Red-breasted Nuthatch

A Flurry of Pine Siskins

Pine Siskin Pine Siskin

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

Overlook Overlook

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 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.

Overlook Overlook

A Jay Among the Pines

Canada Jay 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 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.

Overlook Overlook

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 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.

Overlook Overlook

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

Alpine fir Alpine fir

Ending on a High Note

Overlook Overlook

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

Olympic Marmot 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 Bumblebee

Length: 3.4 (miles)
Difficulty: moderate
Date of the hike: 2025-07-05