My original plan was for Marmot Pass, but it rained so miserably when approaching Quilcene that I had no desire to roll the dice and see if it’s better at the trailhead. So off to Hurricane Ridge I went, where a reliable webcam showed blue skies.
Park entrance had little delay at 8.30. Hurricane Ridge parking was 3/4 full by 9 am, while Hurricane Hill was overflowing, so I got to park two lots down the hill. Remember to use facilities at Hurricane Ridge if you need it.
A lot has been said about this trail before, and it all still stands: fully paved, steep in places, free of snow. Wildflowers are in full swing all around. I’m sure knowledgeable people will identify dozens and dozens of species, but even to an uneducated eye it is an incredible diversity. Wildlife is out too! Local elk herd was nonchalantly grazing at the top of the hill. Marmots were busy eating and playing, running their errands across and along trails, and sometimes posing on snow cornices. Last but not least, clouds made the scenery dramatic.
By 11 am the trail got quite busy, and a cloud settled in, stealing views and bringing cold drizzle, at which point I felt accomplished and rushed back to my car. Drive down was nearly zero visibility all the way to the entrance booth.
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