A Spring Visit at Hurricane Ridge - Snow for our Elkhound!

The only words that can describe the panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains from Hurricane Ridge are majestic, breathtaking, and surreal.
As the days were getting longer and the temperatures getting warmer, it was time for us to go for a drive up to Hurricane Ridge with Skye, our Norwegian Elkhound, so that we could enjoy the view of the snow-capped Olympic Mountains, and Skye could frolic in the piles of snow before it all melted. Tuesday morning on April 16, 2024, the weather was cloudy down in the flatlands and at Dungeness Valley where we live. But the TV news meteorologist’s prediction was for partly cloudy skies with spots of sunshine in the early afternoon. So, Diane and I gathered up our winter jackets, gloves, some snacks and bottled water, loaded up Skye in our Subaru Outback and headed for Hurricane Ridge.
Hurricane Ridge is a 35-mile drive from Sequim, Washington, where we now live for our early retirement. At an elevation of 5,242 feet, this year-round destination offers spectacular views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan De Fuca. Sadly, and with no definitive cause, the two-story 12,200 square foot Visitors Center and Day Lodge, constructed in 1952, burned to the ground. The structure, which housed an information desk, gift-shop, restrooms, a snack bar, and a deck with commanding mountain views was normally bustling with tourist activity during the spring and summer seasons. Hurricane Ridge also offers several picnic areas, paved walking trails and more challenging hiking trails, and a winter ski and snowboard area. A visit to Hurricane Ridge is an absolute must any season!

[@johntyler72]

I have been enjoying your videos so much, especially with Skye! I have lived with my best friends (7 of them since 1979 and with Peanut and Charlie now). I will be like the Vikings of old and be buried with them when I die. If you all are in Colorado Springs, please let me know.
John Tyler Jr MD

[@randallwingett]

I am pleased to hear that you are enjoying my videos! As you know, our Elkhound, Skye, bred in Wetmore, Colorado, has been the star of most of our outdoor adventure videos these days. It's a lot more fun watching her explore, hunt and play than watching an old couple hike the trails!

[@JohnLee-db9zt]

Was there in 2023. Absolutely beautiful place. Too bad the Hurricane Ridge Center was burned down. Hope they rebuild.

[@randallwingett]

Hurricane Ridge is such an iconic attraction in the Olympic National Park, I’m sure that the Visitors Center and Day Lodge will be rebuilt someday, and it will be even better than before! Thank you for watching!