Backcountry Touring at Hurricane Ridge: Sunrise & Maggie’s Splitboard Adventure
Interested in skiing or splitboarding the Sunrise and Maggie’s runs at Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park? In this post, I’ve got all the key trail details from our adventure on February 16, 2025. I’ll share the mistakes our group made (and how you can avoid them), along with tips to help make your backcountry day as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Plus, I’ll provide the exact locations where we started our ascent on Sunrise and Maggie’s, and more!
Backcountry Ski/Snowboard Tour Specs: Sunrise & Maggie’s Route from Hurricane Ridge
- Route: Sunrise & Maggie’s at Hurricane Ridge
- Distance: 3.78 miles
- Ascent: 967 feet
- Descent: 1,017 feet
- Max Elevation: 5,446 feet
- Min Elevation: 4,692 feet
- Total Time: 4 hours 39 minutes
- Moving Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Stopped Time: 1 hour 58 minutes
- Parkig Permit: Olympic National Park Day Pass or America the Beautiful Pass
- Cell Phone Coverage: Some in spots
- Distance from Seattle: 2.5 hours
Safety Disclaimer:
I’m still new to backcountry riding, and this post is simply a recap of our experience, including our GPX track. Backcountry skiing and splitboarding come with significant risks, including avalanches, sudden weather changes, and other hazards. Conditions can vary greatly, and what was safe for us on this day may not be safe for you.
I highly recommend checking the avalanche forecast, weather conditions, and trail reports before heading out. Always carry proper safety gear (beacon, probe, and shovel), know how to use it, and consider taking an avalanche safety course if you haven't already. Your safety is your responsibility—please make smart, informed decisions when venturing into the backcountry.
Tour Overview: Sunrise & Maggie’s Splitboard Adventure from Hurricane Ridge
To complete the full backcountry tour of both Sunrise and Maggie’s, our group covered 3.78 miles, gaining 967 feet of elevation and descending 1,017 feet. The entire tour took us 4 hours and 39 minutes, with 2 hours and 40 minutes of moving time. We spent 1 hour and 58 minutes stopped—chatting, soaking in the views, discussing our route, and transitioning our splitboards from ski mode to snowboard mode. (Skiers can probably save close to an hour on this tour since they only need to adjust their skins and lock down their ski touring bindings, while splitboarders have to fully transition their boards into ride mode.)
During the tour, we reached a maximum elevation of 5,446 feet and a minimum elevation of 4,692 feet. We enjoyed two solid runs with amazing powder and one shorter one after a failed attempt at a sketchy section where we decided to turn back and head up to the road. Sunrise and Maggie’s were an absolute blast, but I’d recommend sticking to just one area unless you have a car-to-car shuttle system set up with two vehicles. Our group lost a lot of potential ride time with the long road walk.
That said, if you’re looking for a quiet backcountry ski or splitboard tour with epic views and incredible powder, I highly recommend giving this route a try.
Heading to Sunrise from the Hurricane Ridge Parking Lot
We started our tour at the Hurricane Ridge parking area, strapping our splitboards into ski mode and heading to the right, past the rope tow and snow tubing area.
We hugged the right side, climbing up past the top of the rope tow. From there, we traversed toward Sunrise, reaching an elevation of 5,446 feet at 0.32 miles. At this point, we stopped and transitioned from ski touring mode to snowboard mode.
We rode another 0.4 miles to the top of our chosen drop-in point for Sunrise. Snow conditions were absolutely perfect, the only thing was a bit of low visibility but not bad. Every turn felt incredible. I’d happily loop that run all day or link it with some of the other short runs in the area.
Failed Attempt Up Route
After Our run down sunrise we continued down the road a bit to this GPS coordinates 47.97282, -123.48861 • Elevation: 5,052 ft. We hiked up several hundred feet until we hit a point where It was looking a bit too steep and sketchy to continue so we decided to swap our splitboards back into board mode and ride back to the road. It was a few short fun turns but we probably wasted about an hour on this little side adventure. Where time would have been better spent lapping either Sunrise or Maggies. After this run, we continued down the Hurricane Ridge Road a bit.
Heading To Maggies Run From The Road
At GPS coordinates 47.97322, -123.47880, we started our ascent toward Maggie’s. The climb through the trees here was absolutely stunning, with occasional glimpses of the surrounding mountain peaks. I really loved this section of our backcountry tour—it felt like riding through a winter postcard. The slopes in this area are relatively low-angle, which helps reduce avalanche risk, but we still kept an eye on conditions as we climbed.
Entrance To Our Route Going Up Maggies, At Hurricane Ridge
GPS Coordinates: 47.97322, -123.47880 • Elevation: 4,871 ft
Dropping Into Maggies on our Ski Tour At Hurricane Ridge
At 1.76 miles into our backcountry tour, we transitioned our splitboards from ski mode to snowboard mode and dropped into Maggie’s. The powder here was absolutely fantastic, and we had great conditions for an amazing run down to the road. The only minor concern came at the 2.08-mile mark, where low snow coverage exposed some rocks, but we all navigated it without issue. There are plenty of options in the Maggie’s area, and this was easily my favorite ride of the entire day.
After riding Maggie’s, we were running low on time, so we opted for the long trek back up Hurricane Ridge Road to the main visitor parking lot. During this road walk back to the parking lot, we really started to see the advantage of people having two cars—one parked at each end. Watching other skiers hitch rides back to their cars and wave at us while we hiked back up made it clear just how convenient it could be! If I had just one vehicle, I’d probably stick to exploring the Maggie’s area and its adjacent trails. Despite the limited time and only getting in two and a half runs, it was still an incredible day in the backcountry.
Ski Route Tips To Maximize Your Time on the Mountain
If you’re planning a backcountry day at Hurricane Ridge, consider these tips to make the most of your time and energy:
1. Focus on Sunrise or Maggie’s
While combining Sunrise and Maggie’s in one day can be rewarding, it also involves a long road walk that cuts into your riding time. For a more efficient day, consider focusing on just one route. Sunrise offers stunning ridge views, while Maggie’s provides fun tree runs with powder stashes.
2. Link Sunrise with Other Routes
Sunrise Ridge can be easily linked with other nearby routes to extend your adventure without the long traverse. Explore adjacent ridges or find alternate lines to maximize your vertical while staying close to the parking area.
3. Link Maggies With Other Routes
Similar to Sunrise, Maggie’s offers several options for extending your backcountry experience. The terrain around Maggie’s is highly varied, from open bowls to tree-lined slopes. You can explore nearby ridges or take advantage of adjacent lines to maximize your runs and vertical without spending too much time walking. If you're comfortable with navigating different sections of the mountain, you can create a loop or pick several routes close to Maggie’s to enjoy different terrain features throughout the day. This keeps your adventure interesting while reducing travel time between runs.
4. Car-to-Car Strategy
One of the best ways to avoid the long walk is to use a car shuttle system. Park one vehicle near the Sunrise trailhead and another closer to Maggie’s. This car-to-car approach saves time and energy, allowing you to spend more time riding and less time hiking along the road.
By choosing a single route, linking Sunrise with other nearby runs, or setting up a car shuttle, you’ll get more riding time and a more enjoyable backcountry experience at Hurricane Ridge.
Highlights of the Day
- Great Views: Despite the fog hugging the surrounding mountain peaks we did get some glimpses through the mist of some stunning peaks. From hiking here on clear days I know from past experiences you can get some gorgeous views.
- Perfect Snow Conditions: Fresh powder made the descent incredibly fun.
- Quiet Solitude: Despite Hurricane Ridge’s popularity, the Sunrise and Maggie’s routes offered peaceful stretches of solitude. We only saw a few other groups. It wasn't crowded at all and we were making lots of fresh tracks.
Gear I Brought With Me Backcountry Touring at Hurricane Ridge
Avalanche Safety Gear
- BCA Avalanche Airbag Pack
- BCA Tracker 3 Avalanche Transceiver
- Ortovox Shovel
- Black Diamond Probe
- Mini Handheld Saw
- Garmin InReach Explorer (Satellite Messenger)
- Rocky Talkie (Two-Way Radio)
Clothing & Layers
- KÜHL Women’s THE ONE™ SHELL Jacket (See Gear Review Blog Post)
- KÜHL Women’s Spyfire Jacket (See Gear Review Blog Post)
- Patagonia Snow Pants
- Black Diamond Base Layer
- Eddie Bauer Leggings
- Black Diamond Guide Gloves
- Thin Hiking Gloves
- Hat
- Smith Helmet
- Ski Goggles
Other Essentials
After Backcountry Ski Touring at Hurricane Ridge
Favorite After-Tour Eats: Next Door Gastropub in Port Angeles
After an exciting day of backcountry skiing at Hurricane Ridge, nothing hits the spot like a hearty meal. For me, that post-adventure refuel happens at Next Door Gastropub in Port Angeles. This cozy spot offers a variety of delicious pub fare and a fantastic rotating beer tap list, making it the perfect place to unwind and recharge after a day on the slopes.
Address: 113 W 1st St, Port Angeles, WA 98362
Phone: (360) 504-2613
Website: nextdoorgastropub.com
Passes Needed for Backcountry Touring at Hurricane Ridge: Sunrise & Maggie’s in Olympic National Park
When heading out for a backcountry ski tour at Hurricane Ridge, it’s important to ensure you have the proper park pass for Olympic National Park. There are a couple of options depending on the length of your visit and how often you plan to visit the park. Here are the key passes to consider:
Standard Entrance Pass
The Standard Entrance Pass is a day pass for Olympic National Park, valid for up to 7 consecutive days. This is perfect for those who are visiting for one day or a few days in a row. You can purchase this pass at the park entrance or online through the National Park Service website.
Pricing:
- Private Vehicle (includes all people in the vehicle): $30.00
- Motorcycle: $25.00
- Per Person (walk-up, bicycle, horseback): $15.00
To purchase the Standard Entrance Pass for your trip to Olympic National Park and Hurricane Ridge, click here.
America the Beautiful Pass
If you plan to visit more than one national park or federal recreation area this year, the America the Beautiful Pass is a great investment. For $80, this pass grants you access to all U.S. national parks and federal lands for an entire year. It’s an excellent choice for frequent travelers or those planning multiple national park visits.
You can purchase the America the Beautiful Pass either online in advance or at the entrance to the park. Buying it ahead of time can help you skip the lines at the park entrance, especially during peak visiting times. Some parks even have a separate line for pass holders, allowing you to bypass the general entrance line.
To get your America the Beautiful Pass, click here.
No matter which pass you choose, make sure you're prepared for a fantastic day of backcountry touring at Hurricane Ridge!
Backcountry Ski Touring Weather and Avalanche Conditions
Checking the weather and avalanche conditions before a backcountry ski tour is crucial for a safe and successful adventure. Mountain weather can shift quickly, with sudden storms, whiteouts, or temperature swings that can impact both visibility and snow stability. Snowpack conditions are heavily influenced by recent weather patterns—like fresh snowfall, warming trends, or strong winds—which can increase avalanche risk. Planning ahead allows you to choose safer routes, dress appropriately, and avoid hazardous terrain. Always consult reliable sources like the NOAA 7-Day Forecast for Hurricane Ridge and check current avalanche conditions through the Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC). A few minutes of preparation can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable day in the backcountry.
For up-to-date weather conditions at Hurricane Ridge, Check The NOAA 7-Day Forecast.
For Backcountry Avalanche Forecast Olympics Check The Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC)
Checking Hurricane Ridge Road Conditions: Essential Winter Prep for a Safe Ski Tour
Planning a winter backcountry ski tour at Hurricane Ridge requires more than just checking the weather—understanding the road conditions and rules for Hurricane Ridge Road is equally important. The road to Hurricane Ridge is known for its challenging winter conditions, including ice, snow, and reduced visibility. Failing to prepare can leave you stuck, fined, or unable to access the ridge at all. Here’s what you need to know:
Chains Are Required—No Exceptions
From late fall through early spring, all vehicles traveling up Hurricane Ridge Road are required to carry tire chains, regardless of whether you have four-wheel drive or snow tires. Park rangers regularly check vehicles at the entrance, and failure to have chains in your car can result in being turned away or fined. Even if you’re driving a 4WD with studded tires, chains must be present in your vehicle.
Pro Tip: Practice installing your chains before you go. If conditions worsen, you’ll be ready to put them on safely and efficiently.
Vehicle Recommendations
- 4WD or AWD: Highly recommended due to steep grades and icy sections.
- Snow tires: Provide better traction but don’t exempt you from the chain requirement.
- Front-wheel drive vehicles: Can make the trip but must have chains and exercise caution.
Hurricane Ridge Road Winter Gate Schedule
The Hurricane Ridge Road is gated and managed during winter for safety. Here’s what to expect:
- Gate Location: The road gate is located near the Heart O’ the Hills entrance station.
- Gate Opening Times: Weather permitting, the gate typically opens at 9:00 AM on scheduled days and closes to uphill traffic at 4:00 PM. The road itself usually closes completely by sunset.
- Opening Days: The road is generally open on weekends, holidays, and some additional days during peak winter months. However, openings are always weather-dependent.
Important: Snowstorms, icy conditions, or avalanche risk can delay or cancel gate openings.
How to Get Current Road Conditions for a Backcountry Ski day at Hurricane Ridge
Always check the latest road status before heading out, as conditions can change quickly. Call the
Olympic National Park Road & Weather Hotline: (360) 565-3131. This hotline provides real-time updates on gate openings, road closures, and other important weather-related announcements.
By staying informed about road conditions, carrying chains, and preparing for winter driving challenges, you'll set yourself up for a safer and smoother backcountry ski tour at Hurricane Ridge.
How to Get to Hurricane Ridge: Driving Directions from Seattle
To get to Hurricane Ridge from Seattle, start by heading south on I-5, then take exit 104 to US-101 West toward Aberdeen. Stay on US-101 for about 80 miles, passing through Sequim and Port Angeles. Once in Port Angeles, follow signs for Hurricane Ridge and turn onto Hurricane Ridge Road. This winding, steep road will take you up to the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center, which is about 17 miles from Port Angeles. The entire drive from Seattle typically takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes, but be prepared for winter driving conditions, especially in the colder months, when snow and ice can affect the roads. Make sure to check road conditions before your trip by calling the (360) 565-3131 Olympic National Park Road Hotline or visiting their website for updates. The road is often closed in winter due to snow.
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