Sunday Drive to Hurricane Ridge – Shadow, our Aging Norwegian Elkhound Still Loves the Snow!

On Sunday morning, April 18, 2021, Diane and I decided to drive to Hurricane Ridge for a picnic, bringing along our dog, Shadow, a Norwegian Elkhound who loves the snow. Shadow is approaching 14 years old, and these days just going for short walks is challenging for her. When we arrived at Hurricane Ridge, there was still over 110” of snow at the Ridge and covering the surrounding Olympic Mountains, making for breathtaking views in all directions. Diane and I enjoyed walking along with Shadow as she explored the edges of the melting snow banks. We took tons of photos and videos! We eat our picnic lunch while sitting in our car, enjoying the commanding view of the majestic Olympic Mountains.

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. The visitors center, which houses an information desk, gift-shop, restrooms, a snack bar, and a deck with commanding mountain views is normally bustling with tourist activity during the spring and summer seasons. Except for the restrooms and deck, the visitors center remained closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hurricane Ridge also offers several picnic areas, paved walking trails and more challenging hiking trails, and a winter ski and snowboard area all of which are currently closed due to the exceptionally high snow depth and avalanche risk. A visit to Hurricane Ridge is an absolute must any season!