Hurricane Ridge Guided Snowshoe Tour in Olympic National Park

If you’re longing to experience the snow-covered majesty of Olympic National Park, a guided Hurricane Ridge Snowshoe Tour offers an excellent way to do it. Priced at $190 per person, this roughly 6 to 7-hour trip takes you from the charming port town of Port Angeles up into the snowy peaks, where you’ll learn about winter safety, enjoy spectacular views, and get some good exercise—all with the help of expert guides.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the all-inclusive nature—snowshoes, trekking poles, roundtrip transportation, and a picnic lunch if you choose—means you can focus on the scenery and the snow rather than worrying about gear or logistics. Second, the knowledgeable guides get consistent praise for their friendliness and expertise, making the experience especially rewarding for beginners or those new to snowshoeing.

One thing to keep in mind is the distance from Seattle — about three hours by road—so it’s best suited for travelers who are okay with a bit of a drive. Also, since the group is limited to ten participants, it feels intimate and personalized. Given all this, this adventure is perfect for nature lovers looking for a guided, hassle-free way to explore Olympic’s winter wonderland.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience covers gear, transportation, and park entrance fees
• Expert guides provide safety tips, local knowledge, and friendly service
• Flexible options like a picnic lunch add to the relaxed, personalized feel
• Ideal for beginners and those with moderate fitness levels
• Limited group size ensures a more intimate and engaging experience
• Departure from Port Angeles makes it easy to access the park’s top winter sights

Why Choose This Tour?

This guided snowshoe trip is designed for travelers who want to enjoy Olympic National Park’s winter scenery without the fuss of planning every detail themselves. With a fixed price of $190, you receive all necessary gear, transportation, and park access, making it a straightforward way to enjoy a winter day in the mountains. The tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views, learn about winter safety, and enjoy a relaxed pace.

The guides are a major highlight, with reviews consistently noting their knowledge and accommodating nature. You’ll learn the basics of snowshoeing, including how to use the gear properly and what to watch out for regarding avalanche safety. For beginners or those new to snowshoeing, this guidance adds confidence and makes the experience accessible.

The tour begins early, with a meet-up at 8:30 AM in Port Angeles, and includes a shuttle to Hurricane Ridge in a comfortable 4WD vehicle. After arriving around 10:00 AM, the day unfolds with a scenic trek, a picnic lunch at the mid-point, and a return trip to Port Angeles by early to mid-afternoon.

What We Love About It

Two things stand out distinctly. First, the gear—you don’t need to rent or buy anything beforehand, as snowshoes and trekking poles are provided. This removes one barrier for newcomers and simplifies the process of winter exploration.

Second, the small group size—just up to ten travelers—allows for personalized attention, meaningful interaction with guides, and a more relaxed atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, the guides are “really great, accommodating and knowledgeable,” making it especially enjoyable for those just starting out or looking for a leisurely, educational outing.

Possible Consideration

A potential consideration is the distance from Seattle—about three hours each way. For those staying in Seattle, it requires a full day of travel, but if you’re already in Port Angeles or nearby, this is a manageable and rewarding day trip. Also, travelers need to have moderate physical fitness, as snowshoeing requires some effort, especially at higher elevations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits beginners, families, and outdoor enthusiasts eager to learn about winter hiking in a safe, guided environment. Since children must be at least 12 years old, it’s geared more toward older kids and adults. It’s particularly appealing to those who want a hassle-free way to experience Olympic’s snow-covered peaks without the need for extensive planning or gear shopping.

Pickup and Transportation

The adventure starts at 720 Marine Dr. in Port Angeles, a convenient hub for exploring the Olympic Peninsula. From here, a comfortable 4WD shuttle takes you on a scenic ride to Hurricane Ridge, which is the park’s premier winter snowshoe destination. This transportation is a real plus, especially in winter conditions, saving you from navigating icy roads or worrying about parking.

Arrival at Hurricane Ridge

Arriving around 10:00 AM, you’ll meet your guide—often someone with a wealth of local knowledge and a friendly demeanor. The elevated views from Hurricane Ridge are breathtaking, with sweeping vistas of snow-covered mountains, frozen meadows, and, on clear days, distant ocean glimpses.

Snowshoeing and Safety Briefing

After gear fitting and safety instructions, your guide will review snowshoeing basics, avalanche awareness, and winter safety tips. Even if you’re familiar with snowshoeing, these briefings add an extra layer of confidence and contextual understanding, especially regarding changes in snow conditions and weather.

The Snowshoe Trek

The route chosen by your guide will depend on current conditions, but expect a gentle, scenic trek across snow-blanketed landscapes. The route is designed to be accessible, but enough elevation and terrain variety keep it interesting.

Midpoint Picnic and Rest

Around the halfway mark, you’ll pause for a picnic lunch—either brought from your own supplies or provided as part of the tour. Eating amid the mountain scenery makes for a memorable meal, whether you prefer a simple sandwich or a hot thermos of soup.

Return and Reflection

After several hours on snowshoes, you’ll head back to the shuttle for the return trip. Expect to arrive in Port Angeles between 1:00 and 2:00 PM, with the shuttle departing Hurricane Ridge at 2:30 PM. This allows some flexibility for those who want to extend their day or explore other parts of the park.

The reviews echo what we suspected: guides make all the difference. One traveler called their guides “really great, accommodating and knowledgeable,” emphasizing how valuable expert insights are for such a unique environment. The small group size is also a major plus, fostering a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

Many travelers appreciated how beginner-friendly this tour is. One reviewer remarked, “really great experience for beginners,” highlighting how accessible the activity is, even for those new to snowshoeing or winter hiking. The inclusion of gear and transportation simplifies the outing, making it a perfect option for families or first-timers.

The tour’s emphasis on safety and education ensures that everyone, regardless of fitness level or experience, can enjoy the stunning scenery confidently. The optional picnic lunch adds a nice touch of comfort, transforming a physical activity into a full, satisfying mountain day.

The Value of the Experience

At $190, this tour offers good value—especially considering the all-inclusive package, small group size, and expert guidance. The cost covers park entrance fees, gear, transportation, and personalized instruction, which would be difficult or expensive to replicate independently.

Compared to a DIY trip, where you’d need to rent gear, arrange transport, and plan routes, this guided tour offers a smooth, worry-free alternative that maximizes your time on the snow and minimizes logistical headaches.

This guided snowshoe adventure is best suited for adventurers eager to learn, families with children over 12, and outdoor lovers who appreciate small group sizes and expert guidance. If you’re in the Port Angeles area and want to experience the mountain’s winter magic without the hassle of planning, this is a top choice.

If you’re traveling from Seattle, be prepared for a three-hour drive each way, making it a full-day commitment. Those with moderate fitness levels will find it manageable, but it’s not ideal for anyone with mobility issues or those seeking a more strenuous hike.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers snowshoe and trekking poles, roundtrip transportation in a 4WD vehicle, park entrance fees, and guidance from a commercial authorized hiking guide. Lunch is optional and can be included if you choose.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 6 to 7 hours, including transportation, snowshoeing, and a picnic break.

What is the meeting point?
You meet at 720 Marine Dr, Port Angeles, at 8:30 AM. The tour ends back there after the snowshoeing concludes.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced in instructing beginners, and the route and pace are designed to accommodate those new to snowshoeing.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It requires moderate physical fitness, as snowshoeing involves walking on snow-covered terrain, sometimes on slight inclines.

Can children participate?
Children must be at least 12 years old and should be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Bring layered clothing suitable for winter conditions, including waterproof outerwear, gloves, hats, and sturdy waterproof boots. The tour provides snowshoes so you won’t need to rent them separately.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, snow conditions and weather can affect the route. The guides will assess conditions and adjust accordingly.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations under that window are non-refundable.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

A Hurricane Ridge Guided Snowshoe Tour in Olympic National Park offers a well-rounded, accessible way to experience the park’s winter splendor. With knowledgeable guides, all gear provided, and a focus on safety and education, it’s perfect for those new to snowshoeing or looking for a relaxed, guided adventure. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and connect with fellow travelers.

While the drive from Seattle is considerable, those in Port Angeles or the surrounding area will find this full-day excursion to be a memorable highlight of their Olympic trip. It’s especially suited for families, beginners, and outdoor enthusiasts who want a safe, guided way to explore the snow-covered peaks while learning about winter safety.

If you’re craving a scenic, educational, and hassle-free winter outdoor activity, this tour hits all the right notes. Bundle up, bring your curiosity, and prepare for an authentic mountain adventure that combines stunning views with expert insights.