Name: Klahhane Ridge Trail
Rating: 4.5

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Features Birding · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Switchback Trail is accessed via Hurricane Ridge road, entry fee required. Hurricane Ridge road is open every day in the summer but only Fri - Sun & Holidays (weather permitting) from 9am - 4pm during the winter season. Hurricane Ridge is snowbound in winter. Avalanche dangers exist, winter navigation skills required.

Description

This well-known crest takes some effort to reach, but the views are well worth it on a clear day. From the northern end of the Switchback Trail, take the Klahhane Ridge Trail east through open meadows ringed by pine trees. The trail follows the impressive Klahhane Ridgeline skirting cliffs and ledges. Marvel at the incredible 360-degree views of the entire Olympic Peninsula. (Mount Baker to the east, Strait of Juan de Fuca & Vancouver Island to the north, Steeple Rock and Eagle Point to the south)

After covering some enjoyably easy terrain, dip down into the saddle between Mount Angeles and Rocky Peak. After a short climb back up to a rocky knoll, some hikers may opt to make this their turn-around point. For those intent on completing this trail, head steeply downhill to the northeast, aiming for the water-droplet-shaped lake far below. This arduous descent around the south and west sides of the Lake Angeles bowl is still fairly exposed and requires scrambling. The demanding trail rewards users with a refreshing dip in the lake at the end.