Hike to Mount Angeles Peak in Olympic National Park

Choose a clear day to enjoy magnificent panoramic views offered by this hike and scramble.

Directions:
In Port Angeles on US 101, turn south onto Race Street. Follow Race Street 1 mile to Heart O' the Hills Parkway. Follow Parkway 5 miles to entrance station and continue on Hurricane Ridge Road. Continue about 7-8 miles further and you will see a small parking area in a hairpin turn. Look hard and you will see the trail head sign. (GPS data: N 47°59.945’, W 123°27.357’, elev –4308 ft).

On the Way:

We had a nice morning drive up Highway 101. Enjoyed a beautiful sunrise as the Puget Sound was bathed in a bright orange wash. After downing a strong cup of java, Ron had us practice one of his trail songs for the hike.

While standing in the morning shadows we saw our destination, Mount Angeles Peak, bathed in sunlight.


After gearing up and ensuring we had plenty of water, as there is none to be found on this hike, we began our outing, trekking thru alpine forest. Mostly cedar and fir, we wound our way up the many switchbacks. The trail is easy to follow, affording peek-a-boo views of Mount Olympus to the south and the Beaver Valley towards the east. Continue to progress with a relaxing pace, we arrive at the Mount Angeles Saddle. Here we removed our backpacks and settled down for a light breakfast and breather. We made short work of our breakfast while enjoying views of the Klahhane ridge and Sunrise ridge.The sun had made its way up far enough in the sky that we were able to remove our light outer layer of clothing. This freed us up for the demanding rock scramble that lay ahead of us. Slinging our packs on, we left the saddle and began the second and technical part of the hike. About one third mile of rock scrambling rose up to challenge us.


Be very cautious when climbing from the saddle to the peak. Sharp rocks, loose footing, and steep drops are elements that must be respected. Patience and heads up hiking will see you to the top. But it is SO worth the effort, especially on perfect day like we enjoyed. Just check out these views and the video at the bottom of this post.

Perched on the peak of Mount Angeles is a perfect setting to relax, make a meal, and soak up the sun while basking in the breathtaking 360-degree view. Getting an early morning start meant we had the water boiling when a few more brave hikers joined us at the top for lunch. We savored food and friendliness as we learned about one another and swap outdoor stories. (GPS data for the peak was: N 47°59.718’, W 123°28.034’, elev –6463 ft)
With a good lunch in our bellies, we stretched out in the sun for a warm and relaxing rest. Birds danced on the thermals as we absorbed the beauty all around us. Like an alarm clock, the marmots in the valley below began calling out their satisfaction of the day. Gathering the equipment, ensuring we left no trace, we made ready for the return descent. If we had planned ahead and used two vehicles, we could have returned on a trail to Sunrise Point, near the Hurricane Ridge visitors center. This would have allowed us a slower descent along a ridge, over new territory with a continuation of the panoramic views. Just have to save that route for our next trip here.Climbing down from the rocky peak, past the holes the marmots burrow in, back through the tree line, we finally arrived at the trail head. Everyone safely back, we removed our gear and completed the ride up to the Hurricane Ridge Visitor's Lodge. We sauntered around enjoying the magnificent views and information that is provided at the lodge. Comfortably happy, we called it a day and returned safely home.

Video of Hike