Want to experience some snowy weather? Well that’s not far from Kitsap County. Just head over to the Olympic Peninsula and go to Hurricane Ridge in the Olympic National Park just outside of Port Angeles. The recent winter weather has left a fantastic snow pack in the  Olympic Mountains which makes for great winter recreating. You can indulge in snow shoeing, cross country skiing, ski lessons, sledding, and snow boarding at Hurricane Ridge.

For information concerning the current conditions at Hurricane Ridge and the road status go to this link. There are webcams so you can actually see the amount of snow and they list the current temperature and wind speed.

http://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/hurricane-ridge-current-conditions.htm

I have found that they update the information by about 9 to 9:30 on weekends which gives you enough time to get there from Kitsap County (about an hour and half from Kingston) and have lots of time left in the day to enjoy your visit. Remember that you need a pass to go into the park but the fees are reasonable and if you like outdoor recreation an annual pass is the only way to go.

The winter scenery is beautiful and the astounding quiet is so very pleasant.

The park rangers patrol the trails constantly to make sure everyone is safe and obeying the rules. Speaking of rules, well all of that information is available in the lodge at the information desk. The rangers provide maps and even an afternoon guided snowshoe walk. Anyone venturing farther than 1/4 mile from the lodge must sign out, say what trail you will be on, and then sign in again upon return. This is for your own safety of course, and also  should they close the park and send people off the mountain because of inclement weather, the rangers can track you down.

Any color certainly shows up in the monochromatic scenery. Guess that’s why orange is good for safety. Gonna see that parka for sure!

This shot was taken on an earlier trip to Hurricane Ridge (note no snow on trees). The trail was quite worn from many snowshoes and skis, but with the sun out who cares! The sign advises snow shoes to the left and skis to the right. It is posted at the end of the children’s sledding area (no older people allowed) right before the back country trail starts.

This is the view looking over the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Vancouver Island.

So in conclusion, if you want to experience a winter wonderland only miles from Kitsap County, just travel to Hurricane Ridge. However, be diligent and be prepared. Do your homework, wear lots of warm appropriate clothes, take good food and water, and most of all, HAVE A BLAST!

Sunday March 18, 2012

Here is a link to the Hurricane Ridge website. Just scroll down the page to see the photos they posted of the new winter blast. I guess one day they had 20 inches in 48 hours. Lots of fun for all as soon as the road is good and clear.

http://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/hurricane-ridge-current-conditions.htm