The Thrill of Tubing at Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park offers an exhilarating winter activity for visitors of all ages – tubing at the Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area. This popular destination provides a fun and affordable way to enjoy the park’s stunning snow-covered landscapes.
Tubing at Hurricane Ridge
The tubing park at Hurricane Ridge features a dedicated tubing hill with a poma lift and two rope tows to pull you back up the slope. Visitors aged 9 and older can enjoy the thrill of tubing for $14.00 per hour, with tubes provided by the ski area. For the little ones, the Small Children’s Snowplay Area just west of the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center offers a free and safe space to slide on their own tubes or sleds.
Accessing the Tubing Hill
To access the tubing hill, visitors must first make their way to the Hurricane Ridge area of Olympic National Park. The Hurricane Ridge Road is typically open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, but times may vary depending on road and weather conditions. All vehicles are required to carry tire chains, and visitors are encouraged to carpool and make the best use of the limited parking area.
The Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area
The tubing hill is part of the larger Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area, which is managed by the Hurricane Ridge Winter Sports Club. This area offers superb groomed runs, challenging steeps, bowls, and glades for accomplished skiers and snowboarders. With an average annual snowfall of over 400 inches, the Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area is a winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts.
Preparing for Your Tubing Adventure
Before embarking on your tubing adventure, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Visitors should check the Hurricane Ridge in Winter Twitter account to ensure the road is open and be prepared for winter driving conditions. It’s also essential to wear warm layers, bring extra clothing, and have emergency supplies like food, water, and first aid gear.
Enjoying the Tubing Experience
Once you’ve arrived at the tubing hill, you’ll be able to enjoy the thrill of gliding down the slopes on a tube. The tubing hill is open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as some holidays, from mid-December through the end of March. Visitors can purchase hourly tubing passes and take advantage of the poma lift and rope tows to make the most of their time on the hill.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
After a day of tubing, visitors can explore the other winter activities and attractions in the Hurricane Ridge area. The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center offers restrooms, exhibits, a park film, and a warming area, providing a comfortable respite from the cold. Visitors can also venture out on snowshoe or cross-country skiing trails to further immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty of Olympic National Park.
Conclusion
Olympic National Park’s tubing experience at the Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area is a must-do for winter enthusiasts. With its dedicated tubing hill, affordable pricing, and stunning natural surroundings, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the park’s snow-covered landscapes and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned tuber or a first-time visitor, the Olympic National Park tubing experience is sure to leave you with a smile on your face.