Hurricane Ridge to Obstruction Point Scenic Drive
Obstruction Point Road has been called Washington's scariest road. It is Olympic National Park's highest elevation road and is narrow with steep drop-offs in places. Since it's a single-lane gravel path at points, the route gets a little hairy when you're trying to maneuver past an oncoming car.
The road is an eight mile dirt maintained road from Hurricane Ridge to Obstruction Point. Although it is usually open from mid-July to October, the road is subject to weather and damage closures without notice.
Always call ahead for road conditions (360-565-3131 recording). The road sees heavy traffic when open, especially on weekends. Weekday travel is preferable during peak season. Only cars are allowed. The road is not suitable for trailers or motorhomes.
Up for the Trip?
The Obstruction Point Road begins near the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center at 5242 feet above sea level. Take a right as you exit the parking lot. The road is slightly hidden because of a dip from the parking lot down to the road so it’s easy to miss if you don’t know it’s there. As you drive, the road weaves back and forth on sharp switchbacks, ending at Obstruction Point at 6,150 feet above sea level.
The road comes to an end at a small parking area, which serves as the trailhead for several paths including the popular Badger Valley Grand Lake Loop.
