Overview

Set near the Suiattle River and surrounded by mountain peaks and old-growth forest, the Suiattle Guard Station (pronounced "Sue-attle") is a historic log cabin that was constructed in 1913 by Tommy Thompson, Assistant Ranger of the Suiattle-Finney District, to house a forest guard.

Because of budget limitations at that time, the Forest Service often relied upon rangers to construct their own stations. It is a testament to Ranger Thompson’s skill that the cabin survives to this day as one of the oldest administrative buildings in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The Suiattle Guard Station was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.

The cabin is accessible by car. While some creature comforts are provided, guests will need to bring a few of their own amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay at this primitive facility.

Facilities

The cabin can accommodate four people with one full size bed with mattress and one trundle bed. Other amenities include a table with benches, a chair, battery powered lantern, cookware, dishes, utensils, and a wood stove for heat. An outdoor privy (primitive vault toilet) is located behind the guard station. Firewood is available outside the cabin.

The food preparation area consists of a propane stove top (located on the enclosed back porch) and kitchen sink basin (no running water). Propane is provided.

There is room on-site for up to four tents and two RVs. No electrical hook-ups are available. The water source consists of a spring that is run into a small collection box on the hillside behind the cabin and piped to a spigot behind the cabin. This water is non-potable and is to be used only for washing and fire safety.

Drinking water is not available. Guests must bring enough water for drinking and cooking.

Other items to bring include food, a cooler to store perishables, a backup light source, pillows and bedding or sleeping bags, towels, dish soap, matches, a first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. All trash and food must be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving.

Natural Features

Hemmed in by several designated wilderness areas, the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest showcases rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes and old-growth forests. The charming log cabin sits on a gently sloping lawn at the edge of the forest.

Wildlife is abundant, and guests may catch a glimpse of black bears, bobcats, elk or bald eagles, and coyote.

Recreation

Several hiking and equestrian trails crisscross the area, which are accessible from Suiattle River Road (Forest Service Road 26). Anglers can also find fishing spots nearby.

Federally protected under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the Suiattle River is popular among whitewater enthusiasts. River runners paddle Class 2 and 3 rapids through lush, forested scenery, with views of nearby snow-capped peaks. Since the headwaters of the river originate at a glacier, the water has a milky appearance. July and August are the best times for rafting.

Nearby Attractions

Contact Info

Important Notices

• This historical building provides a primitive overnight lodging experience for guests. Please treat the cabin and grounds with the utmost care and respect.

• Guests will need to bring food, a cooler to store perishables, flashlights, pillows and bedding or sleeping bags, towels, dish soap, matches, a first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags.

• The cabin sleeps a maximum of four guests. Additional space is available outside for up to 4 tents and two RVs, however there is only one toilet on-site so a maximum of 12 people are allowed per reservation.

• There is no trash service provided, so please be preprepared to pack out all garbage.

• Guests are expected to leave the facility and grounds clean when they depart. Basic cleaning supplies are provided. Doors and windows should be locked and all personal items removed upon departure.

• No potable water is available at this site; guests must bring their own supply of drinking water.

• A guide to operating the woodstove, cooktop, and other helpful info for staying at the facility is available on-site and may be emailed in advance of your visit by request at 530-932-0242.

• Please contact 530-932-0242 prior to your visit with any questions about the facility or access – there is no cell service at the cabin and the nearest reliable service is in Darrington. The Camp Host at Buck Creek Campground (if available) may also be able to assist with questions or immediate concerns.

• Please call the 530-932-0242 to confirm key pick up instructions; key pick up will be at a lock box located at Buck Creek Campground (approximately 1 mile from the Suiattle Guard Station). The lockbox combination will be provided by email prior to arrival or by calling.

• To promote privacy during your visit we encourage you to keep the cabin’s driveway gate closed. Please secure the cabin if you are away during your stay.

• Extreme caution must be taken when using lanterns, cook stoves or any other appliances with open flame.

• Keep the building and grounds clean to deter squirrel, mice, rats, bears and other wildlife from the area.

• Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

• The cabin is a no-smoking facility.

• Learn more about Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Available Activities

• WILDLIFE VIEWING - Wildlife Viewing
• WATER SPORTS - Whitewater Rafting
• HUNTING - Hunting
• HORSEBACK RIDING - Horseback Riding
• HIKING - Hiking
• FISHING - Fishing
• CAMPING - Camping
• HISTORIC & CULTURAL SITE - Historic Sites

Directions

<p>From Darrington, head north on WA-530 for 7.5 miles. Cross the Sauk River Bridge, then immediately turn right on Suiattle River Road (FS-26). Proceed 15 miles east (10 miles paved followed by 5 miles of gravel road) to Buck Creek Campground to retrieve the Suiattle Guard Station Keys from the lock box located at the Campground Kiosk. Continue east along the Suiattle River for one mile from the Campground Entrance to the Suiattle Guard Station driveway on the left (there is no sign at this intersection). Follow the driveway through the locked gate (key provided) and arrive at the cabin after 200 yards.</p>

Contact Information

Phone: 541-338-7869

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip