Suiattle Guard Station

Summary

The Suiattle Guard Station is a historic log cabin constructed in 1913, located near the Suiattle River surrounded by mountain peaks and old-growth forest. It is accessible by car and offers many amenities, including trails for hiking and fishing spots. With views of Mt. Baker and abundant wildlife, the guard station is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and nearby attractions.

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. Many creature comforts are provided, but guests will need to bring a few of their own amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

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.

Facilities

The cabin can accommodate four people with one full size bed with mattress and one futon. Other amenities include a table, two benches, two chairs, a propane refrigerator, stove, lantern, cookware, dishes, utensils, water heater and a wood stove. A bathroom with a shower and flush toilet is located at the back of the guard station, and a primitive vault toilet is located 20 feet from the building. Firewood is available outside the cabin.

There is room on-site for up to four tents and two RVs. No electrical hook-ups are available. The water source to the building consists of a spring that is run into a small collection box on the hillside behind the cabin and piped into the building. This water is not drinkable and is to be used only for the toilet.

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

Propane canisters are not provided for the lantern, so guests must bring their own propane canisters. Other items to bring include food, a backup light source, 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.

Nearby Mt. Baker, the most prominent feature of the Mt. Baker Wilderness Area, dominates the landscape on a clear day. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet, the active volcano from which the forest takes its name is perpetually snow-capped and mantled with an extensive network of creeping glaciers. Mt. Baker's summit, Grant Peak, is actually a mound of ice 1,300 feet deep, which hides a massive volcanic crater.

Wildlife is abundant, and guests may catch a glimpse of black bears, bobcats, elk or bald eagles. Wolves are making a comeback to the area, but they are usually heard and not seen.

Nearby Attractions

Darrington, located 26 miles from the cabin, has a grocery store, sporting goods store and gas station for last minute items.