Elk Valley Guard Station

About

Elk Valley Guard Station is a historic U.S. Forest Service facility located in the Logan Ranger District of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Originally known as Saddle Creek Ranger Station, it was formally renamed Elk Valley Guard Station in October 1942. The site features three historic buildings: a cabin constructed in 1924, a barn built in 1925, and an outhouse added in 1948. The station serves primarily as a day-use warming hut for snowmobilers exploring the popular Peter Sinks Trail, known for its wide-open fields, rolling hills, and forest climbing routes. In 1992, the Forest Service proposed disposing of the buildings, but through consultation, a local snowmobile club was granted a special use permit to maintain and operate the facility. The area is a critical wintering ground for elk, and snowmobilers are cautioned to stay on designated trails. An easy dirt road provides access to the guard station during summer months. Visitors are encouraged to explore the historic site and fill out the log book. Note that this is a day-use warming shelter, not an overnight campground or rental cabin.

Directions

From Hardware Ranch in Cache County, take the northbound snowmobile trail toward Peter Sinks. An easy dirt road leads to Elk Valley Guard Station during summer months. The station is located approximately 11 miles from the Hardware Ranch Visitor Center.