Suiattle Guard Station

About

The Suiattle Guard Station is a remarkably preserved piece of Forest Service history, constructed in 1913 by Assistant Ranger Tommy Thompson using hand-split shakes and half-dovetail notching. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990, it stands as one of the oldest administrative buildings in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The cabin sits on a gently sloping lawn at the forest's edge, surrounded by designated wilderness areas, rugged peaks, and old-growth hemlock and fir. The primitive rental sleeps up to 4 people with one full bed and one trundle bed, plus space for up to 4 tents and 2 RVs outside. Amenities include a wood stove for heat, propane cooktop on the enclosed porch, cookware, dishes, battery-powered lantern, and a vault toilet. Non-potable water is piped from a hillside spring for washing only. Guests must bring all drinking water, food, bedding, and pack out all trash. The surrounding area offers exceptional hiking and equestrian trails accessible from Forest Service Road 26, fishing in nearby streams, and whitewater rafting on the Wild and Scenic Suiattle River. The milky, glacier-fed river features Class 2-3 rapids with peak rafting conditions in July and August. Wildlife viewing opportunities include black bears, elk, bobcats, bald eagles, and coyotes.

Directions

From Darrington, travel north on WA-530 for 7.5 miles. Cross the Sauk River Bridge, then turn right onto Suiattle River Road (FS-26). Continue 15 miles east (10 miles paved, 5 miles gravel) to Buck Creek Campground to retrieve keys from the lockbox at the kiosk. Drive 1 mile further east to the guard station driveway on the left. Follow the driveway through the locked gate 200 yards to the cabin.