Hamma Hamma Guard Station

Built by the Civilian Conversation Corps between 1936-1937 and originally used as an administrative guard station for Forest Service fire and trail crews, the Hamma Hamma cabin is a unique lodging alternative located in the Skokomish Wilderness. Over the years its architectural integrity has been so well preserved that the guard station has been nominated to the National Register of Historic Places. It is now enjoyed by overnight visitors year-round. 

The cabin is situated in a clearing above the path of the Hamma Hamma River, named for the Twana village, Hab'hab, that once existed at the river's mouth and for the reed that grows along the river's banks. The most immediate way to explore the wilderness from the cabin is to walk the Living Legacy Trail. Only a quarter-mile long, the trail begins on the eastern side of the clearing and includes several interpretive signs describing the history of the area and the work of the CCC.  If you are visiting in the spring, keep an eye out for nesting harlequin ducks that journey from the sea to the fresh water of the Hamma Hamma. Not until the eggs hatch and chicks develop does the female guide her young back to the Hood Canal, where they pass the remainder of the year.

Considering that the guard station is located in the southeastern corner of the Olympic National Forest, recreational opportunities are many and can vary from a leisurely river walk to arduous mountain climbs. To get a perspective on the dramatic ridges on either side of the valley, head west just a few miles to the trailhead for Lena Lake. This 6-mile, there-and-back hike traverses through an old-growth forest of Douglas fir, western hemlock and western red cedar and leads to excellent lakeside vistas of the surrounding peaks. An more difficult alternative is the Jefferson Ridge Trail. You'll see downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens on a clear day from midway up the trail.

In addition to its outstanding location, the amenities of the Hamma Hamma Guard Station ensure a fun and comfortable stay. The cabin has a fold-out futon in the living room, one bedroom with a double bed and one with bunks, a large, bright living room with a propane heater, a kitchen with table and chairs, and a bathroom with flushing toilet. The cabin is equipped with propane fueled lighting and heating, a stove, a sink, a refrigerator, pots, pans, and cooking and eating utensils. Outside, a fire ring with wood, a picnic table, and a barbeque grill are available. Visitors must bring their own linens, potable water, matches, garbage bags, dish soap and toilet paper.

Note: Pet owners plan accordingly - pets are not allowed at the Hamma Hamma Guard Station.