Guillemot Cove
Olympic PeninsulaBest Year-round
A short descent through ancient maples to a quiet Hood Canal beach with seabirds and a hollowed-cedar Stump House.
About This Trail
Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve drops through 184 acres of old-growth big-leaf maples to a secluded Hood Canal beach. The moss-draped maples, some over 200 years old, create a canopy that feels ancient and quiet. Several interconnected trails (Sawmill, Margaret, Beach House, Stump House, Maple Tree, River) allow different loop combinations through the preserve.
The beach at the bottom opens to views across Hood Canal toward the Olympic Mountains. Seabirds feed in the cove, including the pigeon guillemots that give the preserve its name. The Stump House, a massive hollowed-out cedar stump converted into a small shelter, sits along one of the side trails and draws visitors on its own.
Kitsap County Parks manages this former Reynolds family property, purchased in 1993 with the condition it remain a nature reserve. The trail gets muddy after rain, especially on the descent to the beach, but the short distance keeps it accessible. Waterproof boots help in wet months.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Trail sections can wash out after heavy rain
- Steep descent to beach requires careful footing when muddy
Getting There
Free parking lot at the trailhead on Stavis Bay Road. No fee required. Small lot but rarely full given low traffic.
From Highway 3, take the Newberry Hill exit. Head 3 miles to Seabeck Highway and turn right. Continue 5 miles through Seabeck, then right onto Miami Beach Road for 1 mile. Turn slightly left onto Stavis Bay Road and drive 4.5 miles to the parking lot.
No time pressure on this short trail. Good for a lazy afternoon start. Allow extra time to explore the Stump House and beach. Check tides if planning to walk the shoreline.
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