Guillemot Cove Trailhead

For dining options near Guillemot Cove, Camp Union Saloon offers a cozy atmosphere with a great selection of beers and cocktails, along with comfort food. Another option is Seabeck Pizza, which provides delicious pizzas in a casual setting. For those seeking a broader menu, Geoduck Restaurant and Lounge in Brinnon offers American fare with a focus on fast service and a great beer selection. Additionally, Crows Nest Bistro & Cafe is known for its cozy ambiance and excellent coffee. Lastly, 19th Hole Bar & Grill provides a lively atmosphere with live music and sports events.

These establishments cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone.

For accommodations near Guillemot Cove, the Best Western Plus Silverdale Beach Hotel offers refined waterfront lodging with amenities like an indoor pool and free loaner bikes. Another excellent choice is the Oxford Suites Silverdale, which provides all-suite accommodations with free Wi-Fi and a hot breakfast. Both hotels are well-suited for families and travelers seeking comfort and convenience while exploring the area.

These hotels offer a blend of relaxation and accessibility to nearby attractions.

Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve lacks restroom facilities, emphasizing a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy to maintain its pristine environment. However, the area offers beautiful saltwater beach access and a variety of walking trails. Visitors can enjoy picnicking and wildlife watching amidst the serene natural surroundings. For more extensive amenities, nearby parks like Scenic Beach State Park offer picnic tables, barbecue grills, and public restrooms.

The reserve's focus is on preserving its natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate unspoiled landscapes.

Guillemot Cove is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife watching. The trails range from easy to moderate, making them suitable for families and solo hikers alike. Visitors can explore the unique Stump House, a hollowed-out cedar stump, and enjoy the scenic views of the Olympic Mountains. The beach area is great for swimming and picnicking during warmer months.

For those interested in more adventurous activities, nearby areas offer opportunities for kayaking and exploring the Hood Canal.

Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve does not offer specific disability access features such as ramps or wheelchair rentals. However, the trails are generally natural surface paths, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Nearby facilities like Scenic Beach State Park offer more accessible amenities, including wheelchair-accessible restrooms and parking. Visitors with disabilities should plan accordingly and consider visiting more accessible locations in the area.

It is advisable to contact local park authorities for more detailed information on accessibility options.

Parking at Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve is limited, with a small dirt shoulder serving as the parking lot. It is essential to arrive early to secure a spot. There are no parking fees, but a Discover Pass may be required for access. The parking area is conveniently located near the trailheads, allowing easy access to the trails and beach.

Due to the limited parking, visitors should plan accordingly and consider carpooling or arriving early to ensure availability.

Guillemot Cove has a rich history, having been logged for cedar in the late 1800s. The unique notches in the tree stumps are remnants of springboard logging practices. The area was later preserved by the Reynolds family and is now a nature reserve, thanks to the Trust for Public Land. The Stump House is a local legend, with stories suggesting it was once used by an escaped convict named Dirty Thompson.

The cove's name comes from the black and white Pigeon Guillemot seabirds, which are often spotted in the area.

One of the main attractions at Guillemot Cove is the Stump House, a fascinating hollowed-out cedar stump with a roof. The area also offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and access to the tranquil waters of Hood Canal. Nearby attractions include Scenic Beach State Park, which features a campground, rhododendron gardens, and boating facilities.

The cove itself is named after the Pigeon Guillemot seabirds that frequent the area, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.