Stump House Hike – Easy Hike at Guillemot Cove in Kitsap Washington

The Stump House at Guillemot Cove, located on the Kitsap Peninsula, is an ideal, easy day hike that leads to an enchanting, fairy-tale-like house emerging from a stump, set against a picturesque backdrop of towering pines. This hike is perfect for anyone looking to escape into the woods with family or friends for a relaxing outing with minimal elevation gain. The trail winds through serene paths lined with beautiful pines and ferns, eventually bringing you to the Hood Canal, where you’re rewarded with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains’ front range.

Getting to Guillemot Cove Trailhead

Guillemot Cove’s trailhead trailhead is just under a 15-minute drive from the charming town of Seabeck, Washington, and roughly an hour and a half from Seattle. The road is paved and generally accessible throughout the year, with only a rare possibility of snow. Be aware, though—there are no restroom facilities or services at the trailhead, so come prepared.

Do You Need a Parking Pass for This Hike?

No, you don’t need any parking passes for this trail.

Best Time of the Year to Hike to Guillemot Cove

Fortunately, this hike is enjoyable year-round since it’s located at sea level, so snow is unlikely. However, be prepared for rain and muddy conditions in the winter months. I especially love hiking here during the rainy season—the moss becomes vibrant and lush. I usually wait for a clear day to make the most of it!

Discovering the Iconic Stump House

The highlight of this hike is the iconic Stump House, the main attraction that draws so many to this trail. After all, who wouldn’t want to see a massive cedar tree stump transformed into a little house? The Stump House dates back to the 1930s and was likely built as a playhouse. There’s also a local legend that claims it was constructed by an outlaw named Dirty Thompson, who used it to hide from the law. Whichever story you choose to believe, the Stump House remains a distinctive landmark, harking back to the homesteading days of the area.

The Easy Hike to Guillemot Cove & The Stump House

With a total distance of 2.7 miles and only 375 feet of elevation gain, this hike is gentle and very family-friendly.

Starting across from the parking area, the trail quickly leads you into the forest on a well-maintained, rock-free path that’s beautifully groomed. It descends gradually at first, becoming steeper as you approach the Hood Canal.

One of the first things you might notice is the uniformly spaced pine trees, likely the result of past logging and replanting efforts. The trail is lined with lush ferns, moss, and, in the wetter months, plenty of mushrooms. Late autumn brings vibrant fall foliage and fresh green moss, creating a stunning scene.

As you approach the Hood Canal, the trail flattens briefly, and the dense forest canopy opens up to reveal a carpet of blackberry bushes mixed with ferns and towering pines.

Eventually, the trail drops down more sharply, surrounded by giant cedar and spruce trees, with plenty of evergreen huckleberry bushes dotting the path. You’ll briefly pass alongside private property to your right before reaching the Hood Canal.

Stump House at Guillemot Cove2.7 miles | 375 feet gain

Cross a wooden boardwalk over a marshy area, followed by a small stream. Here, you can either turn right to explore the shores of the Hood Canal or head left toward the Stump House. As you make your way to the Stump House, you’ll pass a grove of Big Leaf Maples draped in moss, with a small babbling brook to your left. The Stump House is just a few minutes from this trail intersection.

The Stump House is a fascinating sight—a shelter crafted from a massive cedar stump, topped with a small roof, framed with a door, and partially lined with shingles. Step inside and explore; it’s surprisingly spacious and dry, hinting at why it might have been an ideal hideout for an outlaw.

Before heading back, be sure to check out the Hood Canal. On clear days, the view across to the Olympic Mountains is fantastic, and during low tide, keep an eye out for bald eagles.

To return, you can retrace your steps or complete a loop by taking the main road from the canal near the boardwalk section back up, offering a slightly different perspective of the area.

Are Dogs Allowed at Guillemot Cove?

Dogs aren’t allowed on this trail, unfortunately. You’ll have to leave the pup home.

Other Rules & Regulations for Guillemot Cove

• The park is only open during daylight hours (sunset to sunrise)
• No pets allowed.
• No motorized vehicles allowed.
• No drones.
• Stay on trails.
• Collection of plants, animals, and sea life (that means clams and oysters!) is prohibited.

Guillemot Cove and the Stump House make for an great day hike that’s both easy and full of charm. With its mix of quirky history, lush forest trails, and stunning Hood Canal views, this trail is a laid-back adventure that’s perfect for anyone looking to escape into nature for a few hours.