About BLACKSMITH FORK GUARD STATION
Overview Blacksmith Fork Guard Station is located in the Cache National Forest, approximately 11 miles east of Hyrum, in northern Utah. The Guard Station was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934 as part of the New Deal Program. Early Forest Service stations were typically spaced a "days ride by horseback" from each other. The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forests has decided to rent the cabin to the public so visitors can enjoy a rustic experience similar to that of early Forest Rangers and their families. Recreation A variety of hiking, biking, horseback riding and off-road vehicle trails crisscross the surrounding area. The cabin is less than one mile from the Richards Hollow Trailhead and Friendship Campground.Facilities The Guard Station complex can sleep 5 people inside the cabin and no more than 4 tents outside. There is also room for a small travel trailer in the driveway. No vehicles are permitted on the grass.Natural Features The small green and white cabin sits on the bank of the Left Hand Fork of the Blacksmith Fork River at an elevation of 5,400 feet. It is surrounded by box elder and oak trees with the steep canyon wall behind the cabin covered in Douglas fir trees. Nearby Attractions Hardware Ranch Wildlife Management Area is approximately 5-miles southeast along the main fork of the Blacksmith Fork River and State Route 101.
How to Get There
From Logan, Utah, drive south on US 89 for approximately 1 mile then merge left onto State Route 165. Travel south for about 5.8 miles then turn left onto State Route 101 and follow it east up Blacksmith Fork Canyon for approximately 9 miles. Turn left into Left Hand Fork Canyon and travel approximately 3 miles on the improved gravel road to the Guard Station.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to BLACKSMITH FORK GUARD STATION
Heading to BLACKSMITH FORK GUARD STATION? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for BLACKSMITH FORK GUARD STATION?
No central reservation system listed for BLACKSMITH FORK GUARD STATION. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251565) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BLACKSMITH FORK GUARD STATION?
From Logan, Utah, drive south on US 89 for approximately 1 mile then merge left onto State Route 165. Travel south for about 5.8 miles then turn left onto State Route 101 and follow it east up Blacksmith Fork Canyon for approximately 9 miles. Turn left into Left Hand Fork Canyon and travel approximately 3 miles on the improved gravel road to the Guard Station.
How do I contact BLACKSMITH FORK GUARD STATION?
You can reach the park at phone: 435-755-3620 or email: uwc_info@fs.fed.us.
References & Official Resources
