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Enjoy spectacular views and wildflowers in the spring, along the South Fork of the Merced River.


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Map Key

3.5

Miles

5.6

KM

Point to Point

1,620' 494 m

High

1,430' 436 m

Low

537' 164 m

Up

363' 111 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

25%

Max Grade (14°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Historical Significance · River/Creek · Spring · Wildflowers

Description

The trailhead is approximately 100 ft from Savage's Trading Post. There will be a sign which points you in the direction of the trail. The initial part of the trail is somewhat steep. In addition, the first 0.75 miles of the trail traverses private property so respect is of utmost importance as always should be, whether in private or public land.

The trail is on the north side of the river so shade is minimal. The trail contours along the side of a mountain and is about 2 feet wide. It offers spectacular views of the South Fork of the Merced River and the surrounding Sierra Nevada National Forest. There is an abundance of wildflowers in the spring which look spectacular. The trail ends at Hite Cove and meets the Hites Cove Mine Rd. which you can follow down to CA route 140. Bug repellent is recommended.

Contacts

Shared By:

Rafael Maravilla with improvements by Mariposa Trails

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 6 votes

#7947

Overall
  4.5 from 6 votes
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Trail Rankings

#661

in California

#7,947

Overall
26 Views Last Month
1,547 Since Oct 9, 2016
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

South Fork of the Merced River on the Hite's Cove Trail upstream of "swirly-stripped rock."
Dec 5, 2022 near Midpines, CA
South Fork of the Merced River along the Hite's Cove Trail.
Dec 14, 2020 near Midpines, CA
View to the southwest on Hites Cove Trail in the fall.
Oct 9, 2016 near Midpines, CA
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 66 days ago
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

Dec 30, 2017
bachr c
7.4mi — 2h 53m
May 1, 2017
Jeff Nye
1.7mi
Apr 8, 2017
Babu Jadam
Heavy rain during middle of the trail
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