Hiking Trail or Trailhead 
Hite Cove along the Merced River
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Photo © Charles Philips
Wildflowers, wildflowers, wildflowers. A gorgeous walk along the South Fork of the Merced River during the Spring. The roar of the rushing river and colorful hillside of many spring wildflowers are a combination that makes Mariposa a great place for the spring hike.
The hike is approximately 20 miles from Mariposa on Highway 140 toward Yosemite National Park. There is a sign for the trail-head at Savage's Trading Post. The hike starts on private property and then most of the trail is the Sierra National Forest. The trail itself is marked. It's relatively flat, but on a narrow path. Footing is good, with the exception of a few places where rocks are your steps.
Vertical Gain or Loss: Not much. It's a trail parallel to the Merced River about 200 feet above the water in a canyon.
Trail Distance: It's a wildflower hike and as such is for examining the flowers and their habitat. The trail will gain altitude if you want to walk to Jerseydale. I have never gone that far but many have made it a day adventure.
Eco-Friendly NotesIt's a hike!
photos
David wrote on March 18, 2011: Beautiful drive up to Mariposa and then Hite Cove. Great hike, although not as many different species of wildflowers as anticipated. While in Mariposa, I was told that the trail may be closed due to private property. Last year they did not renew the memorandum for the access. It is open! Please respect private property-the first 3/4 mile of trail. I thought it was worth the hike, maybe more wildflowers in the next couple weeks? Redbud is blooming. Dave
David wrote on March 17, 2011: Planning on hiking the trail today (March 17). Let you know the status of wildflowers.
Mark wrote on March 08, 2011: Can anyone tell me please if the wild flowers have started to bloom yet along the Hite Trail? Any info to this is truly appreciated. Thank you -
Michael O. wrote on February 01, 2011: During certain periods of the year local residents must close trail access once fire danger rises, usually near the beginning of July. It usually opens once fire season closes, generally in October. Check at the local Forest Service offices in Mariposa or Oakhurst, or the National Park Service visitor center in Yosemite Valley about trail accessibility.