Gallery photos coming soon

Points of Interest

Hite Cove Trail

Wildflower-lined riverside trail along the Merced near El Portal

(66)
El Portal, CA

About

Hite Cove Trail follows an old mining route above the Merced River just outside El Portal, and its reputation rests on one thing: wildflowers. Visitors who time it right in March and April describe fields of California poppies and more than 150 native plant species crowding the path down toward the river, which is why the trail draws a steady stream of day hikers and beginner backpackers each spring. With a 4.5-star average across 66 reviews, it's one of the more consistently well-reviewed hikes in the area — though several reviewers are blunt that outside of bloom season, it's a less compelling reason to leave the valley.

What Hikers Report

  • A moderate out-and-back along the Merced River — one reviewer clocked a full round trip near 9 miles, while others turned back earlier after 3 to 6 miles.
  • A short, steep section near the far end that several reviewers flag as requiring some scrambling — worth knowing before you commit to the full distance.
  • River access partway through, with reviewers mentioning swimming and cold-water dips on hot days — use normal caution around current and depth.

Best Time to Go

Reviewers agree: aim for spring, roughly March through April, for peak wildflowers, and skip it once temperatures climb past 80°F — several call the trail exposed and much less rewarding outside bloom season. Parking is described as being right across from the lodge in El Portal.

Good to Know

Pack at least 1-2 liters of water per person and wear proper footwear. Reviewers describe the trail as beginner-friendly for a first backpacking trip or a relaxing afternoon hike, but still a real, moderate trail rather than an easy stroll.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Hite Cove Trail?

Reviewers report a full out-and-back covering roughly 9 miles, though many turn back earlier for a shorter 3 to 6 mile round trip.

When is the best time to hike Hite Cove Trail?

Spring, especially March through April, when the wildflower bloom is at its peak. Reviewers recommend avoiding the trail once temperatures climb past 80°F.

Is Hite Cove Trail good for beginners?

Reviewers call it beginner-friendly for a day hike or first backpacking trip, though there's a short, steep section near the far end that involves some scrambling.

Is there river access along the trail?

Yes — the trail runs along the Merced River, and reviewers mention swimming and cold-water dips along the way. Use normal caution around current and depth.

Reviews (66)

See all on Google
4.5

66 reviews

Write a review
John P
John P

3 months ago

Hite Cove Trail: Spring Wildflower Guide Best Timing: Wildflowers start in mid-March, but peak season is typically late March to early April, depending on recent weather. Location & Parking: The trailhead is located on Highway 140, approximately one mile past the one-lane bridge (controlled by a traffic light). You can park in the small lot (capacity ~12 cars) directly across from the Yosemite Redbud Lodge. Trail Condition: Be prepared for a narrow, unmaintained path. The first two miles follow a cliffside above the South Fork of the Merced River; hikers with acrophobia should use caution. The Highlights: Miles 0–2: This is the most scenic stretch, featuring California poppies, lupine, fiddlenecks, and redbuds. Beyond Mile 2: The trail descends to the river and flowers become sparse. Full Distance: The trail is 4.5 miles one way (9 miles round-trip) with roughly 700 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers turn back after the first two miles unless they want to see the 19th-century mining ruins at the end. Essential Gear: The trail is mostly unshaded. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a camera—it is an incredibly photogenic location!

Darcy Faegre
Darcy Faegre

4 months ago

An extremely narrow trail with absolutely fantastic views. Starts out exceedingly difficult and then eases up for quite a while but still does a fair number of ups and downs. Riverviews mountain views flower views. Just views galore

Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan

4 months ago

I have walked many trails. I have been to Yosemite too many times to count. Always going through the 41 entrance. I wanted to take my oldest daughter on a Daddy Date Picnic before she gets married in May. She loves nature. I searched and found this hike but was not sure about anything. Reading the reviews, I was concerned that it might be underwhelming. But it was the opposite. God did not fail to amaze us. It was breathtaking. It will be on the top of my list of amazing and beautiful places I have visited. The pics do not communicate just how inspiring this place is. From the amazing, powerful Merced river, to over 150 species of flowers and plants(shout out to Mr Boyanist for that infor), to the small trees and bushes, to the rock formations, and even the amazing small trail that everyone stays on so as not to trample the flowers. After living in the Central Valley all my life, I cannot figure out why I did not hear about this place. Comparing Yosemite Valley to this, is comparing apples and oranges, but let me tell you, it rivals or surpasses the valleys diversity of beauty. I will be back at least once a year. The only negative will be the heat, if it is a warm day. But I would sweat for a chance to be among God's wonders. I would have started the trail early, 7 or 8 am. I went in middle March. Poppies were popping. Shout out to the friendly Botanists from California Native Plant Society Central Sierra Chapter. An older gentlemen who spoke with a twinkle in his eye, talking about this place. I appreciate you standing in the sun sweating as you passionately shared your love for plants and this trail. I did a cold plunged after 3 miles and lunch. We did a total of 6 miles. A beautiful memory for my daughter and I. Thank you Lord for creating this place.

Powered by Google