Cold Springs Nature Trail

Access to the Mineral King area via Mineral King Road closes for the winter in mid-November. Access typically reopens in later spring. The Cold Springs Nature Trail is a great option for visitors looking for an easier trail and staying at the Cold Springs Campground. Many of the hikes in the Mineral King area are long and steep. This route is a gentle hike 3 mile (4.8 km) hike with a 500-foot elevation gain and offers a taste of the Mineral King area. There are some great spots to stop and check out the water along the East Fork of the Kaweah River. There are also plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse of wildflowers and wildlife along the trail. This trail ends at the site of the historical mining town of Beula and the Eagle-Mosquito Trailhead. Mineral King became well-known because of the successful mines in the area. The historic buildings are reminders of this era. The trail features interpretive panels, which give more information about your surroundings. Safety Hiking at 7,500 feet and above is strenuous. Gauge your hiking to the least fit member of your party. During the early summer, mosquitoes can be a particular nuisance. Marmots can cause damage to your vehicle, so be prepared to protect it. As in all areas of the park, it is best to carry water, as the purity of the lakes and streams along the trails cannot be guaranteed. Location This trailhead begins at the Cold Springs Campground, only a few hundred feet from the Mineral King Ranger Station. Look for a wooden trailhead sign between sites 6 and 7. Parking There is a small parking lot at the Mineral King Ranger Station. Visitors can park there then walk into the campground to begin the hike.