Trail Map of China Hole Hike - Henry Coe State Park

Difficult: 10.0 miles, Full day

Other Information: Family Friendly

Overview: China Hole is one of the most popular destinations at Henry Coe State Park. Spring rains create a picturesque swimming hole at the confluence of two creeks, making the nearby backcountry campsite a prized locale for overnight outings.

A day hike to China Hole is a perfect alternative if you hate to sleep on the ground but love to get your heart pumping under the California sun. You'll also descend along the Madrone Soda Springs Trail and the Mile Trail, which passes the decaying remains of an era when the springs were a major tourist attraction.

Best time to go: spring, when the hills are green and the wildflowers are popping, and early summer, when it's warm enough to swim at China Hole. The water gets more dank as summer progresses -- the puddles remaining after July tend to reek.

Tips: China Hole helped cement Henry Coe's reputation for butt-kicker hikes. Don't go unless you know you can handle 10 miles with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain, with all the climb in last five miles

There's a lot of water on this route - Madrone Soda Springs Trail crosses a creek several times, and it borders on impossible to get across the creek at China Hole without getting your feet wet. Plan accordingly if you want to keep your feet dry.

Inspect your clothing for ticks -- they are very common in the springtime and can be a nuisance most of the year.

Watch for poison oak along narrow stretches of trail.

What to bring:
Sunscreen - much of this hike is unshaded
Clothing in layers; it's easy to overheat on Henry Coe's trails
Enough water for a six-hour outing
Snacks to keep your energy up
Camera
Hiking staff or poles if you use them.