At the confluence of the middle and south forks of the Merced River is the site of Major James Savage’s legendary 1849 trading post. Savage was the leader of the Mariposa Batallion, the first group of non-Indians to enter Yosemite Valley. This authentic trading post attracted prospectors, loggers and trappers during the California gold rush.

Eight, luxurious, extended-stay vacation homes and apartments are located there. Favorites include Cliff House, the Hunters’ Retreat, the Annex, the A-Frame, the Overlook Apartments and the Log Cabin. Savage’s Trading Post accommodates from 2 to 16 in any given home. All homes have private access to the south fork of the Merced River and the Hite Cove Trail (excluding fire season). The Hite Cove Trail is considered to be one of California’s finest wildflower trails (March to May). Savage’s Trading Post is 18 minutes west of Yosemite National Park on state route 140.