Rafting yosemite May 23, 2022 · After many successful group trips, we’ve got the plans down pat. 5 hours from San Francisco, 40 minutes from Yosemite. For a multi-day trip, raft the Tuolumne, one of the best whitewater rafting experiences in the country, says Steve Markle, a spokesman for OARS. River class: 3-4; Trip length: 1/2 Day, 1 Day Aug 31, 2023 · Rafting is also allowed on the South Fork of the Merced River below Swinging Bridge (in Wawona). The most popular Looking for rafting near Yosemite? For over 50 years Sierra Mac has guided guests on Yosemite rafting trips. Whitewater rafting in Yosemite National Park is one of the many adventures you will want to add to your itinerary. The river provides awesome thrills in the beautiful setting of Yosemite Valley, beneath the iconic features of Half Dome and El Capitan. For details go to: the Yosemite Park Rafting page. 9 (90) After plunging more than 1,400 feet over Yosemite Falls and winding gently through Yosemite Valley, the Merced River still has something left for us, namely: great whitewater. Near the Yosemite Valley, Whitewater Excitement guides tours along the Merced River, a springtime classic, big waves and splashes are promised for this challenging Class 4 run. Consider combining a Merced River rafting one-day trip with a day or two spent exploring adjacent Yosemite National Park for the perfect California adventure vacation. Floating Down the Merced River Directions to Cherry Creek/Upper Tuolumne Rafting Trip Meeting Place Sierra Mac River Trips at Colfax Spring • 27890 CA HWY 120, Groveland, CA 95321 If coming from the west, after you pass Buck Meadows look for the Vista Point/Rim of the World overlook on your left, followed by Packard Canyon Road on your right. Commercial rafting permits limit trip size to just 20 persons. Our meeting place for the Merced is now 9. One-day intermediate to advanced rafting trips with O. This exhilarating stretch of river is accompanied by a vibrant bloom of wildflowers carpeting the Merced River’s broad canyon floor. Find adventurous Yosemite activities with our guide. Rafting Near Yosemite. Located just outside the entrance to Yosemite National Park, the spectacular Wild and Scenic Merced river tumbles and twists out of the spectacular Yosemite Valley offering an exhilarating river rafting trip down big rapids filled with huge wave-trains and hydraulics. The Merced River totals over 122 miles through the Sierra Nevada. On the Merced river, the closest river to Yosemite, we offer both morning and afternoon 11 mile 1/2 day trips, plus full day trips every day. Spring into early summer is the best time of year to enjoy rafting in the Sierra Nevada as the snowfall melts causing the waterfalls and rivers to flow full, strong and fast. Whether it's whitewater rafting and scaling sheer rock faces or peaceful hiking and relaxation in scenic swimming holes, Yosemite has adventure activities in store for every traveler. Most people don’t realize there’s world-class whitewater rafting right outside Yosemite’s back door. There is Class I+ commercial float trip option for those without equipment. Spilling from the highlands of Yosemite National Park, the Wild & Scenic Tuolumne River is often considered California’s premier whitewater rafting trip. Escape Tuolumne whitewater rafting is a thrill-packed one-day adventure that’s the perfect add-on to any Yosemite National Park vacation. Only two commercial trips are allowed down the nearly continuous stretch of class IV rapids per day, making for a remote and pristine experience. The Nov 8, 2024 · As we said at the beginning, Yosemite/ Gold Country offers lots of rafting choices with adventures ranging from mellow float trips to Class V+ rapids. Their experienced guides are privileged to host your Yosemite rafting trip. Yosemite Scenic Wonders provides cabin, home, and condominium rentals inside historic Yosemite. Yosemite Whitewater with Sierra Mac - 2025 is LIVE. aft with the first outfitter to lead commercial rafting trips on the rivers flowing from California’s Yosemite National The Merced’s spring and early summer rafting season coincides with peak waterfall viewing season in Yosemite. Mar 9, 2025 · The Merced River has Class 3 and 4 rapids, which are intense waters that make for exciting rafting. Founded in 1965, our professional, local guides are your experts in Class 5 Tuolumne Whitewater! It's true what they say about the Merced River in Yosemite, you get views of Half Dome, El Cap, and Yosemite Falls that cannot be matched! For us the journey is the experience! Anyway, take the breaks out of your run and you could easily do this river (with paddling) in 30/45m. Highways 140, 120, and 49 are in close proximity. Float through Yosemite National Park for a rafting trip that is truly remarkable and leaves you wanting more. May 11, 2021 · The perfect complement to your Yosemite mountain getaway. Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions is the largest whitewater rafting outfitter on the Merced River, just minutes away from Yosemite Valley. This is a seasonal activity in spring and early summer only. Add a rafting trip to your Yosemite National Park visit to discover more of California’s majestic beauty. Tuolumne River Rafting Near Yosemite National Park 2 or 3 Days 4. California’s Best Whitewater Rafting Experience Near Yosemite National Park. If you’re looking to pair a visit to Yosemite National Park with rafting on the Merced River, here’s a page from our book: Day 1 (Get a Head Start) Arrive in the afternoon to settle in and catch the sunset. Breathtaking views and unforgettable moments guaranteed. Beat the heat with a whitewater rafting trip with a company like OARS. With a good snow pack year, the season can last anywhere from the middle of July to the end of August. . The classic High Sierra waterfalls merge in Yosemite Valley, and just below the park boundary lies a beautiful and exciting section of class 3-4 whitewater. Trip Highlights Rafting on the Wild & Scenic Merced River through a rugged canyon speckled with grassy hillsides, manzanita, oak, pine trees & abundant wildflowers in the spring Whitewater Excitement specializes in California rafting adventures. Too late for sunset? Appreciate the starshine sans city lights! I'm looking at the following companies for rafting. The Commercial rafting permits are limited to just 20 persons and 18 miles of roadless isolation ensures a true wilderness experience – far from the crowds in nearby Yosemite Valley. Looking for Yosemite whitewater rafting? We were the first outfitter to guide on the Merced and Tuolumne Rivers and specialize in Yosemite rafting trips. Jul 5, 2019 · Other Activities to Pair Your River Float within Yosemite. Flowing from the heart of Yosemite National Park, the Merced River offers up unforgettable whitewater rafting thrills. Let nature refresh your soul with an explosion of redbud and poppies that color the rugged canyon. 3. Tumbling from the spectacular Yosemite Valley, the Merced River beckons the outdoor lover each spring, while its continuous rapids challenges even the veteran rafters who dare experience Yosemite white water rafting. Founded in 1965, Sierra Mac is a locally-based, family-owned business. Yosemite itself does not offer whitewater rafting, but companies just outside of the park, like Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions, are fully insured experts who are going to provide some truly excellent whitewater thrills. Mar 11, 2025 · Rafting in Yosemite offers you a fresh way to view the park’s iconic landmarks, such as Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, from a perspective few get to experience. Day trips usually cost $159. Raft rentals in Yosemite National Park are operated by park concessionaire . Only on the Merced can you experience world class whitewater in the morning , and iconic Yosemite Valley in the afternoon. The 11-14 miles of rafting on the Merced is typically class 3 (rated 1-5, with 5 being most challenging) and includes memorable rapids with names like Terminator, Grand Slam and Split Rock! Nov 17, 2017 · The Merced River carves its own waterways through Yosemite National Park, including in the Yosemite Valley and around Wawona. Perfect for 2 to 4 people, mid-July to August. Action packed whitewater just minutes from the entrance to Yosemite National Park. Sierra Mac River Rafting Trips specializes in Yosemite rafting trips. You and your paddling crew will enjoy a personal adventure you will remember for a lifetime. If you'll be boating in Yosemite, please be aware of the following regulations: All lakes other than Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and some rivers (described below) are open to non-motorized vessels. Every person must have a personal flotation device immediately available for each occupant of the raft/boat (and children under age 13 must be wearing one). It screams serenity and your Yosemite surroundings make this river rafting dream seem like a dream. This is a free-flowing river and it feels like it; the water is cold, the rapids are frisky, and the river and rapids change daily as the snow melts. Kayaking is a popular way to enjoy the calm waters of Tenaya Lake. Our 1, 2 and 3 day trips begin at Meral’s Pool, a quiet spot in the river about 23 miles downstream from Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and end at Ward’s Ferry Bridge 18 miles later. Not only are the Yosemite views amazing; Merced River is a hidden jewel in itself. California Rafting in May and June will have you challenging raucous, mile-long Class III and IV rollercoaster wave trains. Raft rentals in Yosemite National Park are operated by park concessionaire. Further north, near the park’s Big Oak Flat Entrance and the charming community of Groveland, OARS offers 1- to 3-day Tuolumne River rafting trips. Just two and half-hours from Sacramento and only three hours from San Francisco, Cherry Creek is close to many metropolitan areas. Kayaking, rafting, packrafting, or tubing the Merced River is an incredible way to experience the grandeur of Yosemite Valley. Apr 23, 2025 · Rafting in Yosemite is a great experience for any age, background, or fitness level. Depending on what time of year you visit, the river might be a frozen ice floe, a babbling stream, or a wild beast flooding campsites and picnic areas. Yosemite river rafting takes you through some spectacular scenery, and the Merced is one of the most scenic of all. Closest Rafting to Yosemite valley Designated as a National Wild and Scenic River, the Merced offers world class whitewater right at the boundary of Yosemite National Park. For the rest of the season, this first-class pool-and-drop river The most popular location for rafting near Yosemite is located 35 miles west of Yosemite Valley, off Highway 140. A scenic drive towards Sacramento, Lake Tahoe, and Sequoia will bring to one of our rafting locations. Whatever your preference, the joys of river rafting await you in Yosemite National Park. There are no rafting trips directly within Yosemite, but many options nearby. Floatation devices are an absolute necessity for everyone in your Jun 28, 2022 · Experienced paddlers with kayaks, canoes, or whitewater rafts have access to many portions of Yosemite's rivers. In spring its green hillsides are covered with numerous wildflowers such as golden poppies, purple lupine, and wild irises that explode with color and make the area intensely beautiful. Outdoor adventure is unlimited at Yosemite National Park. From beginner 1/2 day trips to multi-day class V whitewater adventures, the Merced, Main Tuolumne and Cherry Creek offer some of the best rafting trips in the West. Where to go Whitewater Rafting. Our adventure vacations include whitewater rafting trips, sea kayaking, hiking, & more. Located just outside of Yosemite National Park, the Tuolumne River provides one of the finest all-around whitewater rafting trip experiences in the country. Aramark, the concessionaire for Yosemite National Park, runs the Curry Village raft rental program for this White Water Rafting in Yosemite. Apr 22, 2022 · There is a short window of when the Merced river is open every year for rafting and you don't want to miss it. They have more Merced River trip launch dates and guide more people down Yosemite’s Merced River than any other California whitewater rafting outfitter. Tenaya Lake. Veteran rafters and adventurous novices alike enjoy long rapids and big rolling waves of this roller coaster like ride. Book your trip today! Merced River Rafting. Glide down the lazy Merced River in the Yosemite valley in summer, or face churning whitewater thrills of the Tuolumne River following the spring thaw. com Merced River – Yosemite National Park Experience Yosemite’s Wild & Scenic River. THE YOSEMITE VALLEY FLOAT is closed for 2024. A. This river is the perfect lazy river to float on. For lodging between Groveland and Yosemite: Evergreen Lodge is located just north of Yosemite off Highway 120, and offers a rustic, historical stay in its recently remodeled cabins. There are two main locations for river rafting – in Yosemite Valley where the ride is smoother, and outside the park on the Merced River where the runs can be Level 2 to 4 depending on the water conditions and time of year. It is a unique way to enjoy this river and see amazing sights inside Yosemite Valley. With the river floating only taking a few hours, I recommend pairing the experience with something else while in Yosemite to make a day of it. Whitewater rafting on the Tuolumne is a truly unique way to explore the Yosemite region. Consider combining a Merced River rafting trip with a day or two spent exploring adjacent Yosemite National Park for the perfect California adventure vacation. While spring snowmelt can bring some serious flow, Yosemite river rafting during the summer months is typically a calmer — and warmer — experience. In fact, it is fun and exciting for all types of people. Pronounced “too-all-uh-me,” and affectionately referred to as “the T,” it’s one of our “Seven Whitewater Wonders” of the World. Here are a couple of not-too-intense ideas: Raft the Merced River in the Yosemite Valley; Rent or bring bikes to ride around the Yosemite Valley Feb 4, 2016 · Planning a rafting trip near Yosemite: Yosemite is a popular vacation destination for travelers coming from near and far. 3 miles north of Midpines Post Office on your left. Several companies provide rafting tours throughout the park in all seasons. We have some tips on how to prepare for this drift down the river with small children. I'll check online reviews and such but If anyone has good or bad experiences with any of these companies I'd like to know beforehand. April through Early-June: Spring is the prime season for Merced River rafting, when melting Yosemite mountain snows create nearly continuous rapids. Families with children should opt for the safer confines of the Merced inside Yosemite or on the Stanislaus below Knights Ferry. The Merced River . Yosemite Whitewater Rafting - Top-rated guided river trips near California's Yosemite National Park including the Merced River, the Tuolumne River and more. See full list on myyosemitepark. Starting back in 1978, Norm and his guides have taken over 155,000 happy customers down the river. The Yosemite rafting season varies from year to year and depends on factors such as the depth of the rivers, the temperature of the water and the seasonal snowmelt. Float your own boat. R. The Main Tuolumne was declared a National Wild & Scenic River by Congress in 1984. This Wild and Scenic River crashes down from the High Sierra peaks in Yosemite to provide rafters with an 18-mile stretch of nearly non-stop, white-knuckle Class III-IV whitewater. Rafting on the mostly quiet water sections of the Merced river in Yosemite Valley has restrictions as to when you can raft (in warm weather months, when the water is not too high to safely go under bridges), where you can raft (on only one three +/- mile stretch, not the whole length of the river), and other rules for your safety and the health of the river. They were the first outfitter on the Merced River and the pioneer in opening Class V Cherry Creek to commercial rafting. Our trip meeting location is also close enough to the Central Valley (just 1 hour from Merced) to draw visitors from throughout California. Self-guided rafts on Yosemite Valley’s Merced River are available seasonally on a first come – first served basis. Rafting Season. Yosemite Valley Rafting Take a fun and relaxing scenic float on the Merced River through Yosemite Valley. Jul 13, 2024 · Tuolumne, Merced and Cherry Creek/Upper Tuolumne. This impressive river starts in Yosemite’s pristine High Country, explodes through the iconic Nevada and Vernal Falls, then leisurely winds through Yosemite Valley and continues outside of the Park where it picks up speed and transforms into a rafting adventure. It’s easy to find the right trip or tour to suit each visitor even if it is only for one day. Our trips range in length from 1/2 to 3-days. Even with a Class III-IV level of difficulty, kids starting from twelve years-old can still enjoy this activity, making rafting in Merced perfect for the whole family. Spectacular scenery, thrilling Class IV rapids, great side hikes, and beautiful white-sand beaches are hidden inside an 18-mile stretch of pristine canyon. 4 miles northeast of Mariposa on Highway 140 (Look for our signs 1. Feb 20, 2019 · Whitewater rafting on the Merced River offers visitors to Mariposa County a chance to combine the serenity of nature with the thrill of adrenaline! For those looking to enhance their Yosemite vacation beyond sightseeing and hiking, a rafting trip at Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions is the perfect activity for active adventurers. S. For details go to: the Yosemite Park Rafting page . Family and group rates, and internet special discounts are available. To experience this activity with your young kids, it will take some planning ahead of time. In later season the bouncing rapids of the river provide a fun way to beat the heat. Raft on the Merced River in the springtime, or ride the legendary rapids of the Wild and Scenic Tuolumne River, including the iconic Upper Tuolumne / Cherry Creek. As you float down the Merced River or tackle the Tuolumne’s rapids , you’ll feel the rush of the water as you soak in views which feel almost cinematic. Explore other Yosemite whitewater rafting trip options. Indeed, the Merced river offers one of the best whitewater rafting paddle-boat trips in California. Tuolumne River rafting, available just outside Yosemite National Park, is a standard-setter among all the California whitewater rafting experiences OARS offers. River Rafting in Yosemite National Park Yosemite hosts 12 miles of bike tracks throughout the park. OARS RIVER RAFTING WHITEWATER EXCITEMENT SIRRA MAC RIVER RAFTING TRIPS ZEPHYR WHITEWATER EXPEDITIONS Thanks in advance! Planning a rafting trip near Yosemite: Yosemite is a popular vacation destination for travelers coming from near and far. The 11-14 miles of rafting on the Merced is typically class 3 (rated 1-5, with 5 being most challenging) and includes memorable rapids with names like Terminator, Grand Slam and Split Rock! Jul 22, 2013 · Spring fever arrives early on the Merced River with Yosemite snows melting fast and furiously. The Merced River flows through Yosemite Valley and down past El Portal, providing long stretches of rapids and steep drops guaranteed to give even the most experienced rafters a We offer river rafting trips near Yosemite on the Merced, Kings, and Tuolumne rivers. We were the first outfitter on the Merced and Tuolumne Rivers and the pioneer in Class V commercial rafting on Cherry Creek! May 29, 2022 · Rafting Yosemite National Park. The closest whitewater rafting destination to world famous waterfalls of Yosemite National Park, the Merced River is characterized by a steep gradient and few obstacles to hinder a raft’s momentum. Sierra Mac specializes in Tuolumne River Rafting, Merced River Rafting and Yosemite Rafting Trips. Redwoods in Yosemite offers year-round vacation home rentals. Rent a bike at either Yosemite Lodge (year-round, weather permitting) or Curry Village (summer only) or take your own with you! Nov 30, 2024 · Experience the magic of Yosemite with a lazy river rafting trip! This guide helps first-timers plan a safe and memorable adventure on the serene waterways. Make a splash rafting in Yosemite! Enjoy a 3-mile float on the Merced River, cool off and take in stunning views. Rafting in Yosemite can be arranged through many different companies or even on your own. Popular areas for rafting near Yosemite: Oct 31, 2024 · Tuolumne River Rafting near Yosemite. vmd qmgor gygr cuiab nkssmrs zgyuwwx ixfe tmnh xsxzvx lop