Merced River, California
| Price |
 What's this? |
| Class of Rapids |
III-IV |
| Trip Miles |
28 miles |
| Trip Duration |
1 to 2 days |
| Season |
April-June |
| Raft Type |
Paddle Raft, Oar Raft |
| River Sections |
Cranberry Gulch to Bagby |
| Nearby Towns |
El Portal (CA) |
| Driving Times |
San Francisco (CA): 4 hours |
| Recommended For |
Beginner, Spring |
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Just outside of Yosemite National Park, the Merced River features first-class early season whitewater through a picturesque canyon.
(courtesy, O.A.R.S.)
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The 28 miles of the Merced River from Red Bud to Bagby contains two sections of Class III-V rapids separated by a section of Class II-III rapids, with nine major rapids, including one nearly one-mile-long stretch (paradoxically named "quarter mile") and a mandatory portage. This Wild and Scenic River, prized for its free-flowing water, offers many exciting challenges for rafters with sufficient skill and experience.
The first eight-mile section, with six major rapids of Class III-IV, extends from Red Bud to Suspension. This is a difficult stretch of river. At certain water levels, rapids such as Stark Reality or Ned's Gulch can flip a 16-foot raft. Whitewater put-in or take-out points are located at Red Bud, Dry Gulch, and Cranberry.
The next eight-mile section, from Suspension to Split Rock Rapid, is considered easier than both the upstream and downstream reaches, and of medium difficulty. Deep pools are intersperse with shallow rapids of Class II and III difficulty. The only area for putting-in or taking-out between Suspension and Split Rock Rapid is at Briceburg, on Highway 140.
The last 12-mile stretch from Split Rock Rapid to Bagby includes at least one Class V rapid, a mandatory portage, and many Class III and IV Rapids. This part of the river is very difficult. Start above Split Rock Rapid, such as at Briceburg, to get a feel for the river before the rapids begin again. Whitewater boat access points are at McCabe Flat, Willow Placer, Railroad Flat, and Bagby, on Highway 49.
* Trip price reflects the average cost per day for a guided rafting adventure on a given river (
= $50-$100/day;
= $100-$250/day;
= $250 or more/day) and accounts for half-day, full-day, or multiday rafting excursions. Lodging, dining, and transportation costs (airfare, car rental/shuttle, equipment rentals, etc.) have not been factored into account. Please note that the trip price classification is intended to be an approximate guideline, as the range of prices on a given river can vary based on amenities, services, and customized add-ons offered through individual outfitters.
