Merced,

3) Routes 120-140 Junction to Park Boundary (Merced Gorge)

Merced Gorge

Merced Gorge
Photo by Thomas O'Keefe taken 1236830400

Gauge Information

River Description

This section probably does not get paddled very much as it is discouraged / not allowed by Yosemite National Park. The first descent, described in Holbeck and Stanley was enabled by Yosemite local Tom Meagher who arranged special permission. Other parties have descended the river, and by modern standards it may be comparable to other very difficult rivers now commontly run. It is still likely that numerous portages remain.

Put in: topozone map, google map. Elevation = 3820 feet.

Alternate Access Points: The road is close to the river over much of this section though it climbs away below Arch Rock entrance station. There are numerous potential alternate access points. In the area near Cascade Creek the gradient and difficulty on the Merced is moderate.

Take out: Highway 140 comes back down to river level at the park boundary. There are two large turnouts for parking upstream of the motels. topozone map, google map. Elevation = 2120 feet.

The total drop in this section is about 1700 feet over 7 miles for an average gradient of 240 feet per mile.

Other Information Sources:

Yosemite Park: Merced River Plan/EIS

Yosemite Water Activities - Park rules on when and where you can boat.