Merced,

1) Stables to El Cap Meadow (Yosemite Valley)

Usual Difficulty	I (may vary with level)

Gauge Information

Name	Range	Difficulty	Updated	Level
MERCED R A POHONO BRIDGE NR YOSEMITE CA
usgs-11266500	200 - 2400 cfs	I	00h34m	49 cfs (rc= -0.1 )

River Description

Floating on the Merced River is one the nicest ways of viewing Yosemite Valley. A slow float trip allows one to stare at the cliffs and waterfalls for long periods and appreciate the more subtle aspects. The roads are far enough away that the traffic noise is much reduced; even absent in spots. The river is wide enough and trees are far enough back to allow wonderful views of the valley walls. During summer, the Curry company rents small rafts for people to float on the river. During the afternoons the river get congested. Experienced boaters will tend to prefer spring floats in order to view the waterfalls at their peaks. The rangers will tend to be discouraging at this time of year though. Floating is legal as long as there is enough space for floaters to pass underneath the Sentinal bridge.

Most of the float is flatwater, but there are sections of swiftwater, especially in the beginning. In spots, when there is higher flow, there can even be modest little waves.

Other Information Sources:
Yosemite Park: Merced River Plan/EIS
Yosemite Water Activities
CaCreeks River Guide - Merced thru Yosemite Valley