Big Creek
The Middle Gorge Section
| Difficulty | V |
| Length | 2 mi |
| Avg Gradient | n/a |
| Gauge | Nf Willow C Nr Sugar Pine Ca |
| Flow Rate as of 6119 days | 416 cfsstale data |
| Reach Info Last Updated | January 19, 2010 |
The Overview of Big Creek:
Big Creek is just west of Wawona in Yosemite National Park and runs into the South Fork of the Merced just upstream of the Wawona Campground. The Middle Gorge has 5 waterfalls worth paddling and is only about 150 yards long. A common procedure is to run the falls in the gorge several times, then carry back up to your car. The first descent party reported that continuing down the creek to the SF Merced was not worth doing and most subsequent parties took their word for it. Recently, Chris Tulley reported that the rest of the creek down to the South Merced is excellent which prompted explanations from members of the first descent party.
Late April or Early May is the likely season. When the SF Merced is high, this creek is worth a look.
Getting There: Take Highway 41 to Wawona inside Yosemite National Park. Turn onto Chowchilla Mt Road. If you're coming in from the Fresno area (or south), you'll make a left hand turn onto this road that runs across the golf course. This road is not very wide and at first glance looks like its for golf carts only. But quickly widens and turns into a dirt road that crosses Big Creek in about two miles. GPS Coordinates at Google Maps.
Many people will drive or hike in and just run the Middle Gorge several times. It's like park and play for creekers. Another option is to put in at Fish Camp and run the 2 miles down to the middle Gorge. As seen here: Big Creek (Chowchilla Mountain Road to S.F. Merced River)
First 400 yards: The best parking spot is just across the small wooden bridge, putting in on river left, just pass t
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