Rafting on the Merced River

Rafting along the Merced River is popular during summer. You can rent a raft during June and July, but rental times varies from year to year, depending on water level of the river. If you are interested in using your own whitewater equipment and gear an excellent place to obtain it is www.outdoorplay.com/ for best buys of quality kayaks, rafts and equipment

Inside Yosemite National Park, rafting is permitted on the Merced River between Stoneman Bridge (near Curry Village) and Sentinel Beach Picnic Area between 10 am and 6 pm under the following conditions: the river stage (depth) must read less than 6.5 feet at Sentinel Bridge and the sum of air temperature and water temperature must be more than 100°F. You must have a personal flotation device immediately available for each occupant of the raft. Enjoy this while you can as there is a plan in the works that may limit this type of activity in the park.

Rafting is also permitted on the South Fork of the Merced River in the Wawona area and depends on the water levels. There are no kayak or raft rentals in this area. So bring your own tube, air mattress or other floats, be advised the water in the Wawona area and the Merced River is very cold. Some visitors enjoy kayaking the calm waters of Tenaya Lake. Outside of Yosemite National Park you may whitewater raft or kayak at any time and almost at any place.