It's Flowing, So Get Going!

Spring Rivers Waterfall and Lakes in Yosemite Mariposa

05.16.2019
Sponsored

Adventure Rafting!

A rollicking rafting trip on the Merced River goes only in spring and early summer—and this is a year not to be missed! Combine a rafting adventure with visiting Yosemite Valley. The river runs from Class 2 to 4, but after peak snowmelt like we’re seeing it’s running high and fast—Class 3 to 4. Who’s game?

Lakeside Camping

Forget the crowded elbowing for campsites and cabins and get to Mariposa County’s less known but absolutely beautiful Lake McClure and its baby sister Lake McSwain. Close to Yosemite Valley but with a far-way feel, both these lakes can be entered at Merced Falls, about 27 miles from Merced and 25 miles from the town of Mariposa. McClure Point Campground and Lake McSwain have swimming, boat rentals, and all the creature comfort amenities for easy overnights!

Waterfall Hikes

Now is an ideal time to hike to two of Yosemite’s classic falls—Vernal and Nevada. They’re absolutely thundering these days, and the trails are less busy than in summer. (Get an early morning start to maximize solitude!)

Stay & Eat in Mariposa

Mariposa County has plenty of awesome lodging. Friendly and artisan, this gold rush town has plenty of dining options, and there’s a super popular craft brew scene. Just an hour from Yosemite via Highway 140, this route is one of California’s most scenic canyon drives: waterfalls spill over the canyon walls, wildflowers carpet the hills, and the fast-flowing Merced River parallels the road.

Check out Yosemite Mariposa County’s website for lodging and outdoor adventure ideas.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman walking down the stairs overlooking the ocean on the Coastal Trail in San Francisco

    America's Best Urban Hike

    Long ago we dubbed it the “Grand Walk” and said it was one of the most scenic and stunning trails in the West. We were wrong. This is the most scenic urban hike in America!

    View

  2. Hike or Bike the Skyline

    A new section of the Bay Area Ridge Trail is open for biking, hiking, or horseback riding along the 12-mile (out-and-back) Skyline Watershed Ridge Trail.

    View
  3. Woman riding a bike on the the Vine Trail in Napa Valley

    Through the Grapevine

    Cycle California’s most famous wine valley on the car-free Vine Trail, an ambitious project going through the heart of Napa Valley. Park your car and ride 6 miles from Napa to Yountville for lunch.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Stars, Steaks, and Strange Brews

    Forget Michelin stars. Deep in Oregon's high desert, legendary Cowboy Dinner Tree is destination dining at its most deliciously down-to-earth, well worth the required reservation and desert drive to reach it.

    View

  2. Outback to the Future

    Some must-see destinations are written in the stars. Deep in Oregon's remote southern high desert lies the largest certified International Dark Sky Sanctuary on the planet. With 2.5 million acres of protected dark skies, you get the best of the celestial out here in what's known as the Oregon Outback, including geothermal soaks and an incredible playa that's a hidden gem.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Extra-Celestial Central Oregon

    Some trips promise you the moon and the stars. And this one delivers in a big way, plus throws in some extra planets for your viewing pleasure. From Bend, Sunriver, and Sisters to Antelope Basecamp in the remote high desert.

    View