Yosemite River Rafting
Yosemite
is the most visited National Park and is usually the highlight of a visit
to California. Most people visit Yosemite Valley to view granite
cliffs, grand waterfalls, and Giant Sequoia. It's also known for the
nearby world-class rafting trips.
Both the Merced and Tuolumne Rivers start on Yosemite's highest point, Mount Lyell. These famous whitewater rivers start inside Yosemite National Park, but the sections most commonly rafted are outside the park.
The Merced - Class IV
One day trips great for first timers and families
The Merced is the river that drops over the famous Nevada and Vernal Falls before it meanders through Yosemite Valley. Just outside the park, the Merced has a long section of exciting whitewater.
The rapids are most fun in the spring when the water is high.
Learn more about the Merced River
Cherry Creek - Class V
Big rapids for thrill-seekers
Cherry Creek begins in Emigrant Wilderness and flows into Cherry lake before it meets the Tuolumne River. When rafting "Cherry Creek," you raft about 2 miles of the creek, but all of the significant Class V rapids are on the Wild and Scenic Tuolumne River.
The Tuolumne Class IV+
A two to three day wild and scenic adventure
The Tuolumne River drains the northern half of Yosemite and flows into Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. It then flows through several gorges before it enters one of the best sections of whitewater in the world.
It's possible to run the Tuolumne River in one day, but in order to truly enjoy the canyon it should be done in two or three days.
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