Gauge Conditions

Merced River a Happy Isles Bridge near Yosemite CA Downstream Primary

Runnable: 150.0 – 500.0 CFS

200-300 is the sweet spot below Merced Lake

Data from American Whitewater & USGS

CDEC Flow Data California

MERCED RIVER POH Primary

Elevation: 3,862 ft

MERCED RIVER HIB Primary

Elevation: 4,016 ft

MERCED RIVER MLK Primary

Elevation: 7,300 ft

Data from California Data Exchange Center (CDEC)

Photo

Photo courtesy of American Whitewater

Description

Put In is the initial entry point for the upper Merced River run, marking the start of a challenging alpine descent through narrow, boulder-strewn terrain. The rapid presents immediate technical navigation challenges with tight entry lines between submerged rocks and potential undercut hazards, requiring precise boat positioning and swift decision-making from the outset. Early season flows can dramatically alter the rapid's character, so careful scouting and current water levels are critical for safe passage.