The Merced River through Yosemite Valley has numerous beaches and swimming holes, depending on water levels, including along North Pines Campground (shuttle stops 18 or 19), the west end of Housekeeping Camp (shuttle stop 12), Devil’s Elbow (along Northside Drive) and Cathedral Beach (along Southside Drive).
Can you swim in the Merced River in Yosemite Valley?
River & Lake Swimming
A favorite for swimmers of all ages, the Merced River at the eastern end of Yosemite Valley offers soft, sandy beaches– perfect for spending an afternoon sunning and splashing. Tuolumne Meadows and the Park’s High Sierra Camps also have some wonderful, secluded swimming areas.
Can you swim in the Merced River?
Swimming in the Merced River is a popular way to cool off–but help protect the river by entering and exiting only on sandy beaches . Swimming in rivers is not without hazards, including swift currents, cold water, and hazards within the river (e.g., trees). See Water Safety for more information.
What can you do at Merced River?
The main fork of the Merced River is a great place for swimming, hiking, fishing, rafting, gold-panning, camping and general recreation during the summer months. It’s low elevation also makes it a great place for a day hike in the winter.
Can you swim in Yosemite waterfalls?
So, can you swim at Yosemite? Swimming is allowed in Yosemite National Park . The park has relaxing beaches, rivers, lakes and pools in a stunning natural setting you can access at your own risk. You can also take advantage of the public swimming pools if you’d like to have a lifeguard on duty.
Are there leeches in Yosemite?
LAKE YOSEMITE, Calif. — The heat and drought are being blamed for an increase in the presence of leeches in some outdoor swimming areas. ... Jensen said, “With the drought we just don’t have the water to fill the lake that normally would be there this time of the year.”
Are there any hot springs in Yosemite?
Located between Yosemite and Kings Canyon on the west slope of the Sierra’s you’ll find over a dozen natural mineral hot springs running along the south bank of the south fork of the San Joaquin River with cabins at the resort, a restaurant and camping. ... There are three ways of accessing the hot springs at Mono.
Does the Merced River dry up?
Much of the Merced River basin is at high elevation, where an alpine climate prevails. The Sierra receives heavy snowfall in the winter, which melts in the spring and early summer causing annual flooding. By late autumn the river level has dropped considerably, and some smaller tributaries dry up altogether.
Is there anywhere to swim in Yosemite?
Besides the outdoor pools available to the public during summer at Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge, swimming is generally permitted in all bodies of water in the park . There are some exceptions, however, where swimming is prohibited: ... Emerald Pool and Silver Apron (above Vernal Fall)
Is Mariposa Grove inside Yosemite?
Located in the southern portion of Yosemite , the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. ... Later added to Yosemite National Park in 1906, the Mariposa Grove is a popular destination within the park.
Is there gold in the Merced River?
The Merced River is an important gold-bearing river in northern California. The river flows through the heart of the Mother Lode, the richest gold regions in California.
Can you swim in Hetch Hetchy?
Water Quality: Swimming and boating are prohibited in Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in order to maintain a clean source of drinking water. ... Fishing: Fishing is allowed year-round in most lakes and the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and part of the year in most rivers and streams.
What fish are in the Merced River?
Merced River is a stream near Newman. The most popular species caught here are Largemouth bass, Spotted bass, and Channel catfish .
Has anyone died at Yosemite?
More than 50 people have died in and near Yosemite National Park waterfalls since 1851, according to the authors of the book “Off the Wall: Death in Yosemite,” who include a former search-and-rescue ranger and deputy coroner in the park. ... Four other national parks in California are in the top 15 by death rate.
Are bears a problem in Yosemite?
Attacks are rare , and no one has been killed or seriously injured by a black bear in Yosemite. The Yosemite bear management team places signs where a vehicle-bear collision has occurred in the park to educate drivers to slow down.
Are there snakes in Yosemite?
Snakes. Gartersnakes are the most common snake observed in the park. The park contains three species of gartersnakes, including the Sierra gartersnake. ... Of the 13 species of snakes found in Yosemite, only the Northern Pacific rattlesnake is venomous.
