Basics
- Length:
- 14 - 28 miles
- Aerobic Difficulty:
- Easy to Moderate
- Time To Allow:
- 3+ hours
- Season:
- Year Round
Description
The Merced River Trail, a rails to trails project that follows the old Yosemite Rail Road Grade, offers a mountain biking option in the Yosemite National Park area.
The Merced River Trail follows along the edge of the Merced River, which can flood the trail at times during spring run-off. Erosion and mudslides also can cause trail closures. Riders will enjoy the Merced River Trail’s easy grade through stands of Sugar Pine and past waterfalls. Rafters and boaters are a common sight along the way and the welcoming river is a perfect reprieve on a hot summer day.
The Merced River Trail can be ridden either one-way with a car shuttle or as an out and back. If ridden one way the most common start is in Briceburg since the trail from there is almost all downhill. Riders selecting the out and back can choose to climb uphill earlier or later in the ride.
Details
Length:
14 miles one way, 28 miles round trip
Difficulty:
Aerobic Difficulty:
Time To Allow:
Depends on route selected and fitness level
Season:
Additional Details:
The Merced River Trail is multi-use and riders should understand and practice appropriate right of way protocol. Riders should also carry a first aid kit, bike repair kit and extra water and food. A map will come in handy due to the number of trails in the area. The trail is flooded if the Merced River is over 820 CFS.
