The Merced River Trail and Recreation Area is about 12 miles north of Mariposa and near the entrance to Yosemite National Park. It provides overflow or alternative camping for park visitors, as well as a beautiful setting for river enthusiasts.
The best times to visit are spring and summer. Many commercial raft outfitters, licensed and supervised by BLM, offer trips on the Merced River.
The 18-mile Merced River Trail for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders follows the old Yosemite Railroad grade from the Briceburg Visitor Center along the north side of the river to the Highway 49 bridge at Bagby.
The trail is ungroomed and for the most part ungraded. Three campgrounds are available along the trail (see website).
Pets must be leashed in developed areas and are not allowed at the McCabe Beach swimming area. And of course, please always pick up after your dog.