The Merced River is a river of contrasts. Gentle through Yosemite and rough through the fierce canyons farther south, there's something in the river for beginners and daredevils both, as well as the rafter who likes a little relaxation between intense whitewater hits.
The Merced River is birthed by a waterfall and runs over at least one impassable cascade through the course of its length. This certainly keeps the river mad, wild and exciting throughout large stretches of the river. It also keeps it fresh and clear even in the quiet segments. This is one of California's mellow trout fishing rivers, popular with anglers.
However, it's the white caps on the river's churn that draw the rafters. You can expect almost constant rapids from Red Bud to Briceburg and Briceburg to Bagby; one of these stretches - the Quarter Mile Rapid - is tough and scary enough to make the average Class IV rapid runner consider a portage. Not every rapid is so terrifying - the northern stretch of the river, from Red Bug to Briceburg, has a little more in the way of "take a little breather" Class II and III rapids.
The best of California whitewater rafting is what you will find at Zephyr Whitewater. Since 1973, we have offered exceptional California whitewater trips on the Kings, Tuolumne, Merced, and American rivers, all near Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and Kings Canyon/Sequoia National Parks. Our California whitewater rafting trips are great for families, for the first-timer rafter, and for the advanced thrill seeker.
The best of California whitewater rafting is what you will find at Zephyr Whitewater. Since 1973, we have offered exceptional California whitewater trips on the Kings, Tuolumne, Merced, and American rivers, all near Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and Kings Canyon/Sequoia National Parks. Our California whitewater rafting trips are great for families, for the first-timer rafter, and for the advanced thrill seeker.
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Lake Havasu City Western Arizona
Lake Havasu City
Western ArizonaWelcome to Lake Havasu City…where you can Play Like You Mean It®! Located on the Arizona shoreline of Lake Havasu, Lake Havasu City is a destination for boaters, water sport enthusiasts, hikers, nature lovers, car enthusiasts and history buffs. It attracts 775,000 visitors a year with its calm waters, beautiful beaches and desert weather with more than 300 sunny days a year. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Utah - Life Elevated Statewide
Utah - Life Elevated
StatewideWith five national parks and more than 40 state parks, Utah offers a wealth of outdoor activities for families & adventurers alike. Order your free Travel Guide today. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
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Maverick Helicopters Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and California
Maverick Helicopters
Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and CaliforniaUnforgettable Tours Offered in Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and California. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
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