Merced River
Merced River is a high-gradient mountain stream originating in Yosemite National Park and flowing south through California's Central Valley. Known for classical trout fishing and scenic canyon sections, it also serves as a crucial water source for downstream communities.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Western United States |
| Subregion | Great Basin |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Mariposa and Merced counties |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 37.28 |
| Longitude | -119.76 |
| Maps |
6:13 PM LOCAL TIMEMerced River begins high in the granite corridors of Yosemite National Park, where glacial cirques feed a steep, cold stream favored by brown and rainbow trout. As it leaves the park, the river broadens into a meandering valley, crossing private and public lands before joining the San Joaquin Valley near Atwater and Merced. Along its course, visitors can enjoy activities from whitewater kayaking and swimming in protected sections to scenic side hikes and wildlife viewing in riparian habitats. The river's health and flow are deeply tied to regional water management and Yosemite's seasonal snowpack.
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