Float Tubing in Yosemite

Brice writes in to ask:

“We will be camping near Fish Camp on the weekend of August 3rd. I was wondering if you know what level the Merced is at about now. We’d like to do a leisurely float trip with tubes and such while we’re there if it’s safe and doable. Or if you can recommend another spot?”

To answer Brice’s question I turn to rafting expert and river guide Bob Ferguson over at Zephyr White Water Expeditions.

Bob responds: “Currently, the Merced river near El Portal (and through the Park) is running about 95 cubic feet per second (cfs). And down river below Briceburg, it is about 110 cfs. These are very low levels, and much too low for regular whitewater rafts, but there is plenty of water to float the approx. 2 mile section in Yosemite Valley proper. Small raft rentals are available near Curry Village for this float, or you can use your own inner tubes, air mattresses, etc.”

Thanks for the info Bob. I hope that answers your question Brice. Have a great trip and remember, be safe.

Photo by Dawn Endico via Flickr.