Merced, California
The best trails and outdoor activities in Merced, California, are a must-visit for anyone who enjoys scenic outdoor adventures. One of the top trails is the Bear Creek Trail. It's a 5-mile long, moderately difficult trail that winds along the beautiful Bear Creek. The trail is known for its diverse plant life and the creek's clear waters. If you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife too. Another must-visit is the Merced National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for migratory birds and other wildlife. Here, you can enjoy bird watching or a leisurely walk on the nature trail. For a more challenging hike, head to the nearby Yosemite National Park and tackle the Half Dome Trail. This strenuous hike rewards with panoramic views of the park's iconic granite formations and waterfalls. These outdoor activities in and near Merced offer a unique mix of relaxation and adventure.
Top Spots in and near Merced
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Wawona, California
Wawona Swinging Bridge Trail
1.29 mi / 121 ft gainThe hike to the Wawona Swinging Bridge is a 0.7 mile dirt path. Start at the trailhead located next to the parking lot. The hike is surrounded by many trees which offers a lot of shade. For the first couple of minutes the trail is fairly straight. You then begin to hike down for just a minute or ...Read more -
Fish Camp, California
Wawona Point via Mariposa Grove
6.86 mi / 1486 ft gainThere is easy parking in the Mariposa Grove parking lot. There are a variety of trails through the grove; you can follow the NPS guide maps to see each of the iconic trees. These include tunnel trees you can walk through as well as overturned trees showing the immense root systems. From the park...Read more -
Mariposa County, California
Hike Old Big Oak Flat Road
4.1 mi / 1070 ft gainOld Big Oak Flat Road used to be one of the main entries into Yosemite Valley, before HWY 120, 140 and 41. It was a dangerous road which had to be realigned, reconstructed and maintained continuously and was eventually closed in the 1940’s after a giant rockslide made it completely irreparable. T...Read more -
Oakhurst, California
Camp at Nelder Grove Campground in Sierra National Forest
0 mi / 0 ft gainSites are located along Willow Creek with plenty of shape. Right out of the campground you can hike nearby Bull Buck Trail and discover the giant sequoia trees. This is a first-come first-serve campground so arrive early.Directions: Take Hwy 41 north from Fresno; continue thru Oakhurst to Sky Ran...Read more
