Rafting/float inside park

Question

I understand that rafting in the summer inside the park has no advanced reservations. Is it possible stop by early in the morning to reserve a float for the afternoon? Any hopes of this being an option in June?

Answer

Yosemite National Park offers summer rafting and float trips on the Merced River inside the park. In June, the river is usually flowing well, and conditions are good for floating, though water levels can vary depending on snowmelt.

Reservations:

For the summer season, Yosemite’s rafting operations generally do not take advance reservations. The system is first-come, first-served, and trips are allocated each morning based on availability.

Yes, it is possible to arrive early in the morning and secure a float trip for later in the day.
Arrive as early as possible, usually when the rental/rafting office opens, to maximize your chances of getting a spot for the afternoon.
Be aware that weekends and holidays, especially in June, can be busy, so getting there right at opening is recommended.

Tips for a good experience:

Check the current river conditions and operational hours at the Yosemite rafting office or visitor center the day before.
Bring swimwear, water shoes, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag for belongings.
Plan to be flexible with timing, as trips fill up quickly during peak summer months.
Consider alternative times (early morning or late afternoon) if afternoon slots are full.

In summary, while you cannot book a float in advance in June, arriving early in the morning should give you a good chance of securing an afternoon rafting trip. Planning to be flexible and patient is key during the busy summer season.

Rafting/float inside park

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