Nature

Merced River Trail Head

The Merced River Recreation Management Area (RMA) is a very special place just downstream from Yosemite. It is well known for excellent whitewater boating, wildflower viewing, camping, swimming, and recreational gold panning/prospecting. You can also hike the Merced River Trail.

Briceburg Trail Head

The Merced River runs along the Briceburg hiking trail west. You might see rafts and kayaks floating along the river and enjoy the rocky canyon year-round.

Rafting

All Outdoors Rafting is currently running trips on the South Fork American River (including the Tom Sawyer Float Trips) and the Middle Fork American River. Both rivers have plenty of water this year and will run into the fall.

Bull Creek OHV Trail

Bull Creek OHV Trail is a 13.4-mile moderate trail located near Midpines, that winds along a river. The trail is primarily used for hiking and off-road driving and is accessible year-round.

Events

Butterfly festival

The annual Butterfly Festival celebrates Mariposa’s namesake (Mariposa means butterfly in Spanish). At the festival, you see art from local vendors, live music, food, and of course real butterflies! The festival is typically held in May but in 2021 the festival was in July.

Mariposa Farmers Market

The Mariposa farmers market runs from May through November on Wednesdays from 4:30 pm – 6:​30 pm. It takes place in downtown Mariposa in the parking lot at the bottom of 6th Street and Stroming Rd​.

Music on the green

Hosted by the Mariposa Arts Council, Music on the Green provides live music throughout the summer in the park near downtown Mariposa. Check the website for the current list of scheduled performers.

Mariposa County Fair

Includes a carnival with rides and games, livestock exhibits, demonstrations, crochet competitions, watermelon spitting contests, and so much more! Currently scheduled for September 3-6 but check the Mariposa County Fairgrounds for up-to-date information.