8 Things to Do in Mariposa, California (2025)

 Discover 8 must‑do things in Mariposa, CA—from e‑bike tours and climbing history to BBQ joints, cider tasting, and rafting. Plan your foothill adventure now.

1. See the Sierra Foothills on an E‑Bike

Yosemite E‑Biking runs private half‑ and full‑day tours that roll up to 40 miles and 5,000 feet of elevation on fat‑tire, pedal‑assist bikes. Expect wildflower meadows, Clydesdale carrot stops, and ridge‑line views of Half Dome—no Yosemite entrance reservation required.

2. Visit the Yosemite Climbing Association Museum & Gallery

With more than 10 thousand artifacts—from Warren Harding’s first ascent bolts to modern portaledges—the YCA Museum at 5180 CA‑140 chronicles 150 years of Yosemite climbing history (Tue–Sun, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.).

3. Gawk at the 13‑Pound “Fricot Nugget”

The California State Mining & Mineral Museum houses the state’s official mineral collection—13 thousand specimens highlighted by a 204‑ounce crystalline‑gold nugget pulled from the Sierra in 1864.

4. Feast on Low‑and‑Slow at Smokin’ Oak BBQ

Locals set alerts for the daily meat drop at Smokin’ Oak BBQ (5040 Hwy 140). Brisket, tri‑tip, and pulled pork sell out fast—current hours Wed‑Sat 11 a.m.–6:30 p.m.

5. Sip “Campfire Champagne” at Sierra Cider

Just five minutes from town, Sierra Cider Farm & Cidery pours dry‑sparkling ciders Fri–Sun 12–6 p.m. No reservation needed; orchard tours bookable via Airbnb Experiences.

6. Grab a Pint at The Alley Bar & Tap

Sixteen rotating craft beers, artisan pizzas, and a twinkle‑lit courtyard make The Alley (5027 Hwy 140; Tue–Sat 4–10 p.m.) the town’s go‑to after‑dark hang.

7. Hike or Bike the Stockton Creek Preserve Trail

This four‑mile loop packs a lake, seasonal waterfall, and foothill ridges into a quick pre‑dinner outing—trailhead two minutes north of Main Street.

8. Run Class III/IV Rapids on the Merced River

Peak snowmelt (April–June) turns the lower Merced into a white‑water playground. Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions offers half‑day trips that cover 11 scenic miles.

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