The purpose of this report is to describe the economic, quality of life, public health, and other benefits that Mariposa County and its residents are likely to enjoy from the Merced River Trail based on research and experiences of communities with similar projects.
The Merced River Trail is a proposed recreational resource along the historic Yosemite Valley Railroad (YVRR) grade on the northern banks of the Merced River. The primary emphasis is on a nearly 40-mile segment of trail located entirely within Mariposa County, almost all of which is adjacent to a reach of river that has been designated Wild and Scenic by the federal government. Future trail segments will establish regional nonmotorized connections at the YVRR’s historic downstream terminus in Merced. Nearly 17 miles of the trail are managed for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Other sections require restoration to clear landslides and improve trail accessibility.
The purpose of this report is to describe the economic, quality of life, public health, and other benefits that Mariposa County and its residents are likely to enjoy from the Merced River Trail based on research and experiences of communities with similar projects.
Published June 01, 2020
Headwaters Economics is an independent, nonprofit research group that works to improve community development and land management decisions. We inform community decision-making and identify practical solutions by making complex data understandable, beautiful, and interactive, helping develop solutions to some of the most urgent and important issues that communities face.
The Power of Trails for Promoting Physical Activity in Communities
Promoting physical activity among children and adults is a priority national health objective in the United States. Regular physical activity lowers the risk of chronic diseases and is an important strategy for reversing the obesity epidemic.
Green Schoolyards for All Children
A growing body of scientific evidence suggests that the creation of nature-rich urban environments, including schoolyards with natural play spaces and gardens, can help improve physical and mental health, cognitive skills, creativity, and social bonding.
Investigating the Thru-hiker Experience: A Study on the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail
The phenomena of thru-hiking has been on a dramatic rise, spurring hikers to venture onto increasingly remote and challenging trails over extended periods of time. Despite the recent popularity of thru-hiking, the field remains relatively unstudied. In recreation, the expectations held beforehand have been linked to perceptions after an activity, but this has not been explored in thru-hiking.
Effects of Pack Weight on Endurance of Long-distance Hikers
This study evaluated pack weight to understand the limits of long-term load carriage. Participants were Appalachian Trail hikers who attempted to complete the entire trail in the 2012 season.
