Mariposa Creek Parkway

About

Mariposa Creek Parkway is a short, paved walking path that follows Mariposa Creek through the heart of downtown Mariposa, just off Highway 140 on the way into Yosemite. It's not a wilderness hike — it's a level, easy stretch of trail connecting downtown to the Mariposa County Arts Park, good for a leg-stretch, a picnic walk, or letting kids burn off energy before or after a day in the park.

What's There Now

The existing path runs roughly a quarter mile and threads through the Arts Park, where the northern stretch doubles as a native-plant demonstration garden. Look for California buckeye, redbud, and blue flax growing along the creek, planted specifically to showcase native landscaping.

A Bigger Trail System Is Coming

Mariposa County has completed design and permitting for a much larger 12.4-mile trail network built around the existing parkway, with separate hike-only, bike-only, ADA-accessible, and multiuse sections planned in phases. The current construction phase, Phase III, will add a paved multi-use trail and pedestrian bridge between the cemetery and downtown, linking the Arts Park to local businesses and a planned transit center — and eventually to regional bike routes reaching toward the surrounding national forests and Yosemite.

Surface: Paved
Length today: About a quarter mile, with expansion underway
Good for: A quick walk, a break from driving, native-plant viewing

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Mariposa Creek Parkway trail?

The existing paved section is about a quarter mile through downtown Mariposa, though the county has permits in hand for a 12.4-mile trail system expansion.

Is the parkway paved and flat?

Yes — it's a level, paved path, easy for strollers, wheelchairs, or a quick stretch between drives.

Where do I access the trail?

It runs through the Mariposa County Arts Park in downtown Mariposa, right along the town's main corridor.

Does the trail connect to Yosemite?

Not yet directly — but planned phases are designed to eventually link toward regional bike routes reaching the surrounding national forests and Yosemite.