Getting Around Merced: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Merced offers a somewhat walkable experience, particularly within its revitalized downtown area where historic buildings house restaurants and bars, making it convenient for travelers to explore on foot. While areas close to downtown and the UC Merced campus are suitable for walking, the city's overall layout means that many neighborhoods require a vehicle for daily errands, leading to a lack of consistent walkability throughout the area.

Public transportation in Merced is limited but offers some options for travelers. 'The Bus' serves the county, while UC Merced runs 'CatTracks' to key locations. The YARTS service is a highlight, providing access to Yosemite without a car, and the Merced Transportation Center connects to regional and national routes. Despite these services, bus route coverage and frequency aren't comprehensive enough for all travel needs, so travelers may find public transit suitable only for specific trips.

Merced provides a bike-friendly environment with investments in infrastructure, such as off-street paths and on-street lanes, supported by more than 20 miles of bike trails across the city. The bikeways, like the Black Rascal Creek and Bear Creek, offer scenic routes ideal for leisurely rides or commuting. However, the use of shared lanes ('sharrows') in certain areas requires careful navigation due to traffic. Despite these challenges, biking remains a practical way to explore the city, especially near the university and in connected trail areas.