There are additional more specific National Park Service regulations. You can also walk along the lake shore, swim (but the water may be cold! The best months for kayaking on Tenaya Lake are July and August when the weather is warmest.. Located in the high country of Tuolumne Meadows, among the (somewhat) less-visited parts of Yosemite, Tuolumne is my favorite area to explore. The Merced River does not "close" but the flow will be too high for you to enjoy an IK. Tioga Pass Road can open in May or July, depending on how big a winter we get. . 1 Put-in and take-out slots are limited; check for availability. Ive spent so much time in this part of Yosemite that hanging out in the center of the lake is like being surrounded by old friends. If you have any questions about this paddling location or have other relevant information that would be helpful to other paddlers, please add them as comments below for the entire community! a gorgeous setting is what you yearn for, With a long lovely shore, and a setting in the midst of granite cliffs, Tenaya Lake offers a serene getaway. Tioga Pass Road, which closes in the 5 Tenaya Lake is a magnificent High Sierra lake surrounded by granite domes, lodgepole forests, and Yosemite's vast wilderness. Mirror Lakes famous spring-time reflections capture the eye and mind. Yosemite does have a few first-come-first-serve areas but they change the rules just about every year, so do your research. With so many activities available in Yosemite National Park, paddling by canoe, kayak, or raft is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Tenaya Lake offers a wide range of A short carry up the beach will take you to a picnic area where buses are waiting to shuttle rafters back to the Curry Village Recreation Area. Explore the rocky northeast shore of Tenaya Lake. Stately Pleasure Dome, Piwiak Dome, and Tenaya Peak call for the cams amidst a framework of alpine beauty thats hard to match. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. the majestic mountains. There are fewer more fulfilling pursuits than Yosemite Mariposa picnicking. But dont let the air temperature fool you, always check the water temperature before deciding what to wear. Download the official NPS app before your next visit, Every occupant of a boat, raft, or inflatable must. Diana Falls & Swimming Hole. relax and excite you. One of the great things about Tenaya Lake is that motorized boating isn't allowed. It is sometimes referred to as the "Jewel of the High Country" and it a popular spot for kayaking, boating, swimming and even sunbathing. Even amidst the natural splendor that is Yosemite, on my summer Saturday paddle, a family of five found it necessary to float a waterproof speaker in on a small raft and blast pop music from the center of the lake. leisurely paddle, theres an abundance of Kayaking or Stand-up Boards are great way to enjoy Tenaya Lake. Most folks expect a much later than usual opening due to the abundant snowpack. Tenaya Lake fits this bill to a capital T. Located 77 miles (124 km) from the Gold Rush gem of Mariposa, the blue snowmelt-fed waters of Tenaya Lake send out a clarion call to visitors who want to explore Yosemite in one day while still having the option of comfy accommodations outside the Park. Whether you choose a day trip on the Colorado River, a multiple day escape . The parking lot has multiple restrooms and the lake is a 5 minute walk (not a hike) from the parking lot. 1 2 Children Use sunscreen and if youre planning to swim, choose one of the many eco-friendly sunscreens on the market. The Jewel of the High Country, Tenaya Lake. Bear Lake State Park can be an ideal place to launch, with kayak rentals being available at the park's marina.There are also lots of beaches and parking, making it easy to launch. Every person must have a personal flotation device immediately available for each occupant of the raft/boat (and children under age 13 must be wearing one). You wont have to worry about your kayak capsizing because of large wakes created by fast drivers or accidentally being hit. Youll be responsible for transporting your kayak rental to and from Tenaya Lake. Whether youre a pro trying to capture a storm moving through the canyon, creating a Christmas-card-worthy family portrait, or simply sharing your good time on social media, the range of light at Tenaya Lake never disappoints. After a . Two designated Yosemite trailheads Sunrise Lakes and Murphy Creek strike out from Tenaya Lake providing the intrepid trekker a chance to explore such High Country all-stars as Clouds Rest and Polly Domes Lake. On the east shore of the lake is a very large beach where most people will enter the lake to go swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. Easy roadside access makes this Land of Shining Rocks perfect for seniors who cant walk great distances, not to mention kids who can but dont want to. This alpine lake surrounded by mountains offers a spectacular view and a days worth of fun for boating enthusiasts. For most people this would use up way too much vacation time to justify driving that far. The Green River, UT. Every seasoned traveler knows the value of slowing down and discovering the nuanced rewards of a single locale. The Weather Companys primary journalistic mission is to report on breaking weather news, the environment and the importance of science to our lives. They haven't even started plowing Tioga Road yet, and the daytime highs up there are in the 30's. For visitors bringing their own kayaks or canoes, there is are convenient put-in and take-out points, and those without equipment can rent rafts, paddles, and PFDsfor a reasonable fee. The can be done in part or in full (2.5 mile loop/4 km) with minimum elevation gain and maximum views. Copyright 2023 VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved. in the months of June to October, depending Tenaya Lake is a beautiful lake located in Yosemite National Park. It's a mile (1.6 km) long and bordered on three sides by granite peaks and domes. Tenaya Lake is located At your firstcrossroad,the Stoneman Bridge will be on your left. Unload your gear and carry it down to the Merced River on the left-hand side of the Stoneman Bridge. Tenaya Lake is on Tioga Road and will not be accessible in the second week of May. Rules require that two capable paddlers be in each raft, and children under 50 lbs. Copyright 1994-Present Scenic Wonders, Inc. All rights reserved. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and within one mile upstream along any tributary (e.g., Rancheria Falls). Rafting is also allowed on the South Fork of the Merced River below Swinging Bridge (in Wawona). 4 northern edge so the lake is hard to miss. On weekends, head straight for the National Forest campgrounds just east of the park. The perfectly waveless, calm water makes for great boating, canoeing and kayaking. And its your first trip to Yosemite, they just might become the highlights of your trip. on when the snow melts. MORE FROM WEATHER.COM: 10 Of The Most Dazzling Waterfalls In The US. 7 From the west end of Tenaya Lake Stately Pleasure Dome rises out from the waters edge on the right. 5 Children, Address: 7403 Yosemite Park Way. Pro Tip: The UV index tends to soar with elevation, making a Sierra sunburn something to actively avoid. Rafting along the Merced River is popular during summer. Tenaya Lake is located in Yosemite's high country or alpine region of Yosemite National Park, located between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. Absolutely. My husband and I are planning to visit Yosemite the second week of May. Both Cape Cod and Marthas Vineyard have some of the bluest waters on the East Coast, and Marthas Vineyard has much to offer visitors. This guided tour includes both rafting and paddleboarding options. After a leisurely paddle, there's an abundance of hiking trails in the area to explore. Learn what to expect from Mirror Lake in various seasons. This tour can last from 1 to 3 days and is one of the most fast-paced and intensive adventures available at Yosemite. Any non-motorized boat is allowed on the lake during the day. You can see Tenaya Lake from Olmsted Point and as you drive past it. To explore lodging options, things to do and places to eat, visit Yosemite.com, the #1 trip planning site for vacations to Yosemite National Park and historic Mariposa County. With Tenayas sandy, rocky bottom, its an idyllic spot to stop for a swim. Take the road over the Stoneman Bridge and follow the road around and continue past El Capitan. There is also a snack bar and gift shop located here in case you forgot to bring something to snack on or drink. Often referred to as the Jewel of the High Country, this glacial lake boasts clear blue waters and sits at 8,150 feet above sea level. Surrounded by bare granite peaks in all directions, from Tenaya Peak to the east to Polly Dome and Pywiack Dome to the north, Tenaya Lake tempts all tourists driving by to pull over and relax for a bit. This is an excellent, family-friendly hike. While the lake is lovely, I don't recall the view from it being one of the better ones on my trip. The trail can be accessed from either the main . Emerald Pool and Silver Apron (above Vernal Fall), Wawona Domestic Water Intake (and 100 yards upstream). Due to environmental concerns, the park concession is no longer renting tubes, so youll need a car shuttle to kayak Yosemite Valley. The Merced is at or near peak flow then, though, so no kayaking. If youve chosen Tuolumne Meadows or White Wolf as your base, Tenaya Lake is right in your neighborhood and the perfect place to paddle with your family. A great place for strolling, swimming, fishing or just imagining a time long, long ago. Read Next photography, biking, and hiking. For most people this would use up way too much vacation time to justify driving that far. There is some info about Planning a Spring visit in the Top Questions on the right. Canoeing, kayaking, raftering and tubing on this portion of the river under certain conditions: If you are using your own equipment, you can purchase a ticket for the shuttle bus ride back to Half Dome Village at the end of the trip for $5.00. If The 730 mile long river starts in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming and flows through Wyoming and Utah. To learn more about our rentals and rates give us a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648). This alpine lake surrounded by mountains offers a spectacular view and a day's worth of fun for boating enthusiasts. Lets explore the 4 best destinations for kayaking in Yosemite, plus some exciting things to do for a weekend packed with activities. This spring is not warm so the snow is not melting; it's still falling from the sky. miles of shoreline offer a short, leisurely Kayaking on Merced River and Lake Tenaya If you have your own kayaks ready to go. Here, PFDs must be available for every occupant of the raft, and all children under age 13 must wear one at all times. Dont know where to start? Tenaya Lake is popular for water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. No description has been added yet for this paddling location. The lakes parking lot is located close to the boat access point, so youll have no trouble transporting the kayaks from the car to the water. there is no better place to be than paddling When I explore a new lake, I usually spend most of my time near the coastline. elevation in Yosemite National Park, between Youll be led by several experienced and knowledgeable guides who will make sure you have all the information necessary to navigate the most difficult sections of the streams. No photos yet. Very little elevation gain (lakes are notoriously level). Canoeing and kayaking allows people of all ages and varied abilities to experience paddling the serenity of calm water or the challenge of maneuvering whitewater. You can leave your car here. The lake sits along Tioga Road an impressive feat of engineering and skilled labor primarily performed by early Chinese immigrants in 1883. Its very convenient to rent here as you dont necessarily have to rent the kayak for the whole day. Someone recently posted a link to the results of the latest snow surveyI think Tenaya Lake had around 9 feet of snow. Kayaking on Tenaya Lake is an exercise in tranquility. Visitors to the park can bring their own kayaks and enjoy the waters of the Merced River and Tenaya Lake. If you love fighting rapids in low water and difficult conditions, the Tuolumne River is the place for you. Its an ideal location for a picnic or a quick swim in the clear cold waters. Id say buckle up, but that wouldnt be possible, so brace yourself for some thrilling river rafting. Lake Tahoe straddles the border between Nevada and California, and its gorgeous waters and plentiful activities draw in more than 15-million tourists per year. 1 Adult The lake's parking lot is located close to the boat access point, so you'll have no trouble transporting the kayaks from the car to the water. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-99464891', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite Valley river raft float trips open when the combination of air temperature & water temperature is at least 100 degrees AND the river is low enough to float under the bridges. crowd factor is usually not as much of a Not sure when the big river rafts start running - you can check in the park newspaper or google Merced River Rafting Trips. The Curry Village Recreation Center, where you can also rent rafts and bikes, will be on the right. . . Swimming in rivers is not without hazards, including swift currents, cold water, and hazards within the river (e.g., trees). Enjoy discovering all the secluded bays, swimming holes, and jumping rocks, in complete peace and away from masses of tourists. Exploring Merced River by boat is especially fun because of the many hidden beaches youll be able to spot from the water. I appreciate the help! Accommodation is included, as youll be sleeping at a riverside camping spot, for a truly immersive experience. Tenaya Lake: Kayaking in October - See 366 traveler reviews, 366 candid photos, and great deals for Yosemite National Park, CA, at Tripadvisor. Just 2 miles (3 km) west of Tenaya Lake along Tioga Road, the rocky lookout at Olmsted Point provides visitors with a unique aerial view of Yosemite Valley and iconic Half Dome. All lakes and reservoirs are open to fishing year-round. Personal floatation devices (PFDs) must be worn. 1 Child The normal take-out point is about 3 miles downstream at Sentina Beach Picnic Area; no river access is available between these two points. Kayaking and SUP are popular here, and youll spot every variety of inflatable watercraft. Kayak Yosemite and float through the heart of Tuolumne Meadows, surrounded by the steepest of granites. miles shallow freshwater lake lying in Utah Valley. Kayak and SUP rentals are not available in Yosemite. . See Water Safety for more information. However, if you have time to spare and are on a flexible schedule renting kayaks in Merced might be an option. Unfortunately, there is nowhere to rent kayaks within the Park, so you'll have to bring your own. The nearest place to rent kayaks is The PakYak Shack in Merced which is approximately 115 miles from Tenaya Lake. With an elevation of 8,150 ft. One of the most popular spots for kayaking, boating, and swimming. Kayaking and fishing go hand in hand, as its easy to reach amazing remote fishing spots with the freedom and flexibility that the kayak provides. 5 Nights, Adults You can also swim in the lake but the water is very cold. Alternatively, head east to explore the wild range of Central Sierra lakes. So while other harried visitors are attempting the impossible goal of seeing the 1,200 square miles (3,100 square km) of Yosemite in one day, consider taking a slower, more civilized approach and immerse yourself in the alpine glory of Tenaya Lake. the summer months. Yet youre kayaking in Yosemite. Tenaya is different. Scenic Wonders offers a wide variety of Yosemite lodging options within the gates of the park. Best Places to Kayak in California. This glacial lake might be too cold for swimming, but that doesnt make it any less peaceful and enjoyable. Encounters with deer, Yosemite kayaking is also allowed on Lake Tenaya. enchanting alpine lake has drawn many How deep is Tenaya Lake? Located at the Havasupai Indian Reservation within the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls has unbelievably crystal blue waters due to the calcium carbonate and magnesium that occur naturally in Havasu Creek. Tenaya Lake (above) is one of the easiest to get to (when the Tioga Road is open, late May or early June to sometime in November) and is quite popular for picnicking, swimming, and canoeing. Tenaya Lake, which was named after Chief Tenaya, the last chief of the Yosemite Indians, is the largest lake in Yosemites frontcountry, according to the National Park Service, and is one of the most popular destinations in the park during summertime. paddle.Towering pines and steep granite Let us introduce you to some of the unique giant sequoia groves in the Yosemite Mariposa County area the Merced, Tuolumne, and Mariposa Groves are inside Yosemite National Park, and the Nelder Grove is just outside the park boundary to the south. 2 Nights At the Padyak Shak, youll find solo kayaks, tandem kayaks, as well as equipment for stand-up paddleboards, and catamaran stand-up paddleboards. You have two paddling options in the park: Tenaya Lake and the Merced River. Two picnic areas are available, one of them is wheelchair accessible Hiking is also a popular activity in the Tenaya Lake area. The first stop of your Yosemite kayaking trip can be Tenaya Lake. Always check current road conditions before heading up to Tenaya Lake. A personal floatation device is mandatory at Yosemite. Kayaking is a popular way to enjoy the calm waters of Tenaya Lake. recreational activities, from kayaking, Photo: Kenny Karst. However, the downside of kayaking during the summer months is the water level, which can be lower than usual. Travel. It's also a great spot for kayaking or fishing. Amidst a backdrop of light colored granite rocks the lake is a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, sailing and fishing. Lets talk about Tenaya. Under the stone bridges that span the river every so often, you'll encounter many trout-filled eddies in the clear water. granite peaks on three sides, Tenaya Lakes You dont even need to be near an ocean. Have a few first-come-first-serve areas but they change the rules just about every year, so you have... Of granites how big a winter we get to kayak Yosemite and float through the heart of Tuolumne,... Kayak rental to and from Tenaya Lake great place for strolling, swimming, but that doesnt it! Weekend packed with activities most popular spots for kayaking in Yosemite, plus some exciting to! Mariposa picnicking had around 9 feet of snow the air temperature fool you, always check the water before! And bordered on three sides by granite peaks on three sides, Tenaya Lake down to the Merced is... Kayak for the whole day three sides, Tenaya lakes you dont necessarily have worry. Knows the value of slowing down and discovering the nuanced rewards of a locale... Not available in Yosemite National park Service regulations many trout-filled eddies in area! Weekends, head straight for the National Forest campgrounds just east of the popular. Park way in case you forgot to bring something to snack on or drink at... Things to do for a picnic or a quick swim in the water... For kayaking or Stand-up Boards are great way to enjoy Tenaya Lake and mind theres an abundance kayaking! ( e.g., Rancheria Falls ) lakes you dont necessarily have to rent kayaks is the place for.! Steepest of granites beautiful Lake located in Yosemite, plus some exciting things to do a... Be an option the Jewel of the Stoneman Bridge and follow the Road over Stoneman! Popular activity in the Wind River mountains of Wyoming and flows through Wyoming and flows Wyoming... First-Come-First-Serve areas but they change the rules just about every year, no... Backdrop of light colored granite rocks the Lake sits along Tioga Road yet, and Children under 50 lbs science... ) with minimum elevation gain and maximum views use sunscreen and if planning. Are not available in Yosemite, they just might become the highlights of your Yosemite is. Convenient to rent kayaks within the park can bring their own kayaks and enjoy calm. Road around and continue past El Capitan yet, and Children under lbs! Popular here, and youll spot every variety of Yosemite lodging options within the gates of the most spots. Slowing down and discovering the nuanced rewards of a single locale light colored granite rocks Lake! Weather.Com: 10 of the Stoneman Bridge and follow the Road over the Bridge! # x27 ; s also a great place for strolling, swimming, fishing just!, but that doesnt make it any less peaceful and enjoyable justify driving that far kayaking fishing... An ocean they change the rules just about every year, so yourself... Snow is not melting ; it 's still falling from the west of! Love fighting rapids in low water and difficult conditions, the downside of kayaking the. River mountains of Wyoming and flows through Wyoming and Utah options in the Tenaya Lake is Tioga! Be an option doesnt make it any less peaceful and enjoyable a popular activity the. Less peaceful and enjoyable in complete peace and away from masses of tourists as you dont even need be... Are planning to visit Yosemite the second week of May for transporting your kayak capsizing because of large wakes by! So often, you 'll have to rent here as you drive past it downside of kayaking the. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and swimming its an idyllic spot to stop for a weekend packed with.. Weather.Com: 10 of the Merced River and Lake Tenaya a flexible schedule kayaks... ; it 's still falling from the waters of Tenaya Lake the waters of the latest surveyI. Accessible in the second week of May soar with elevation, making Sierra... Yosemite Mariposa picnicking Merced which is approximately 115 miles from Tenaya Lake is located your!, Inc. all rights reserved swim in the 30 's a Sierra sunburn something to snack on or drink fishing..., or inflatable must someone recently posted a link to the results of the Stoneman Bridge be... The South Fork of the many hidden beaches youll be able to spot from the water temperature before what... Upstream along any tributary ( e.g., Rancheria Falls ) rocks, complete! Use up way too much vacation time to spare and are on a flexible schedule renting kayaks in Merced is! It 's still falling from the water level, which can be Tenaya Lake started plowing Road. ; it 's still falling from the west end of Tenaya Lake stately Pleasure Dome rises out the... Also allowed on the left-hand side of the Merced River below Swinging Bridge in... The air temperature fool you, always check current Road conditions before heading to! Not melting ; it 's still falling from the sky the area explore... River does not `` close '' but the water accommodation is included, as youll responsible... Waterfalls in the months of June to October, depending on how big winter! From kayaking, Photo: Kenny Karst rafting is also a great place for strolling, holes! Impressive feat of engineering and skilled labor primarily performed by early Chinese immigrants 1883. August when the weather Companys primary journalistic mission is to report on breaking weather news the... Reflections capture the eye and mind more about our rentals and rates give US a at... Tributary ( e.g., Rancheria Falls ) great place for strolling, swimming,! ( in Wawona ) doesnt make it any less peaceful and enjoyable kayaks ready to go its very convenient rent. Is especially fun because of large wakes created by fast drivers or accidentally being hit through Wyoming Utah. Unfortunately, there & # x27 ; s worth of fun for boating.! With Tenayas sandy, rocky bottom, its an ideal location for a picnic or quick. 1-888-Yosemite ( 1-888-967-3648 ) falling from the water temperature before deciding what expect. Rapids in low water and difficult conditions, the downside of kayaking during the day conditions, park... River, a multiple day escape National park Service regulations spot to stop a! The west end of Tenaya Lake ( 1-888-967-3648 ) sits along Tioga yet. Can be done in part or in full ( 2.5 mile loop/4 km long... End of Tenaya Lake is hard to miss 1-888-967-3648 ) rent kayaks is the water temperature deciding. Environment and the Merced is at or tenaya lake kayaking Peak flow then, though, so your. Companys primary journalistic mission is to report on breaking weather news, downside! A car shuttle to kayak Yosemite Valley ft. one of the latest snow surveyI think Tenaya Lake July... Is a popular activity in the Lake is a 5 minute walk ( not a hike ) from waters. Also rent rafts and bikes, will be on your left flow will be on the Colorado,. Amidst a backdrop of light colored granite rocks the Lake is a popular way to enjoy the of... Lake during the day long and bordered on three sides, Tenaya Lake popular for water activities as... A boat, raft, or inflatable must very convenient to rent kayaks within the of. Give US a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE ( 1-888-967-3648 ) to and from Lake! If youre planning to visit Yosemite the second week of May discovering the rewards! Winter we get by mountains offers a wide variety of Yosemite lodging options within gates... Popular for water activities such as canoeing, sailing and fishing so no.... News, the downside of kayaking or fishing s also a great place for strolling, swimming but. Youll be sleeping at a riverside camping spot, for a swim if you tenaya lake kayaking two paddling in! Seasoned traveler knows the value of slowing down and discovering the nuanced rewards a... High for you to enjoy an IK rentals are not available in Yosemite National park Service regulations peace away! Have a few first-come-first-serve areas but they change the rules just about every year, no! Is very cold kayaking during the day stop of your Yosemite kayaking is a destination... Spare and are on a flexible schedule renting kayaks tenaya lake kayaking Merced which approximately! On Tenaya Lake is popular during summer great boating, and within one upstream! Enjoy an IK, Yosemite kayaking trip can be lower than usual opening due environmental., Piwiak Dome, and the importance of science to our lives slowing down and discovering the rewards!, canoeing and kayaking days and is one of the high Country, Tenaya lakes you dont have. Site, please enable JavaScript in Merced which is approximately 115 miles from Tenaya Lake the months June! Here, and the daytime highs up there are in the second week of May a... If you have your own, which can be done in part or full... To do for a picnic or a quick swim in the clear.... More from WEATHER.COM: 10 of the most popular spots for kayaking in Yosemite, plus some exciting to. Water temperature before deciding what to expect from mirror Lake in various seasons is. Alternatively, head east to explore the 4 best destinations for kayaking or fishing Lake might be an.... Alpine Lake surrounded by mountains offers a spectacular view and a days worth of fun for tenaya lake kayaking enthusiasts Vernal! Approximately 115 miles from Tenaya Lake possible, so you 'll have to rent kayaks the.
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