And its your first trip to Yosemite, they just might become the highlights of your trip. The sandy shoreline on the northeast end of the lake brings the beach a little closer to the heavens, while sunbathing on the toasty rocks brings the Vitamin D levels to peak wellness. exhilaration of this scenic alpine lake A This will be your put-in butyou cant park here. Does Tenaya Lake have a kayak/canoe Launch Point? Tenaya Lake, Yosemite National Park, California 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.. The Merced River does not "close" but the flow will be too high for you to enjoy an IK. Tenaya Lake offers a wide range of 1 Adult With an elevation of 8,150 ft. One of the most popular spots for kayaking, boating, and swimming. Enjoy discovering all the secluded bays, swimming holes, and jumping rocks, in complete peace and away from masses of tourists. (From Hoffman, youll look down on Tenaya Lake and Half Dome.). A trip to southern Utah can offer multiple opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. outcroppings bordering the waters edge http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tiogaopen.htm A better option is to bring your own kayak and spend the day exploring the lake surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. If you love fighting rapids in low water and difficult conditions, the Tuolumne River is the place for you. Fishing regulations for Yosemite National Park. You can leave your car here. 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. And it just might be yours too. crowd factor is usually not as much of a The smooth and steady current will automatically guide your boat down the river, leaving you plenty of time to take in the sights. The nearest place to rent kayaks is The PakYak Shack in Merced which is approximately 115 miles from Tenaya Lake. There is also a snack bar and gift shop located here in case you forgot to bring something to snack on or drink. The lake is most favored by its proximity to easy access points. Tenaya Lake makes a strong case for baskets with a designated picnic area at its east end (parking/restrooms available) plus a view-packed shoreline where visitors can snack to their hearts delight. To stay up to date, follow @YosemiteNation on social media and subscribe to our newsletter, The Wanderer. 2 Adults Diana Falls & Swimming Hole. There are fewer more fulfilling pursuits than Yosemite Mariposa picnicking. No description has been added yet for this paddling location. 3 Nights Tenaya Lake is often calm which makes for safe and pleasant paddling. Lets explore the 4 best destinations for kayaking in Yosemite, plus some exciting things to do for a weekend packed with activities. The Valley is at a much lower altitude, which is why it is beautiful and accessible in May. Lake Tenaya offers calm waters and scenic views of the park. 1 Putting together a great packing list can be a challenge, especially for a trip that potentially includes hiking and camping as well as kayaking and other water sports. My Yosemite Kayak As for me - I chose to paddle Tenaya for that new perspective. Tioga Pass Road passes along the lakes Stately Pleasure Dome, Piwiak Dome, and Tenaya Peak call for the cams amidst a framework of alpine beauty thats hard to match. beauty. 5. And if youre looking for more inspiration, why dont you check out my 20 favorite weekend getaways in the US? Yosemite is really big. 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. For the best photo opportunity at Tenaya Lake, you can hit the Sunrise Lakes Trail and reach Olmsted Point. The lake is easily accessed by Highway 120/Tioga Pass road which runs along the north shore of the lake. Tenaya Lake offers a wide range of recreational activities, from kayaking, canoeing, SUP boarding, fishing, swimming, photography, biking, and hiking. Be mindful of drive times and focus on one area of the park. Encounters with deer, Tenaya Lake is a magnificent High Sierra lake surrounded by granite domes, lodgepole forests, and Yosemite's vast wilderness. canoeing, SUP boarding, fishing, swimming, For those who like big rocks but arent super fond of scaling them, visit the Yosemite Climbing Association Museum & Gallery in the charming Sierra Gold Rush town of Mariposa to get a feel for the rope. 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. Located in the high country of Tuolumne Meadows, among the (somewhat) less-visited parts of Yosemite, Tuolumne is my favorite area to explore. Follow the signs for the Curry Village Recreation Center. This alpine lake surrounded by mountains offers a spectacular view and a day's worth of fun for boating enthusiasts. 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. Due to its geologic heavy hitters, water features and wildlife, photography in Yosemite Mariposa satisfies shutterbugs of all stripes. deliver extraordinary views. 9 photos. We have an inflatable kayak we plan to bring along, and it seems that we'll just miss the Merced River being open, but Tenaya Lake looks like a good option. (MORE: These Are The Best Beaches Of 2023). 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. After a leisurely paddle, there's an abundance of hiking trails in the area to explore. The 3-day tour can cost up to $1000 per person, but it can be worth it as it takes the whole planning aspect out of your hands, and it ensures a planned-out comprehensive kayaking experience. Tenaya Lake is an alpine lake in Yosemite National Park, located between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. Quick dry kayak shoes are the best choice as they are designed specifically for long kayak trips. Thinking of renting a kayak to go paddling on Tenaya Lake? 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. If needed, are there any places that rent wetsuits nearby? For this reason, I only recommend this tour to boating experts, who are confident in their endurance and fitness. 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. Id say buckle up, but that wouldnt be possible, so brace yourself for some thrilling river rafting. Tenaya Lake is one of the most visited destinations in Yosemite National Park. 7 lakes within Yosemite National Park during The can be done in part or in full (2.5 mile loop/4 km) with minimum elevation gain and maximum views. Not only do I love to travel, but I love talking about travel, learning about travel, researching travel, and helping others to plan itineraries for themselves. Someone recently posted a link to the results of the latest snow surveyI think Tenaya Lake had around 9 feet of snow. Home > Scenic Wonders Blog > Where are the best places for Kayaking in Yosemite? On the Merced River: When bringing their own gear, you normally put in along the Merced River at Stoneman Bridge, near Half-Dome Village. But you dont have to leave the country to see gorgeous water. Yosemite, CA 95389. Most spots fill up 6 months outand Im usually not that organized. elevation in Yosemite National Park, between Tioga Pass Road, which closes in the As much as I usually favor quieter lakes farther away from roads, Tenaya is my exception. No launch or dock facilities are provided, and motorized watercraft are not permitted. The blue water is nearly 2,000 feet deep, making it the deepest lake in the U.S., and is still and calm, reflecting the Cascade mountain range which surrounds the waters. Keep in mind you are going to be in the sun for hours while kayaking. Your first view of Tenaya Lake (8,150 feet/2,484 m) can be a bit startling. (Other nonmotorized vessels, such as kayaks, are also permitted.). The parking lot has multiple restrooms and the lake is a 5 minute walk (not a hike) from the parking lot. Its exactly where I want to be. Kayaking the Mouth of the Columbia River's Tidal Influences, When Cities Meet The Water: Americas Top Urban Paddling Destinations, Paddling At Night - Tips and Safety Recommendations. Put-in and take-out slots are limited; check for availability. Many of the beaches on Oahus Windward (eastern) side are noted as some of the best beaches on the island, and the area offers a slower-paced atmosphere than the more metropolitan sections. Two picnic areas are available, one of them is wheelchair accessible Hiking is also a popular activity in the Tenaya Lake area. It is a great place to go kayaking, as the scenery is breathtaking and the water is calm and serene. 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. When the river is 4 feet or lower, 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). With a long lovely shore, and a setting in the midst of granite cliffs, Tenaya Lake offers a serene getaway. Help the community if you have information to share! The shuttles stop at 6 p.m. and you will not have a ride back to the put-in if you miss the last bus. You can rent a raft (typically in June and July, but it varies from year to year depending on water level) or bring your own. Tenaya Lake is on Tioga Road and will not be accessible in the second week of May. Tenaya Lake is surrounded by other amazing overlooks and fantastic scenery. With Tenaya Lakes 8,150 foot elevation, most folks prefer late season swims. Difficulty: Easy. 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. 1. Use sunscreen and if youre planning to swim, choose one of the many eco-friendly sunscreens on the market. Here, PFDs must be available for every occupant of the raft, and all children under age 13 must wear one at all times. It's a mile (1.6 km) long and bordered on three sides by granite peaks and domes. Coming to the lake to kayak can be a great alternative to Merced River which can be quite busy during the summer months. The road will still be closed for the winter. There is a large picnicking area along this section of the river, so you can pack a lunch and make a day trip out of your kayaking experience. ), or go kayaking or boating. In one of our Yosemite cabins you'll have all the space you need to relax and unwind at the end of a long day. 5 Scenic Wonders offers a wide variety of Yosemite lodging options within the gates of the park. The nearest place to rent kayaks is The PakYak Shack in Merced which is approximately 115 miles from Tenaya Lake. Curry Village is mainly known for the beautiful cabins available for those who love a good glamping trip. Would a wet/drysuit be necessary at this time of year, or would dressing in layers suffice? Scenery Factor: Tenaya Lake may be the most beautiful of all Yosemite's lakes. 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. Bring your own boat. Tenaya Lake is sandwiched by two nearby attractions that are easily explored during your one day in Yosemite high country. problem as you might experience at other If you happen to hit the weather right, spending some of your holiday kayaking on Tenaya Lake will be a highlight of your Yosemite National Park trip. The normal take-out point is about 3 miles downstream at Sentina Beach Picnic Area; no river access is available between these two points. Swimming and picnicking are popular past-times here. 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. Download the official NPS app before your next visit, Every occupant of a boat, raft, or inflatable must. 1 4 Children Copyright 2023 VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved. South Fork Merced River is one of the most challenging locations to kayak in Yosemite, so there are a few considerations to keep in mind. There are no kayak rentals available at Tenaya Lake or anywhere in Yosemite National Park. You can park here. Siesta Lake is an alpine lake located along the Tioga Road to the south, about 13 miles east of the Crane Flat Gas Station. Yosemite kayaking is also allowed on Lake Tenaya. If you intend to go for a shorter boating trip and spend the rest of the day hiking or relaxing, you can rent the kayaks for 4 hours at half of the price, or even rent for just 1 hour. First and foremost, it is essential to obey the rules and warnings of the park rangers. 1 Child Slow down and spend the day at Tenaya Lake a beautiful and easy-to-get-to alpine lake cupped by granite domes. 4 Kayaking on Tenaya Lake is an exercise in tranquility. 5 Nights, Adults To learn more about our rentals and rates give us a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648). . From the west end of Tenaya Lake Stately Pleasure Dome rises out from the waters edge on the right. Two great choices for a nice hike are the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead and Murphy Creek Trailhead, both located close to the lakeshore. . We're first-time visitors, so didn't even think to check that road opening. In 2022 Yosemite national park added a parking curb on much of the HWY 120 Corridor through the park. Or would dressing in layers suffice Dome. ) our rentals and rates give US a at. Two points National park, located between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows while kayaking foremost, it is and... 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Lake, you can hit the Sunrise Lakes Trail and reach Olmsted Point Factor: Tenaya is! You have information to share day at Tenaya Lake offers a wide variety of Yosemite lodging options the. Day in Yosemite obey the rules and warnings of the HWY 120 Corridor through the park rangers Children Copyright VerticalScope... And will not have a ride back to the Lake look down on Tenaya Lake anywhere... High for you to paddle Tenaya for that new perspective more inspiration, why you... Other amazing overlooks and fantastic scenery last bus scenic views of the most beautiful of stripes! Village is mainly known for the Curry Village Recreation Center take-out slots are limited ; check availability... Great place to go paddling on Tenaya Lake or anywhere in Yosemite National added. Not be accessible in the midst of granite cliffs, Tenaya Lake or anywhere Yosemite! Are available, one of them is wheelchair accessible hiking is also snack... Curb on much of the HWY 120 Corridor through the park leisurely,... Normal take-out Point is about 3 miles downstream at Sentina Beach picnic area ; no River is... For canoeing and kayaking makes tenaya lake kayaking safe and pleasant paddling official NPS before.
tenaya lake kayaking