tenaya lake kayaking

Lake Tenaya Located in the Alpine region of Yosemite National Park is Lake Tenaya. wintertime. That doesnt mean you cant stop watching the weather for sudden changes or winds that can quickly come up. Unfortunately there arent very many rental options. From mid-lake gaze northeast for the unmistakable Pywiack Dome, a 600 foot temple of granite rising from a dark ring of pine forest. You can kayak all along the Merced River from Stoneman Bridge in Curry Village down to Sentinel Point Beach. You can choose the full-day trip option and navigate Merced River for over 16 miles, or the half-day option which covers about 11 miles. For those who dont mind cool water, beaches provide an ideal place for swimming. Here, too, each person on the craft must have a PFD available, and children under age 13 must wear them at all times. Yosemite is great for fishing because of the large population of rainbow trout, crappie, and largemouth bass. There are some exceptions, however, where swimming is prohibited: Swimming in the Merced River is a popular way to cool off--but help protect the river by entering and exiting only on sandy beaches. The Jewel of the High Country, Tenaya Lake. The water is crystal clear. Tenaya Lake is popular for water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. Its very convenient to rent here as you dont necessarily have to rent the kayak for the whole day. paddling enthusiasts. Kayaking the Mouth of the Columbia River's Tidal Influences. The paddling season is typically Most folks expect a much later than usual opening due to the abundant snowpack. Enjoy a day at the beach at the east end of Tenaya Lake. Yes, Tenaya Lake is a popular kayaking and swimming destination in Yosemite National Park. After a Rafting is also allowed on the South Fork of the Merced River below Swinging Bridge (in Wawona). Named after Chief Tenaya (leader of the Ahwahneechee people), Tenaya Lake is additionally fed by Murphy Creek and its stunning beauty makes it a must-stop when visiting the High Country of the Northern Yosemite region. Explore the rocky northeast shore of Tenaya Lake. the summer months. Bigger than the state of Rhode Island. Unfortunately, there is nowhere to rent kayaks within the Park, so you'll have to bring your own. Tenaya Lake is an Alpine lake lying between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. ' Rafting Green River, Utah ' by Ken Lund is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. 5 In 2022 Yosemite national park added a parking curb on much of the HWY 120 Corridor through the park. Either way, kayaking Tenaya Lake is the best way to rest your legs after a few days of steep trails, relax at the end of a long drive, or gaze up at your favorite alpine landmarks from a new perspective. Utah Lake. For most people this would use up way too much vacation time to justify driving that far. Before leaving for your trip, be sure to check out the specific fishing rules concerning baits, hooks, and possession limits. 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. You'll also have plenty of space for your kayaking equipment and all of the amenities you need to have a good time. Boating in Yosemite is also possible during fall, however, you may encounter bad weather and cold temperatures. by Tom Gaffey. But what about when the lake dries? The 730 mile long river starts in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming and flows through Wyoming and Utah. 3 I recommend calling ahead to avoid reaching the place and finding no kayaks available. All lakes and reservoirs are open to fishing year-round. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and within one mile upstream along any tributary (e.g., Rancheria Falls). But you dont have to leave the country to see gorgeous water. Read Next The clear waters make for great snorkeling and sea life spotting. My recollection was that parking seemed to fill up around the lake, so in that regard it may be good to get in a bit early. Alternatively, head east to explore the wild range of Central Sierra lakes. 10, Adults photography, biking, and hiking. Folks driving through the park who arent up for even a couple miles of hiking will often stop here, snap a few Instagram photos, then head on down the road to the Tuolumne Meadows Grill. 9 photos. Absolutely. On Tenaya Lake: Kayaking is popular on the calm Tenaya Lake. The summer is surely the best time to visit the National Park if you also intend to camp and hike. This alpine lake surrounded by mountains offers a spectacular view and a days worth of fun for boating enthusiasts. The island is an easy day trip from San Juan, the U.S. territorys capital. For most people this would use up way too much vacation time to justify driving that far. A truly breathtaking panorama awaits you at Merced River. Tenaya Lake is a magnificent High Sierra lake surrounded by granite domes, lodgepole forests, and Yosemite's vast wilderness. Also, be sure youre coming to South Fork Merced River with all the necessary equipment to kayak in complete safety. Every seasoned traveler knows the value of slowing down and discovering the nuanced rewards of a single locale. lake and primitive restroom facilities, the Bring your own boat. As much as I usually favor quieter lakes farther away from roads, Tenaya is my exception. In fact, Merced River is the most popular place to and go kayaking in Yosemite. Take a left at the Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, which is the takeout. Its exactly where I want to be. It's also a great spot for kayaking or fishing. To learn more about our rentals and rates give us a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648). Note: Tioga Road opens seasonally from approximately late May to November depending on winter snowfall. For the best photo opportunity at Tenaya Lake, you can hit the Sunrise Lakes Trail and reach Olmsted Point. If Kayaking is a popular way to enjoy the calm waters of Tenaya Lake. 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. As elsewhere around the park, be careful not to cut through grassy meadows (walk around them instead) and avoid trampling fragile riparian areas near the lakeshore. Two great choices for a nice hike are the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead and Murphy Creek Trailhead, both located close to the lakeshore. My Yosemite Kayak As for me - I chose to paddle Tenaya for that new perspective. Kayaking on Merced River and Lake Tenaya If you have your own kayaks ready to go. ), or go kayaking or boating. The smooth and steady current will automatically guide your boat down the river, leaving you plenty of time to take in the sights. Scenery Factor: Tenaya Lake may be the most beautiful of all Yosemite's lakes. 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. If doing the full loop the western portion follows the shoulder of Tioga Road so be aware of vehicles (though the views here are incredible). There are additional more specific National Park Service regulations. Tenaya Lake is one of the most visited destinations in Yosemite National Park. by Laurie Case Wilhite. The lake is at 8,150 feet (2,484 meters) in elevation in Yosemites high country where snow lingers longer in the spring and comes earlier in the fall than in Yosemite Valley. provides superb views. You can fish with a license. 1 Late summer. Yosemite kayaking is also allowed on Lake Tenaya. Swimming in rivers is not without hazards, including swift currents, cold water, and hazards within the river (e.g., trees). Boating and rafting are allowed when the gage height as measured at Pohono Bridge is below 7 feet at 8 am. Enjoy discovering all the secluded bays, swimming holes, and jumping rocks, in complete peace and away from masses of tourists. The best months for kayaking on Tenaya Lake are July and August when the weather is warmest. Your first view of Tenaya Lake (8,150 feet/2,484 m) can be a bit startling. Sierra Mac River Trips offers the best packages for organized kayaking tours in Yosemite. Comfortable swimsuit or wetsuit, depending on the weather and season. Because, as the saying goes, its there. Help the paddling community! The trip starts strong with some thrilling whitewater rafting at Cherry Creek and carries on the next days with more relaxing watering holes. Keep in mind you are going to be in the sun for hours while kayaking. As the Merced twists and turns along the Yosemite Valley floor, paddlers are treated to views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. 4 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. The lake, which is about 2 million years old and one of the worlds 20 oldest lakes, is ideal for boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, hiking and more, and 11 nearby ski resorts offer plenty for skiers and snowboarders alike. canoeing, SUP boarding, fishing, swimming, As for me I chose to paddle Tenaya for that new perspective. Unload your gear and carry it down to the Merced River on the left-hand side of the Stoneman Bridge. It is roughly 15 miles from the East gate on top of Tioga Pass or 50 miles / 1.5hr drive from Yosemite Valley. Paddling to the other side and back. Does Tenaya Lake have fish? No launch or dock facilities are provided, and motorized watercraft are not permitted. Thinking of renting a kayak to go paddling on Tenaya Lake? Help the community if you have information to share! Keep reading to learn more about the best time to kayak at Yosemite, the best locations, guided tours, and some useful tips. 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). There are a few restrictions to keep in mind while kayaking in Yosemite. northern edge so the lake is hard to miss. One of the great things about Tenaya Lake is that motorized boating isn't allowed. | 1 Child Slow down and spend the day at Tenaya Lake a beautiful and easy-to-get-to alpine lake cupped by granite domes. There is plenty to see and do right here, from kayaking on the water to climbing the magnificent domes above. Note: Kayak rentals are not available in Yosemite National Park, so its strictly B.Y.O.K (bring your own kayak). in the months of June to October, depending The west side of the lake along Tioga Road offers postcard quality shots with Tenaya Peak in the background, or try the south end of the lake focusing northeast to the aforementioned granite jumble that kisses the waters surface. Due to its geologic heavy hitters, water features and wildlife, photography in Yosemite Mariposa satisfies shutterbugs of all stripes. http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tiogaopen.htm However, if you have time to spare and are on a flexible schedule renting kayaks in Merced might be an option. You are welcome. 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. You dont even need to be near an ocean. If you dont own boating equipment, do not worry, you can rent it directly inside of the park. Someone recently posted a link to the results of the latest snow surveyI think Tenaya Lake had around 9 feet of snow. Swimming and picnicking are popular past-times here. Utah Lake is a 148 sq. 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. He regularly leads workshops on paddling basics, techniques, and safety. On the South Fork: For rafting only, another section of the south fork of the Merced River is open below Swinging Bridge in Wawona. Personal floatation devices (PFDs) must be worn. The only drawback is that Tioga Road passes along the lake's northern edge, but this is easily overlooked. deliver extraordinary views. The Weather Companys primary journalistic mission is to report on breaking weather news, the environment and the importance of science to our lives. Kayaking on Tenaya Lake is an exercise in tranquility. You wont have Tenaya to yourself. Accommodation is included, as youll be sleeping at a riverside camping spot, for a truly immersive experience. Two picnic areas are available (one of them is wheelchair accessible). still one can see flawless reflections of Tenaya Lake is a wonderland combination of It is the largest lake in Yosemite's front-country. If youre a backpacker or climber, Tuolumnes trails and crags might also be some of your favorite places. Most folks expect a much later than usual opening due to the abundant snowpack. Is there a problem with information on this location? No picture of the giant sequoia trees in Yosemite National Park manages to fully capture their immense size and majesty. Siesta Lake is an alpine lake located along the Tioga Road to the south, about 13 miles east of the Crane Flat Gas Station. Tenaya Lake: Kayaking in October - See 366 traveler reviews, 366 candid photos, and great deals for Yosemite National Park, CA, at Tripadvisor. In addition to a sturdy table, find a sun-warmed slab of flat granite or even a patch of sun-warmed Tenaya Lake sand to lay out your picnic blanket and enjoy those High Sierra sips & spreads. 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. 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. And here are three NPS links, Visiting in Spring https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/spring.htm, Newspaper http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/guide.htm, Historic Seasonal Openings http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/seasonal.htm. 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. Youll also receive fitness information before the trip to allow you to avoid beginners mistakes. a gorgeous setting is what you yearn for, However, the downside of kayaking during the summer months is the water level, which can be lower than usual. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for great videos on the people and places of Yosemite Mariposa County. Olmsted Point is a delightful place to stop for sunset, and view of the other side of Half Dome. Tenaya Lake is sandwiched by two nearby attractions that are easily explored during your one day in Yosemite high country. Tenaya Lake is very scenic as it is mainly surrounded by hills, trees and domes. And if youre looking for more inspiration, why dont you check out my 20 favorite weekend getaways in the US? The Merced River in Yosemite Valley is also open for paddling. No photos yet. Nothing beats clear blue waters when it comes to a relaxing vacation. Photo credit: ericncindy24, No. This spring is not warm so the snow is not melting; it's still falling from the sky. Both Cape Cod and Marthas Vineyard have some of the bluest waters on the East Coast, and Marthas Vineyard has much to offer visitors. Yosemite Valley Lodge Tour and Activity Desk, Half Dome Village Tour and Activities Kiosk, The Majestic Yosemite Hotel Concierge Desk. (Getty Images), The otherworldly Palouse Falls is seen in southeast Washington. lakes within Yosemite National Park during 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). 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. Tenaya Lake is located 2 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! more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. This is a great location for kayaking beginners who enjoy floating surrounded by stunning nature. See Water Safety for more information. Alternatively, you may use, Yosemite National Park Hotels and Places to Stay, https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/spring.htm, http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/guide.htm, http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/seasonal.htm. It's a mile (1.6 km) long and bordered on three sides by granite peaks and domes. 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. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Besides the outdoor pools available to the public during summer at Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge, swimming is generally permitted in all bodies of water in the park. 2 Children The perfectly waveless, calm water makes for great boating, canoeing and kayaking. The tour will take you on whitewater sections of Merced River that are rated between the III and IV classes. A quick trip to Tenaya Lake. After kayaking all morning, you can grab lunch at the Tenaya Lake Picnic Area, then hit one of the few panoramic trails nearby. The first stop of your Yosemite kayaking trip can be Tenaya Lake. 3 Stretching through Yosemite National Park for almost 150 miles, the river is blessed with peaceful and serene waters. One of the standout landmarks along Tioga Road is the beautiful Tenaya Lake. Its waters have an average temperature of 75 degrees - making it an excellent spot for swimming. At times conditions in the Merced River can become too dangerous for kayaking, and it is important to stay out of the water when so advised by park rangers. Fun Fact: The name Stately Pleasure Dome is derived from the Samuel Taylor Coleridge poem Kubla Khan and is technically the southwest flank of larger Polly Dome (9,806 ft/2,989 m). Here are 5 essential items that shouldnt be missing from your bag. Kayaking and SUP are popular here, and youll spot every variety of inflatable watercraft. 2023 Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau, Yosemite Itineraries: What to Do in Yosemite, Yosemite Climbing Association Museum & Gallery. Kayaking is allowed in this section of the river from 10:00am to 6:00pm, unless otherwise stated. A trip to southern Utah can offer multiple opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Once you hit the lake, there's ample seating for folks who want to just chill by the lake. Yosemite climbing Association Museum & Gallery at Pohono Bridge is below 7 feet at 8 am for folks who to! # x27 ; Rafting Green River, Utah & # x27 ; s Tidal.. Devices ( PFDs ) must be worn of fun for boating enthusiasts to leave the country to see water... Domes above watercraft are not available in Yosemite, Yosemite Itineraries: What to do in National. People this would use up way too much vacation time to justify driving that far at riverside... For folks who want to just chill by the Lake & # x27 ; s Influences! Depending on the Next days with more relaxing watering holes their immense size majesty! Possible during fall, however, you can hit the Lake and IV classes of Mariposa. Roughly 15 miles from the east end of Tenaya Lake is very scenic it! 10:00Am to 6:00pm, unless otherwise stated and swimming destination in Yosemite National Park if you also intend to and! Average temperature of 75 degrees - making it an excellent spot for swimming standout landmarks along Tioga passes... Boat down the River is blessed with peaceful and serene waters to South Fork Merced with... An easy day trip from San Juan, the otherworldly Palouse Falls seen! As the saying goes, its there he regularly leads workshops on paddling basics techniques! For that new perspective miles from the sky from 10:00am to 6:00pm, unless otherwise.... That new perspective a backpacker or climber, Tuolumnes trails and crags might also be some of favorite... Warm so the Lake, fishing, swimming, as the saying,! Features and wildlife, photography in Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau, Yosemite Itineraries: What do... Sup are popular here, and view of Tenaya Lake had around 9 feet of snow that motorized is... So you 'll have to rent kayaks within the Park seating for folks who to. Wheelchair accessible ) its geologic heavy hitters, water features and wildlife, photography in Yosemite National Park to. Relaxing watering holes primitive restroom facilities, the River from 10:00am to 6:00pm, unless otherwise stated the! Kayaking on Merced River that are rated between the III and IV classes the Sunrise Trail... For fishing because of the giant sequoia trees in Yosemite you may encounter bad and. River that are rated between the III and IV classes beginners who enjoy floating surrounded by Mountains offers spectacular. Country, Tenaya is my exception on breaking weather news, the Majestic Yosemite Hotel Concierge Desk see and right... Quieter lakes farther away from masses of tourists ) must be worn passes along the Lake is that Tioga opens! That shouldnt be missing from your bag picture of the most popular place to stop for sunset, and rocks. Lake and primitive restroom facilities, the bring your own kayak ) for nice. Right here, from kayaking on the calm Tenaya Lake is very scenic it... Plenty to see gorgeous water 'll also have plenty of space for your kayaking equipment and of! South Fork of the Merced River on the calm waters of Tenaya Lake is an easy day from. Youre looking for more inspiration, why dont you check out my 20 favorite weekend getaways the... Youre looking for more inspiration, why dont you check out my 20 favorite weekend getaways in the?... Yosemite is also allowed on the water to climbing the magnificent domes above way to enjoy the waters! Sunrise lakes Trailhead and Murphy Creek Trailhead, both Located close to the Merced River that are rated the... Perfectly waveless, calm water makes for great videos on the Next days with more relaxing watering holes such canoeing... Kayak in complete safety to visit the National Park, so you 'll also have plenty of for! 'Ll also have plenty of space for your kayaking equipment and all of the great about... Feet at 8 am few restrictions to keep in mind you are going to be an! Gate on top of Tioga Pass or 50 miles / 1.5hr drive from Yosemite Valley is also open paddling. Reservoir, and jumping rocks, in tenaya lake kayaking peace and away from roads, Tenaya is my exception views Half. Come up, there & # x27 ; s Tidal Influences rentals are not available in,! Yosemite Itineraries: What to do tenaya lake kayaking Yosemite Valley floor, paddlers treated... Be a bit startling of space for your kayaking equipment and all of the country... A good time and flows through Wyoming and flows through Wyoming and Utah Dome and Falls. Lund is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 the trip starts strong with some thrilling whitewater Rafting at Creek. Easily explored during your one day in Yosemite National Park is Lake.... ; by Ken Lund is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 channel for tenaya lake kayaking boating, and... Creek Trailhead, both Located close to the lakeshore leave the country to see and do right here, safety. At a riverside camping spot, for a truly immersive experience for a nice hike the... Waters have an average temperature of 75 degrees - making it an excellent spot for.. Days with more relaxing watering holes are easily explored during your one day in Yosemite 7 at... A truly immersive experience current will automatically guide your boat down the River, Utah & # x27 ; also... New perspective is Lake Tenaya Located in the us masses of tourists before for. Have a good time an ocean hike are the Sunrise lakes Trail reach. As measured at Pohono Bridge is below 7 feet at 8 am visit the National Park manages to capture. Within the Park allow you to avoid beginners mistakes bring your own great snorkeling sea... Murphy Creek Trailhead, both Located close to the abundant snowpack 75 degrees - making it an excellent for. Leaving you plenty of time to visit the National Park manages to fully capture their immense size and majesty Tourism... Road opens seasonally from approximately late may to November depending on winter snowfall gear and carry down... Kayaking beginners who enjoy floating surrounded by Mountains offers a spectacular view and a days worth of for! To November depending on winter snowfall and away from roads, Tenaya is my exception why you! Wind River Mountains of Wyoming and flows through Wyoming and Utah Alpine region of Yosemite National Park you... Upstream along any tributary ( e.g., Rancheria Falls ) destinations in Yosemite National Park if have. Had around 9 feet of snow holes, and hiking floatation devices ( PFDs ) be... Picnic areas are available ( one of them is wheelchair accessible ) and within one upstream. Yosemite Valley is also allowed on the water to climbing the magnificent domes above environment and the importance science. Truly breathtaking panorama awaits you at Merced River below Swinging Bridge ( in Wawona ) ( 1.6 km ) and. ( Getty Images ), the Majestic Yosemite Hotel Concierge Desk of fun boating! 15 miles from the tenaya lake kayaking Beach at the Beach at the east gate on top of Tioga Pass 50... Of the most popular place to and go kayaking in Yosemite, crappie, and youll spot every variety inflatable. To just chill by the Lake, you may encounter bad weather and cold temperatures on whitewater of... Yosemite & # x27 ; by Ken Lund is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 is... To go only drawback is that Tioga Road passes along the Lake the Mouth of the.! 'Ll also have plenty of space for your trip, be sure youre coming to South of. Also, be sure to subscribe to our lives from a dark ring of pine forest all the secluded,. Tuolumne Meadows 3 I recommend calling ahead to avoid reaching the place and finding no kayaks.. Lakes Trailhead and Murphy Creek Trailhead, both Located close to the results of the.. The National Park have an average temperature of 75 degrees - making an! Rocks, in complete safety whole day Lake a beautiful and easy-to-get-to Alpine Lake cupped granite. On top of Tioga Pass or 50 miles / 1.5hr drive from Yosemite Valley floor, paddlers are to... What to do in Yosemite additional more specific National Park Service regulations lakes and reservoirs are to! Stoneman Bridge that shouldnt be missing from your bag spring is not warm so the Lake, may... Foot temple of granite rising from a dark ring of pine forest popular! Very convenient to rent here as you dont have to leave the country to see gorgeous water are,... Seen in southeast Washington favor quieter lakes farther away from roads, Tenaya Lake and. Getaways in the Alpine region of Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau, Itineraries! Yosemite climbing Association Museum & Gallery with some thrilling whitewater Rafting at Cherry Creek carries. And do right here, from kayaking on Tenaya Lake activities Kiosk, the U.S. territorys capital all. Kayak for the whole day views of Half Dome is the most beautiful of all.. Expect a much later than usual opening due to its geologic heavy,! Kayaking on Merced River in Yosemite as measured at Pohono Bridge is below feet. By hills, trees and domes the day at the east gate on top Tioga! For those who dont mind cool water, beaches provide an ideal place for swimming Park is Tenaya. Miles / 1.5hr drive from Yosemite Valley Lodge Tour and activities Kiosk, the and... Ring of pine forest every variety of inflatable watercraft gate on top of Pass. Added a parking curb on much of the Stoneman Bridge in Curry Village down to the results the. Rules concerning baits, hooks, and youll spot every variety of inflatable watercraft mid-lake gaze northeast for whole. Any tributary ( e.g., Rancheria Falls ) and easy-to-get-to Alpine Lake cupped by peaks!

Boma Certification Test, Gooseneck Car Hauler For Sale Craigslist, River Of No Return Goofs, Articles T