The road will still be closed for the winter. The trip starts strong with some thrilling whitewater rafting at Cherry Creek and carries on the next days with more relaxing watering holes. 3 The river is an absolute must-see of Yosemite, with its crystalline waters perfect for swimming, and of course kayaking. 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. Keep in mind you are going to be in the sun for hours while kayaking. crowd factor is usually not as much of a For the more experienced boaters looking for some fun, Merced River also offers whitewater rafting opportunities. in a region of astonishing beauty, at 8,150 It is the largest lake in Yosemite's front-country. hiking trail around the lakes perimeter Also go paddling early in the morning or late in the evening when Tenaya Lake tends to be the calmest. 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. If youre apt to swim and boating in colder water, youll find the best kayaking conditions (with lots of water) between April and June. Swimming and picnicking are popular past-times here. 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. How to get there: Tenaya Lake is about 20 minutes east of Tuolumne Meadows and the Tuolumne River along Tioga Rd (Hwy 120). However, if you have time to spare and are on a flexible schedule renting kayaks in Merced might be an option. For this reason, there is a minimum age requirement of 7 years. 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. Children Besides fishing and swimming, Utah Lake is also an excellent spot for canoeing and kayaking. Here are 5 essential items that shouldnt be missing from your bag. Tenaya lake is located along the Route 120 through the park. Even at its most active, the portion of the Merced River running through the main valley is a gentle stream, but even the most experienced paddlers will not soon forget it. Yes, Tenaya Lake has a Launch Point for Kayaks and Canoes. relax and excite you. 2 Adults Personal floatation devices (PFDs) must be worn. On another thread, FresnoFacts posted this youtube about the initial approach to Ebbett's Pass: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHA9I8XoUtM&feature=youtu.be. ' Rafting Green River, Utah ' by Ken Lund is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Here is the full price list and hourly rates for renting kayaks with Padyak Shak at Yosemite. Tenaya Lake is a wonderland combination of As the Merced twists and turns along the Yosemite Valley floor, paddlers are treated to views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. The water is crystal clear. Swimming in rivers is not without hazards, including swift currents, cold water, and hazards within the river (e.g., trees). canoeing, SUP boarding, fishing, swimming, Tenaya Lake is surrounded by other amazing overlooks and fantastic scenery. Emerging through the pines, its waters look as though theyre poised to lap over the road while up ahead the steep, smooth granite of Stately Pleasure Dome meets the unrelenting rise of Tenaya Peak (10,306 ft/3,141 m) forming a gauntlet of granite where Tenaya Creek feeds the lake with pure snowmelt in spring. 6 Fishing regulations for Yosemite National Park follow those set by the state of California, including the requirement that people 16 or older have a valid California fishing license. On the Merced River: When bringing their own gear, you normally put in along the Merced River at Stoneman Bridge, near Half-Dome Village. For the best photo opportunity at Tenaya Lake, you can hit the Sunrise Lakes Trail and reach Olmsted Point. Put-in and take-out slots are limited; check for availability. 2 Nights These iconic scenes seem to appear and disappear with every bend. Below is a list of some of the bluest waters in the U.S., from glass-like glacial lakes to a lake within a collapsed volcano crater, to a mineral-rich crystal blue creek in the Grand Canyon. You can park here. Take the road over the Stoneman Bridge and follow the road around and continue past El Capitan. The trail can be accessed from either the main . At your firstcrossroad,the Stoneman Bridge will be on your left. That doesnt mean you cant stop watching the weather for sudden changes or winds that can quickly come up. Water temperature will be incredibly cold and will probably not reach 50 degrees. No picture of the giant sequoia trees in Yosemite National Park manages to fully capture their immense size and majesty. If you dont own boating equipment, do not worry, you can rent it directly inside of the park. For other info about Yosemite, please check the Top Questions on the right (full TripAdvisor website) as well as the NPS.gov pages. Tenaya lake is an absolutely stunning glacial lake located in the Eastern part of Yosemite national park ! A nylon shell jacket can make a difference in bad weather. The season for stream and river fishing begins on the last Saturday in April and continues through November 15. Soft sand, blue waters and plenty of nearby amenities make this a popular swimming and sunbathing spot. Exploring Merced River by boat is especially fun because of the many hidden beaches youll be able to spot from the water. 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 Merced River in Yosemite Valley is also open for paddling. I recommend calling ahead to avoid reaching the place and finding no kayaks available. Most folks expect a much later than usual opening due to the abundant snowpack. As for me I chose to paddle Tenaya for that new perspective. Yosemite National Park is arguably one of the most beautiful places on earth but can you kayak it? Tenaya Lake has a beach on its east side, made for lazing. 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. Absolutely. Call today! We're first-time visitors, so didn't even think to check that road opening. 7 4 Nights This is one of the most exciting spots in Yosemite to raft and kayak, with its difficulty level rated at Class IV+. Explore the rocky northeast shore of Tenaya Lake. With Hawaiis countless stunning beaches, its tough to pick one with the most beautiful waters, but Waimanalo Beach in Oahu certainly ranks. 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. It is mainly referred to as the "Jewel of the High country." You will undoubtedly enjoy paddling through the waters. of nights This story does not necessarily represent the position of our parent company, IBM. Surrounded by If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. 4 The can be done in part or in full (2.5 mile loop/4 km) with minimum elevation gain and maximum views. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. No trips have been created that use this paddling location. If youre a backpacker or climber, Tuolumnes trails and crags might also be some of your favorite places. I went on a weekday so take this with a grain of salt, but traffic wasn't too bad. There are no kayak rentals available at Tenaya Lake or anywhere in Yosemite National Park. The best months for kayaking on Tenaya Lake are July and August when the weather is warmest.. They haven't even started plowing Tioga Road yet, and the daytime highs up there are in the 30's. Tenaya Lake offers a wide range of The take-out is downstream from a beach with a wooden bridge on river left. 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. Raft reservations are in heavy demand, so try to reserve a raft at least one day in advance. Photo credit: ericncindy24, No. I have a goal to visit all 50 states. With a cool Sierra breeze skimming its cerulean waters and a bounty of things to do, Tenaya Lake is the perfect spot for a deep dive when one day in Yosemite Mariposa is your travel du jour. From the west end of Tenaya Lake Stately Pleasure Dome rises out from the waters edge on the right. Stately Pleasure Dome, Piwiak Dome, and Tenaya Peak call for the cams amidst a framework of alpine beauty thats hard to match. I recommend kayaking at South Fork Merced River only to kayaking experts, who know how to navigate rivers with steep points and sometimes low water levels. ), or go kayaking or boating. Very little elevation gain (lakes are notoriously level). Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and within one mile upstream along any tributary (e.g., Rancheria Falls). leisurely paddle, theres an abundance of Help the community if you have information to share! There are also many different types of fish that can be found in the lake, making it a great spot for fishing as well. The best months for kayaking on Tenaya Lake are July and August when the weather is warmest. If Kayaking is a popular way to enjoy the calm waters of Tenaya Lake. Maybe another inch or two has fallen. Located just outside Yosemite National Park (but easily reachable by car), Tuolumne River is a whitewater rafting lovers dream. Tenaya Lake on a windless day, with water so Before leaving for your trip, be sure to check out the specific fishing rules concerning baits, hooks, and possession limits. 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. paddle.Towering pines and steep granite Encounters with deer, Yosemite is great for fishing because of the large population of rainbow trout, crappie, and largemouth bass. 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. There is also a snack bar and gift shop located here in case you forgot to bring something to snack on or drink. With limited parking on both sides of the http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tiogaopen.htm. If you want to kayak, you will have to bring your own to the park, as there is no place anywhere within the park to rent a kayak. Tenaya is different. Always check current road conditions before heading up to Tenaya Lake. 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. The parking lot has multiple restrooms and the lake is a 5 minute walk (not a hike) from the parking lot. The Tenaya Lake Trail: The interplay between land and water at Tenaya Lake is something to behold. The island is an easy day trip from San Juan, the U.S. territorys capital. 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. This alpine lake surrounded by mountains offers a spectacular view and a days worth of fun for boating enthusiasts. Tenaya Lake is an Alpine lake lying between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. Amidst a backdrop of light colored granite rocks the lake is a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, sailing and fishing. But what about when the lake dries? Our friendly staff looks forward to answering your questions about our great Yosemite lodging options. Quick dry kayak shoes are the best choice as they are designed specifically for long kayak trips. 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. Paddle out onto Tenaya Lake for a scenic tour around this popular alpine lake. For those who dont mind cool water, beaches provide an ideal place for swimming. paddling enthusiasts. Despite the company you may find. Hoffman, Tenaya Peak, Lembert Dome, and other giants. Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows on The Jewel of the High Country, Tenaya Lake. Tenaya Lake offers a wide range of recreational activities, from kayaking, canoeing, SUP boarding, fishing, swimming, photography, biking, and hiking. 1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona Was It Scary? 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 a magnificent High Sierra lake surrounded by granite domes, lodgepole forests, and Yosemite's vast wilderness. Check the current weather forecast for Tenaya Lake before heading out and pay particular attention to the wind conditions for the day. Because of its remarkable scenic qualities, its inviting blue water, and its proximity to Tioga Road, Tenaya Lake is one of the most popular destinations for summer . Tenaya Lake is absolutely beautiful. If its early on a weekday, your chances of snagging a spot are decent. Reservations should be made immediately upon entering the park, at the Half Dome Village Tour/Guest Recreation Kiosk. exhilaration of this scenic alpine lake Yosemite has amazing campgrounds. At the Padyak Shak, youll find solo kayaks, tandem kayaks, as well as equipment for stand-up paddleboards, and catamaran stand-up paddleboards. elevation in Yosemite National Park, between Kayaking is a popular way to enjoy the calm waters of Tenaya Lake. . provides superb views. About 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. 1 If you love fighting rapids in low water and difficult conditions, the Tuolumne River is the place for you. 3 Children Whether you choose a day trip on the Colorado River, a multiple day escape . But dont let the air temperature fool you, always check the water temperature before deciding what to wear. Stretching through Yosemite National Park for almost 150 miles, the river is blessed with peaceful and serene waters. Also, be sure youre coming to South Fork Merced River with all the necessary equipment to kayak in complete safety. 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.. (From Hoffman, youll look down on Tenaya Lake and Half Dome.). Take a right after the Chapel in the park. The rapids can be pretty tricky for beginners, and in general, this experience can be pretty demanding. Known for outstanding hiking The west end of this lake feels farthest from the road and has the calmest, most reflective waters. 1 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. For an adventurous and thrilling weekend, nothing beats the amazing national parks of the west coast. 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. Siesta Lake is an alpine lake located along the Tioga Road to the south, about 13 miles east of the Crane Flat Gas Station. First and foremost, it is essential to obey the rules and warnings of the park rangers. . Tioga Pass Road, which closes in the To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. activity and tranquility that will both Kayak Yosemite and float through the heart of Tuolumne Meadows, surrounded by the steepest of granites. Snow-capped peaks surround Jenny Lake, which is one of the most popular spots within Grand Teton National Park. Its exactly where I want to be. Tenaya Lake is on Tioga Road and will not be accessible in the second week of May. Lets talk about Tenaya. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for great videos on the people and places of Yosemite Mariposa County. 2 One of the great things about Tenaya Lake is that motorized boating isn't allowed. The relatively short and easy trail connects the scenic vistas and rocky coves of the west end to the broad beach and picnic areas of the lake's east end. Note: Kayak rentals are not available in Yosemite National Park, so its strictly B.Y.O.K (bring your own kayak). Children 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. When Cities Meet The Water: America's Top Urban Paddling Destinations. Kayaking on Merced River and Lake Tenaya If you have your own kayaks ready to go. Tenaya Lake had "only" 107 inches on March 26th, 156% of normal. This self-guided, totally affordable tour will take you on a 6-mile exploration of Merced River, and is available throughout the Summer. Drive into Yosemite Park via Route 140, the El Portal Road, and continue into the valley. Due to its geologic heavy hitters, water features and wildlife, photography in Yosemite Mariposa satisfies shutterbugs of all stripes. The tour will take you on whitewater sections of Merced River that are rated between the III and IV classes. 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). http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tiogaopen.htm 1 Adult No launch or dock facilities are provided, and motorized watercraft are not permitted. You can fish with a license. 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). With Tenaya Lakes 8,150 foot elevation, most folks prefer late season swims. 5 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. My husband and I are planning to visit Yosemite the second week of May. 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. It's a mile (1.6 km) long and bordered on three sides by granite peaks and domes. Due to environmental concerns, the park concession is no longer renting tubes, so youll need a car shuttle to kayak Yosemite Valley. Difficulty: Easy Closest kayak rental location: The Padyak Shack, Merced, CA (115 mi) This lake takes its name from Chief Tenaya, a prominent Ahwahnechee Indian leader who died in 1853. Kayak and SUP rentals are not available in Yosemite. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Convenient Yosemite Lodging Near Kayaking Sites A great way to make your Yosemite kayaking vacation even better is with a cabin, condominium, or home rental from Yosemite's Scenic Wonders. There are additional more specific National Park Service regulations. opportunities, in recent years, this In fact, Havasupai means people of the blue-green waters, according to the National Park Service. On the South Fork: For rafting only, another section of the south fork of the Merced River is open below Swinging Bridge in Wawona. No water will be navigable in May. | After a leisurely paddle, there's an abundance of hiking trails in the area to explore. 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. Its shallowest here, and surprisingly warm. You are welcome. Though just over a mile long, its granite-encircled shores provide paddlers with flat water (beginners welcome!) Rafting is also allowed on the South Fork of the Merced River below Swinging Bridge (in Wawona). Located 7 miles (11 km) east of Tenaya Lake is the High-Country hub of Tuolumne Meadows. The best months for kayaking in Yosemite are typically between May and September. 3 7/27/2021. Not sure when the big river rafts start running - you can check in the park newspaper or google Merced River Rafting Trips. There are fewer more fulfilling pursuits than Yosemite Mariposa picnicking. Pro Tip: Bring waterproof boots or take off your shoes & socks to cross the shallow outlet at the southwest end of Tenaya Lake, especially in spring and early summer. For example. The area is open again this season for the first time since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. lake and primitive restroom facilities, the Tenaya Lake is popular for water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. There are sandy beaches along the way to stop and take a swim or to stop for a picnic. Any non-motorized boat is allowed on the lake during the day. Here, too, each person on the craft must have a PFD available, and children under age 13 must wear them at all times. However, the downside of kayaking during the summer months is the water level, which can be lower than usual. 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. This 1-day trip is perfect for boating beginners that wish to explore Yosemite in a fun and unusual way. Most folks expect a much later than usual opening due to the abundant snowpack. Coming to the lake to kayak can be a great alternative to Merced River which can be quite busy during the summer months. Yosemite does have a few first-come-first-serve areas but they change the rules just about every year, so do your research. Copyright 2023 VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved. provides an unforgettable experience for But a variety of options are available for paddling the scenic Merced River in the bottom of Yosemite Valley, offering unique views of some of the park's most famous sights. Under the stone bridges that span the river every so often, you'll encounter many trout-filled eddies in the clear water. Boating in Yosemite is also possible during fall, however, you may encounter bad weather and cold temperatures. Nights Nothing beats clear blue waters when it comes to a relaxing vacation. 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. Help the community if you have information to share! The road to the lake normally opens up in May, though depending on snow it might . To learn more about our rentals and rates give us a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648). 4 Children You can see Tenaya Lake from Olmsted Point and as you drive past it. Tenaya Lake is encircled by Mt. Yosemite kayaking is also allowed on Lake Tenaya. The normal take-out point is about 3 miles downstream at Sentina Beach Picnic Area; no river access is available between these two points. Comfortable swimsuit or wetsuit, depending on the weather and season. Boasting turquoise waters and soft, white sand, beachgoers will be in paradise. Tenaya Lake is popular for for picnicking, swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing. Though just over a mile long, its granite-encircled shores provide paddlers with flat water (beginners welcome!) Someone recently posted a link to the results of the latest snow surveyI think Tenaya Lake had around 9 feet of snow. 4 Tenaya Lake. The surface of Tenaya Lake has an elevation of 8,150 feet. But you dont have to leave the country to see gorgeous water. Here, PFDs must be available for every occupant of the raft, and all children under age 13 must wear one at all times. There is plenty to see and do right here, from kayaking on the water to climbing the magnificent domes above. Located in the high country of Tuolumne Meadows, among the (somewhat) less-visited parts of Yosemite, Tuolumne is my favorite area to explore. problem as you might experience at other The 1-day trip includes lunch, while for multiple days accommodation (basic camp on sand river beaches) is also provided. Tenaya Lake: Kayaking in October - See 366 traveler reviews, 366 candid photos, and great deals for Yosemite National Park, CA, at Tripadvisor. Tenaya Lake is very scenic as it is mainly surrounded by hills, trees and domes. If you havent already explored this part of the park, I recommend combining your Tenaya paddle with a hike up Mt Hoffman, Lembert Dome, another nearby peak. Utah Lake. Bear Lake is located in North-Eastern Utah, with the southern half of the lake being in Utah and the northern half being in Idaho. 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). and unique views, not to mention the chance to drop a line for High Country trout. The light shining on and through the water at Tenaya Lake offers endless opportunities to take the perfect Yosemite photograph. Learn what to expect from Mirror Lake in various seasons. This East Coast gem has some of the bluest waters on Marthas Vineyard. Tenaya Lake is often calm which makes for safe and pleasant paddling. 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. 2.5 Home > Scenic Wonders Blog > Where are the best places for Kayaking in Yosemite? If You Want to Rent a Raft Rafting on the Merced River in Yosemite Valley requires no experience, and rafts can be rented at any of the following locations: There are several options or paddling in Yosemite, depending on if you are bringing your own equipment or wish to rent inner tubes or rafts and accessories. Does Tenaya Lake have a kayak/canoe Launch Point? Copyright 1994-Present Scenic Wonders, Inc. All rights reserved. 1 Child George Sayour is an American Canoe Associationcertified kayak instructor. Youll be responsible for transporting your kayak rental to and from Tenaya Lake. Tenaya Lake - Day 1 The first stop of your Yosemite kayaking trip can be Tenaya Lake. There are a few restrictions to keep in mind while kayaking in Yosemite. 5. the summer months. Get GUIDE No information on Parking & Fees has been added yet for this paddling location. With an elevation of 8,150 ft. One of the most popular spots for kayaking, boating, and swimming. Follow the signs for the Curry Village Recreation Center. 5 Children, Address: 7403 Yosemite Park Way. Travel. Good times! 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. 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. Granite boulders surround the lake, where visitors can swim, kayak and boat. northern edge so the lake is hard to miss. A trip to southern Utah can offer multiple opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. However, apart from the luxury lodging, youll also find they rent kayaks, rafts, and even bikes.

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