Tenaya Lake

Tenaya Lake
Tenaya Lake
Tenaya Lake
Tenaya Lake
Tenaya Lake


View a range of rock formations reflected in serene blue water. This popular destination allows families to hike along the lake’s shoreline.

Look for Tenaya Lake as you drive along Tioga Road through Yosemite National Park in California. It will be hard to pass by without stopping and letting all your senses take in the beautiful scenery. Melting snow and rain falling on the surrounding granite peaks flow into the lake. Dip your feet into the cool, clear water and enjoy several hours in this incredible setting.

Have a picnic, kayak or hike around the lake on a trail that families will find manageable. The trail is just a few miles long with several easy streams to cross. The views will undoubtedly provide a memorable experience for all family members. The trail starts and ends at different sections of the road, although you may want to begin at the west end where the first stream may prove to be the most challenging on the hike. Difficulty is dependent on water volume and no bridge is available to choose as an alternate route.

Take some great photos from this area that features stunning scenery from dawn to dusk. You might hear the lake being referred to as the jewel of the high country in this alpine area of the park. Note that the surface of the lake is at 8510 feet (2,480 meters) above sea level. Bring food and water and laze on the small beach as eagles soar high above.

An eco-sensitive grassy area known as Tuolumne Meadows is a few miles east of the lake. The National Park Service has restored the meadow and lake region to their former natural conditions. Visit the area by staying on trails and bridges while respecting the environment. Toilets are located at both ends of the lake along Tioga Road.

Discover the park’s alpine region at Tenaya Lake before or after observing other natural features in Yosemite Valley. Find Tioga Road near the eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park at Tioga Pass. Park at either end of the lake or use the wider parts of the road’s shoulders.

Popular places to visit


Top Tenaya Lake Hotel Deals

Curry Village

Curry Village

2.5 out of 5
9010 Curry Village Dr., Yosemite National Park, CA
Curry Village
The Ahwahnee

The Ahwahnee

4 out of 5
9005 Ahwahnee Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
The Ahwahnee
Curry Village

Curry Village

2 out of 5
9010 Curry Village Dr., 9010, Yosemite National Park, CA
Curry Village
Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite Valley Lodge

3 out of 5
9006 Yosemite Lodge Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite Valley Lodge

3 out of 5
9006 Yosemite Lodge Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Yosemite View Lodge

Yosemite View Lodge

2.5 out of 5
11136 Highway 140, El Portal, CA
Yosemite View Lodge
Yosemite Quail - Nestled in With a View!

Yosemite Quail - Nestled in With a View!

4 out of 5
7285 Yosemite Park Way, Yosemite, Valley, California 95389, United States, Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite Quail - Nestled in With a View!
Yosemite Aviary and Quail Within Yosemite - 2 Separate Units, Up To 14 Guests!

Yosemite Aviary and Quail Within Yosemite - 2 Separate Units, Up To 14 Guests!

4 out of 5
7285 Yosemite Park Way, Yosemite, Valley, California 95389, United States, Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite Aviary and Quail Within Yosemite - 2 Separate Units, Up To 14 Guests!
Inside Yosemite Park Winter Wonderland

Inside Yosemite Park Winter Wonderland

4 out of 5
7428 Yosemite Parkway, Yosemite National Park, CA
Inside Yosemite Park Winter Wonderland
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Tenaya Lake

At Tenaya Lake, visitors can enjoy a host of activities, including hiking and camping. The Tenaya Lake Trailhead offers access to friendly and fun trails suitable for all levels, making it an excellent choice for families and casual hikers. The hiking season typically spans from late spring to early autumn, ensuring ample opportunity to explore the easy trails and soak in the stunning natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.

Shopping

For souvenirs near Tenaya Lake, visit El Portal Market, located 32.2km away. If you're up for a drive, this store offers a range of local gifts and essentials, making it a worthwhile stop during your Yosemite adventure.

Recreation

The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area, located 16.1km from Tenaya Lake, offers a serene spot for relaxation amidst nature. For a more indulgent experience, visit Ascent, the Spa at Tenaya Lodge, 41.8km away, where rejuvenating body treatments await. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the Wawona Golf Course, 37.0km distant, in a picturesque outdoor setting.

Adventure

Embark on the Murphy Creek Trailhead, located 483m from Tenaya Lake, offering stunning scenery and exhilarating hikes. For a family-friendly experience, visit Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, 16.1km away, perfect for outdoor fun. Alternatively, tackle the May Lake Trail, 8.0km from the lake, for breathtaking views.

Nightlife

The Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater, located 14.5km from Tenaya Lake, offers a captivating blend of culture and romance. Enjoy enchanting performances in a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for an unforgettable night out under the stars in the stunning surroundings of Yosemite National Park.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Tenaya Lake

Tenaya Lake, nestled in Yosemite National Park, offers a wealth of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore the stunning scenery around the largest lake in the park, hike to the breathtaking Tenaya Glacier, and discover the beauty of Yosemite Valley. With its captivating rocks and expansive steppe, Tenaya Lake is a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature's splendour.

  • Half Dome: A magnificent granite monolith located 11.3km from Tenaya Lake, Half Dome offers stunning views and a challenging hike for adventurous souls. Its iconic shape and breathtaking scenery make it a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
  • Tuolumne Meadows: Just 11.3km away, Tuolumne Meadows is a picturesque steppe, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics amidst wildflowers and expansive vistas. The serene atmosphere invites exploration and relaxation in the great outdoors.
  • Yosemite Visitor Center: Situated 14.5km from Tenaya Lake, the Yosemite Visitor Center serves as an excellent starting point for your adventure. It offers insightful exhibits, family-friendly activities, and outdoor information to enhance your park experience.

Best time to go to Tenaya Lake

The best time to visit Tenaya Lake can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Tenaya Lake falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Tenaya Lake falls in December and February. February has low visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January27.7°F (-2.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
February26.6°F (-3.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
March28.9°F (-1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June54.3°F (12.4°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
July62.8°F (17.1°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
August61.0°F (16.1°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
September55.6°F (13.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
November33.6°F (0.9°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December26.6°F (-3.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Tenaya Lake

To save money on your trip to Tenaya Lake, consider visiting during the cheaper months of February to March and November, avoiding the peak season of June to August. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for better rates, and look for last-minute deals on sites like Expedia. Saturdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Sundays are the most costly. Additionally, utilise Expedia's price filter to find the best offers and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities to save even more.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Tenaya Lake are February to March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Tenaya Lake about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Tenaya Lake is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Tenaya Lake is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Tenaya Lake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.