Tenaya Lake Tours and Activities

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.

Plan a trip to see Tenaya Lake

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
The LEEF Hotel
Petit Ermitage
The Sun Rose West Hollywood

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Tenaya Lake

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
INSIDE YOSEMITE! Ten minutes from Yosemite Valley. SUMMER/FALL openings!

INSIDE YOSEMITE! Ten minutes from Yosemite Valley. SUMMER/FALL openings!

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
INSIDE YOSEMITE! Ten minutes from Yosemite Valley. SUMMER/FALL openings!
The Ahweanee in Foresta, Inside Yosemite National Park

The Ahweanee in Foresta, Inside Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park
The Ahweanee in Foresta, Inside Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Mountain Lodge

Yosemite Mountain Lodge

Yosemite
Yosemite Mountain Lodge
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

Tenaya Lake offers a range of activities for visitors, including scenic hiking and camping opportunities. Enjoy leisurely walks along easy trails, perfect for all skill levels, and discover picturesque picnic areas to relax and take in the stunning views. Whether you're looking for a fun trail adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, Tenaya Lake is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Yosemite National Park.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, you can visit El Portal Market, located 32.2km away from Tenaya Lake. This store offers a range of gifts and souvenirs, perfect for bringing a piece of Yosemite back home with you.

Recreation

Enjoy a serene day at Swinging Bridge Picnic Area, perfect for relaxation amidst nature. For a rejuvenating experience, visit Ascent, the Spa at Tenaya Lodge, where you can indulge in body treatments. If you're up for some outdoor sports, Wawona Golf Course offers a fantastic golfing experience surrounded by stunning scenery.

Adventure

May Lake Trail offers a stunning 8.0km hike through Yosemite’s breathtaking scenery, perfect for adventure seekers. For a family-friendly experience, visit Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, located 16.1km away, where you can enjoy outdoor activities. The Mist Trail, 14.5km from Tenaya Lake, provides an exhilarating hiking experience amidst nature.

Nightlife

Experience the charm of the Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater, located 14.5km from Tenaya Lake. Enjoy captivating performances in a setting that blends culture and romance, perfect for families looking for a memorable evening in the heart of nature.

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

Find the best attractions near Tenaya Lake

At Tenaya Lake in Yosemite National Park, visitors can immerse themselves in stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Key attractions include the beautiful lake itself, Yosemite Valley, and Yosemite Creek, perfect for those seeking exploration and relaxation. The area features visitor centres, rocky landscapes, and steppe regions, offering a variety of experiences for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking vistas and activities that this iconic destination has to offer.

  • Half Dome: This iconic granite rock formation stands majestically 11.3km from Tenaya Lake, offering breathtaking scenery and a truly exhilarating outdoor experience. Hiking to its summit presents an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Yosemite Visitor Center: Located 14.5km from Tenaya Lake, this centre is the perfect starting point for families and adventurers alike. With engaging exhibits and knowledgeable staff, it provides insight into the park's natural wonders and great outdoor vibes.
  • Tuolumne Meadows: Just 11.3km from Tenaya Lake, this stunning steppe features expansive meadows and picturesque views. Perfect for leisurely walks and picnics, it encapsulates the serene beauty and outdoor charm of Yosemite.

Best time to go to Tenaya Lake

The best time to visit Tenaya Lake is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. December and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny.

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 off-peak months of February to March and November when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can lead to better rates, and using Expedia's last-minute deals may provide additional savings. Saturdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Sundays are the priciest. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package for further discounts. Don't forget to take advantage of free activities in the park, such as hiking and sightseeing, to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.

  • 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Tenaya Lake is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget and chosen destination, among other preferences. You can arrange your search results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you can refine your selection by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Tenaya Lake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia