2 There are a few restrictions to keep in mind while kayaking in Yosemite. Though just over a mile long, its granite-encircled shores provide paddlers with flat water (beginners welcome!) Dont know where to start? If youre planning a trip to Yosemite but youre not set on the dates yet, youll find the best weather conditions and highest water temperatures between July and August. On Tenaya Lake: Kayaking is popular on the calm Tenaya Lake. Bigger than the state of Rhode Island. photography, biking, and hiking. You can also swim in the lake but the water is very cold. However, the downside of kayaking during the summer months is the water level, which can be lower than usual. 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. On weekends, head straight for the National Forest campgrounds just east of the park. Kayaking and fishing go hand in hand, as its easy to reach amazing remote fishing spots with the freedom and flexibility that the kayak provides. A quick trip to Tenaya Lake. 3 Despite the company you may find. Kayaking is a popular way to enjoy the calm waters of Tenaya Lake. We're first-time visitors, so didn't even think to check that road opening. For an adventurous and thrilling weekend, nothing beats the amazing national parks of the west coast. 10, Adults elevation in Yosemite National Park, between (MORE: These Are The Best Beaches Of 2023). 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. Tenaya Lake is popular for for picnicking, swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing. When Cities Meet The Water: America's Top Urban Paddling Destinations. Kayaks are recommended for this trip, although the National Park Service (NPS) allows any non-motorized boats on the lake. Tenaya Lake is popular for water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. You can see Tenaya Lake from Olmsted Point and as you drive past it. Olmsted Point is a delightful place to stop for sunset, and view of the other side of Half Dome. Nights Its exactly where I want to be. Every occupant of a boat, raft, or inflatable must wear a personal flotation device each day when the gage height at Pohono Bridge is above 4 feet at 8 am. 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. 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. 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. on when the snow melts. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-99464891', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite Valley river raft float trips open when the combination of air temperature & water temperature is at least 100 degrees AND the river is low enough to float under the bridges. This is to help ensure the safety of all visitors to the park. For this reason, there is a minimum age requirement of 7 years. We update our blog weekly, so be sure to visit frequently to get the latest news. I went on a weekday so take this with a grain of salt, but traffic wasn't too bad. Tioga Pass Road, which closes in the No launch or dock facilities are provided, and motorized watercraft are not permitted. . Children This 1-day trip is perfect for boating beginners that wish to explore Yosemite in a fun and unusual way. ), or go kayaking or boating. Tenaya Lake is often calm which makes for safe and pleasant paddling. From mid-lake gaze northeast for the unmistakable Pywiack Dome, a 600 foot temple of granite rising from a dark ring of pine forest. It is a tiny lake, but 8 You can kayak all along the Merced River from Stoneman Bridge in Curry Village down to Sentinel Point Beach. The shuttle wont take your canoe or kayak, but it can get you back up theriver. The paddling season is typically There are no kayak rentals available at Tenaya Lake or anywhere in Yosemite National Park. 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. It's a mile (1.6 km) long and bordered on three sides by granite peaks and domes. But what about when the lake dries? | You wont have to worry about your kayak capsizing because of large wakes created by fast drivers or accidentally being hit. 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. Once you hit the lake, there's ample seating for folks who want to just chill by the lake. Also, be sure youre coming to South Fork Merced River with all the necessary equipment to kayak in complete safety. 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 National Park Blog Our Yosemite National Park blog contains a variety of great information on the park, things to do inside the park as well as tips pertaining to Yosemite reservations. The island is an easy day trip from San Juan, the U.S. territorys capital. Help the paddling community! Tenaya Lake is encircled by Mt. relax and excite you. 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. 4 If You Bring Your Own Canoe, Kayak, Raft, or Innertube, Driving Directions andShuttleInformation, Canoeing and Kayaking Rock Springs Run and Kings Landing, Best Places to Kayak on Florida's Rainbow River, Kayaking and Tubing the Esopus Creek in Phoenicia, New York, Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, Installation Overview: Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, Kayaking, Canoeing, and Rafting in Alabama, Tennessee Kayaking, Canoeing, and Rafting, Food and Beverage Chain Mission Statements, Drive That Tube/Towable to Work Behind the Boat, Paddling Canoes and Kayaks Is Great Exercise. As for me I chose to paddle Tenaya for that new perspective. Download the official NPS app before your next visit, Every occupant of a boat, raft, or inflatable must. 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 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). Comfortable swimsuit or wetsuit, depending on the weather and season. Take a left at the Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, which is the takeout. You wont have Tenaya to yourself. Snow-capped peaks surround Jenny Lake, which is one of the most popular spots within Grand Teton National Park. bald eagles and even bears are not uncommon. The lake is easily accessed by Highway 120/Tioga Pass road which runs along the north shore of the lake. Tenaya Lake is located Follow the signs for the Curry Village Recreation Center. The Merced is at or near peak flow then, though, so no kayaking. The trail can be accessed from either the main . Kayaking on Tenaya Lake is an exercise in tranquility. 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. 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. These iconic scenes seem to appear and disappear with every bend. recreational activities, from kayaking, Your first view of Tenaya Lake (8,150 feet/2,484 m) can be a bit startling. Its not uncommon to see people swimming and wading at the base of the waterfall. 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. Visitors to Tenaya Lake earn their splash rewards with a refreshing Yosemite Mariposa swim in a High Country pool unlike any other. Mirror Lakes famous spring-time reflections capture the eye and mind. Difficulty: Easy. With an elevation of 8,150 ft. One of the most popular spots for kayaking, boating, and swimming. Tenaya lake is located along the Route 120 through the park. See Water Safety for more information. wintertime. For this reason, I only recommend this tour to boating experts, who are confident in their endurance and fitness. Note: Kayak rentals are not available in Yosemite National Park, so its strictly B.Y.O.K (bring your own kayak). Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows on Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and within one mile upstream along any tributary (e.g., Rancheria Falls). Sign up for the Morning Brief email newsletter to get weekday updates from The Weather Channel and our meteorologists. Rafting along the Merced River is popular during summer. The summer is surely the best time to visit the National Park if you also intend to camp and hike. Kayaking is allowed in this section of the river from 10:00am to 6:00pm, unless otherwise stated. At your firstcrossroad,the Stoneman Bridge will be on your left. After a Utah Lake. Tenaya Lake offers a wide range of recreational activities, from kayaking, canoeing, SUP boarding, fishing, swimming, photography, biking, and hiking. (Raico Rosenberg/Getty Images), Massive Waves From Atlantic Storm Noa Smash The England Coast, swimming and wading at the base of the waterfall, is the largest lake in Yosemites frontcountry, not as rocky as other beaches on the island, one of the most popular spots within Grand Teton National Park, rated one of the best beaches in the world. sparkling blue water and two-and-a-half Home > Scenic Wonders Blog > Where are the best places for Kayaking in Yosemite? In fact, Havasupai means people of the blue-green waters, according to the National Park Service. 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. On the Merced River: When bringing their own gear, you normally put in along the Merced River at Stoneman Bridge, near Half-Dome Village. 5 Nights, Adults How to get there: Tenaya Lake is about 20 minutes east of Tuolumne Meadows and the Tuolumne River along Tioga Rd (Hwy 120). Accommodation is included, as youll be sleeping at a riverside camping spot, for a truly immersive experience. 5 How deep is Tenaya Lake? 2 Located along Bean Creek near the historic town of Coulterville, this relaxing jaunt (1.4 miles out & back) leads to one of those old-fashioned swimming holes where Kodak memories are made. Tenaya Lake: Kayaking in October - See 366 traveler reviews, 366 candid photos, and great deals for Yosemite National Park, CA, at Tripadvisor. Scenery Factor: Tenaya Lake may be the most beautiful of all Yosemite's lakes. Thinking of renting a kayak to go paddling on Tenaya Lake? Tenaya Lake. Always check current road conditions before heading up to Tenaya Lake. 7/27/2021. Most folks expect a much later than usual opening due to the abundant snowpack. You can, however, rent rafts at the Raft & Bike rental in Curry village. are not allowed. Two great choices for a nice hike are the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead and Murphy Creek Trailhead, both located close to the lakeshore. 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). This alpine lake surrounded by mountains offers a spectacular view and a day's worth of fun for boating enthusiasts. The surrounding granite peaks and domes add a striking visual backdrop whether youre picnicking, swimming or strolling its postcard-perfect shoreline along the Tenaya Lake Trail. However, if you have time to spare and are on a flexible schedule renting kayaks in Merced might be an option. Be mindful of drive times and focus on one area of the park. enchanting alpine lake has drawn many To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. provides an unforgettable experience for This alpine lake surrounded by mountains offers a spectacular view and a days worth of fun for boating enthusiasts. Yosemite kayaking is also allowed on Lake Tenaya. 1 Adult Lake Tenaya offers calm waters and scenic views of the park. Yet youre kayaking in Yosemite. With Hawaiis countless stunning beaches, its tough to pick one with the most beautiful waters, but Waimanalo Beach in Oahu certainly ranks. Kayaking is a popular way to enjoy the calm waters of Tenaya Lake. 1 Child 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. 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). Ebbett's is north of Yosemite (but lower than the Tioga Pass, IIRC). Kayaking the Mouth of the Columbia River's Tidal Influences. Due to its geologic heavy hitters, water features and wildlife, photography in Yosemite Mariposa satisfies shutterbugs of all stripes. activity and tranquility that will both Yosemite does have a few first-come-first-serve areas but they change the rules just about every year, so do your research. He regularly leads workshops on paddling basics, techniques, and safety. Explore the rocky northeast shore of Tenaya Lake. Tenaya Lake - Tenaya Lake - Find info about paddling launch sites including directions, ammenities, & fees to plan your next paddling trip! 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 . Call today! 5. 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. Help the community if you have information to share! Tenaya Lake is a magnificent High Sierra lake surrounded by granite domes, lodgepole forests, and Yosemite's vast wilderness. A 2.5 hiking trail around the lake's perimeter provides superb views. PFDs and paddles are also available for $5.50. 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. If its early on a weekday, your chances of snagging a spot are decent. So if youre not planning on booking a guided tour (where often the device is included in the gear), you must bring one with you. 2023 Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau, Yosemite Itineraries: What to Do in Yosemite, Yosemite Climbing Association Museum & Gallery. Two picnic areas are available, one of them is wheelchair accessible Hiking is also a popular activity in the Tenaya Lake area. Good times! 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. . Kayaking on Merced River and Lake Tenaya If you have your own kayaks ready to go. This story does not necessarily represent the position of our parent company, IBM. Before leaving for your trip, be sure to check out the specific fishing rules concerning baits, hooks, and possession limits. The smooth and steady current will automatically guide your boat down the river, leaving you plenty of time to take in the sights. The Green River, UT. Fishing regulations for Yosemite National Park. Whether you choose a day trip on the Colorado River, a multiple day escape . Unfortunately there arent very many rental options. Enjoy discovering all the secluded bays, swimming holes, and jumping rocks, in complete peace and away from masses of tourists. a gorgeous setting is what you yearn for, 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. There might be plowing updates near the beginning of May. Surrounded by The tour will take you on whitewater sections of Merced River that are rated between the III and IV classes. The best months for kayaking on Tenaya Lake are July and August when the weather is warmest.. Tioga Pass Road passes along the lakes Here is the full price list and hourly rates for renting kayaks with Padyak Shak at Yosemite. The can be done in part or in full (2.5 mile loop/4 km) with minimum elevation gain and maximum views. Tenaya Lake is sandwiched by two nearby attractions that are easily explored during your one day in Yosemite high country. Though just over a mile long, its granite-encircled shores provide paddlers with flat water (beginners welcome!) Tenaya Lake - Day 1 The first stop of your Yosemite kayaking trip can be Tenaya Lake. Whether you are floating by canoe, kayak, raft, or inner tube, the scenery you'll enjoy along the valley floor is unprecedented. 3 Adults Most people put in along the Merced River at Stoneman Bridge (near Curry Village) and take out at Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, under the following conditions: This section of river is open to boating and rafting each day when the gage height at Pohono Bridge is below 7 feet at 8 am. For most people this would use up way too much vacation time to justify driving that far. If youre apt to swim and boating in colder water, youll find the best kayaking conditions (with lots of water) between April and June. 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 many options available, with even multiple-day organized trips. The guided tour lasts 3 days and will take you around all the best and most scenic rafting spots in Yosemite. 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This story does not necessarily represent the position of our parent company, IBM be the beautiful!