Bring your own boat. Boating and rafting are allowed when the gage height as measured at Pohono Bridge is below 7 feet at 8 am. Water temperature will be incredibly cold and will probably not reach 50 degrees. 5 There are a few restrictions to keep in mind while kayaking in Yosemite. Utah Lake is a 148 sq. Granite boulders surround the lake, where visitors can swim, kayak and boat. Would a wet/drysuit be necessary at this time of year, or would dressing in layers suffice? If its early on a weekday, your chances of snagging a spot are decent. More experienced boaters with appropriate equipment have additional opportunities along the Merced and Tuolumne Rivers. If needed, are there any places that rent wetsuits nearby? 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. Tenaya Lake - Tenaya Lake - Find info about paddling launch sites including directions, ammenities, & fees to plan your next paddling trip! activity and tranquility that will both 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. Unload your gear and carry it down to the Merced River on the left-hand side of the Stoneman Bridge. They have to begin the plowing and determine what sort of rockfall or road damage there is. In fact, Merced River is the most popular place to and go kayaking in Yosemite. The smooth and steady current will automatically guide your boat down the river, leaving you plenty of time to take in the sights. Swimming in rivers is not without hazards, including swift currents, cold water, and hazards within the river (e.g., trees). Slow down and spend the day at Tenaya Lake a beautiful and easy-to-get-to alpine lake cupped by granite domes. After kayaking all morning, you can grab lunch at the Tenaya Lake Picnic Area, then hit one of the few panoramic trails nearby. This will be your put-in butyou cant park here. Id say buckle up, but that wouldnt be possible, so brace yourself for some thrilling river rafting. Located in the high country of Tuolumne Meadows, among the (somewhat) less-visited parts of Yosemite, Tuolumne is my favorite area to explore. You can, however, rent rafts at the Raft & Bike rental in Curry village. You can kayak all along the Merced River from Stoneman Bridge in Curry Village down to Sentinel Point Beach. There are sandy beaches along the way to stop and take a swim or to stop for a picnic. Help the community if you have information to share! 5 Adults They have solo and double kayak rentals for 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours ( day) and 8 hours (all day). 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. Canoe Or Kayak In Utah. Very little elevation gain (lakes are notoriously level). http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tiogaopen.htm. ), or go kayaking or boating. You can kayak all along the Merced River from Stoneman Bridge in Curry Village down to Sentinel Point Beach. This alpine lake surrounded by mountains offers a spectacular view and a days worth of fun for boating enthusiasts. 4 Children Tenaya Lake is an alpine lake in Yosemite National Park, located between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. Due to its geologic heavy hitters, water features and wildlife, photography in Yosemite Mariposa satisfies shutterbugs of all stripes. Here is the full price list and hourly rates for renting kayaks with Padyak Shak at Yosemite. beauty. 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. To explore lodging options, things to do and places to eat, visit Yosemite.com, the #1 trip planning site for vacations to Yosemite National Park and historic Mariposa County. The lake is most favored by its proximity to easy access points. Kayaking on Merced River and Lake Tenaya If you have your own kayaks ready to go. 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. Ive spent so much time in this part of Yosemite that hanging out in the center of the lake is like being surrounded by old friends. 10, Adults This 1-day trip is perfect for boating beginners that wish to explore Yosemite in a fun and unusual way. For those who like big rocks but arent super fond of scaling them, visit the Yosemite Climbing Association Museum & Gallery in the charming Sierra Gold Rush town of Mariposa to get a feel for the rope. leisurely paddle, theres an abundance of Nothing beats clear blue waters when it comes to a relaxing vacation. 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. Utah Lake. Call today! 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. sparkling blue water and two-and-a-half Stretching through Yosemite National Park for almost 150 miles, the river is blessed with peaceful and serene waters. All lakes and reservoirs are open to fishing year-round. 2.5 The rapids can be pretty tricky for beginners, and in general, this experience can be pretty demanding. Tenaya Lake makes a strong case for baskets with a designated picnic area at its east end (parking/restrooms available) plus a view-packed shoreline where visitors can snack to their hearts delight. granite peaks on three sides, Tenaya Lakes 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. The water is crystal clear. However, apart from the luxury lodging, youll also find they rent kayaks, rafts, and even bikes. And if youre looking for more inspiration, why dont you check out my 20 favorite weekend getaways in the US? Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and within one mile upstream along any tributary (e.g., Rancheria Falls). Kayaking the Mouth of the Columbia River's Tidal Influences. Yosemite does have a few first-come-first-serve areas but they change the rules just about every year, so do your research. The parking lot has multiple restrooms and the lake is a 5 minute walk (not a hike) from the parking lot. 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. 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. When I explore a new lake, I usually spend most of my time near the coastline. Tenaya Lake is approximately 35 m deep. Tenaya Lake. 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. Snow-capped peaks surround Jenny Lake, which is one of the most popular spots within Grand Teton National Park. Photo credit: ericncindy24, No. 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). still one can see flawless reflections of 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. what it lacks in size, it makes up for in It's a mile (1.6 km) long and bordered on three sides by granite peaks and domes. Yosemite National Park is arguably one of the most beautiful places on earth but can you kayak it? Yosemite, CA 95389. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. You'll also have plenty of space for your kayaking equipment and all of the amenities you need to have a good time. Whether you choose a day trip on the Colorado River, a multiple day escape . 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. At the Padyak Shak, youll find solo kayaks, tandem kayaks, as well as equipment for stand-up paddleboards, and catamaran stand-up paddleboards. 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! On Tenaya Lake: Kayaking is popular on the calm Tenaya Lake. crowd factor is usually not as much of a Taking only 130 days to complete with nothing but hand tools and blast powder, Tioga Road spans the Sierra divide providing expansive vistas, geologic wonders and lush conifer forests with every turn. problem as you might experience at other . It is roughly 15 miles from the East gate on top of Tioga Pass or 50 miles / 1.5hr drive from Yosemite Valley. Its an ideal location for a picnic or a quick swim in the clear cold waters. We're first-time visitors, so didn't even think to check that road opening. 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. The Merced River does not "close" but the flow will be too high for you to enjoy an IK. Put-in and take-out slots are limited; check for availability. 5. No photos yet. Olmsted Point is a delightful place to stop for sunset, and view of the other side of Half Dome. Explore the rocky northeast shore of Tenaya Lake. 2 Children 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. The island is an easy day trip from San Juan, the U.S. territorys capital. Dont know where to start? The normal take-out point is about 3 miles downstream at Sentina Beach Picnic Area; no river access is available between these two points. PFDs and paddles are also available for $5.50. The perfectly waveless, calm water makes for great boating, canoeing and kayaking. Even amidst the natural splendor that is Yosemite, on my summer Saturday paddle, a family of five found it necessary to float a waterproof speaker in on a small raft and blast pop music from the center of the lake. With a long lovely shore, and a setting in the midst of granite cliffs, Tenaya Lake offers a serene getaway. Tenaya Lake. Here, too, each person on the craft must have a PFD available, and children under age 13 must wear them at all times. Its not uncommon to see people swimming and wading at the base of the waterfall. First and foremost, it is essential to obey the rules and warnings of the park rangers. Given the elevation, I know water will be cold- Does anyone have approximate temperatures for May? Flamenco Beach on the Puerto Rican island of Culebra is rated one of the best beaches in the world, according to discoverpuertorico.com. the majestic mountains. Photo: Kenny Karst. . Soft sand, blue waters and plenty of nearby amenities make this a popular swimming and sunbathing spot. Lake Tenaya Located in the Alpine region of Yosemite National Park is Lake Tenaya. Sanibel Island Shells Guide: Finding the Best Seashells, Copyright 2023 Scenic States | Privacy Policy, Stop Exploring Footers, Start Exploring States. But dont let the air temperature fool you, always check the water temperature before deciding what to wear. 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. As with anywhere else in Yosemite, the water is very cold. Hoffman, Tenaya Peak, Lembert Dome, and other giants. Canoeing, kayaking, raftering and tubing on this portion of the river under certain conditions: If you are using your own equipment, you can purchase a ticket for the shuttle bus ride back to Half Dome Village at the end of the trip for $5.00. My husband and I are planning to visit Yosemite the second week of May. Difficulty: Easy. Another good option for rentals is Curry Village Recreation Center, also located near Merced River. Because of the gorgeous views the lake brings. Enjoy discovering all the secluded bays, swimming holes, and jumping rocks, in complete peace and away from masses of tourists. Does Tenaya Lake have fish? Tenaya Lake is located Tenaya Lake is very scenic as it is mainly surrounded by hills, trees and domes. The Weather Companys primary journalistic mission is to report on breaking weather news, the environment and the importance of science to our lives. Children bald eagles and even bears are not uncommon. Its rimmed to the north by Tioga Pass Road, and to the South by a moderately-traveled hiking trail. The best months for kayaking on Tenaya Lake are July and August when the weather is warmest. 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. One of the great things about Tenaya Lake is that motorized boating isn't allowed. On the east shore of the lake is a very large beach where most people will enter the lake to go swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. 2 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. California.com, The The surface of Tenaya Lake has an elevation of 8,150 feet. Yosemite Valley Lodge Tour and Activity Desk, Half Dome Village Tour and Activities Kiosk, The Majestic Yosemite Hotel Concierge Desk. For other info about Yosemite, please check the Top Questions on the right (full TripAdvisor website) as well as the NPS.gov pages. 1 Night Does Tenaya Lake have a kayak/canoe Launch Point? Youll also receive fitness information before the trip to allow you to avoid beginners mistakes. You can also swim in the lake but the water is very cold. From mid-lake gaze northeast for the unmistakable Pywiack Dome, a 600 foot temple of granite rising from a dark ring of pine forest. Fishing at Yosemite is permitted year round and the regulations are the same that apply in all of California. For this reason, I only recommend this tour to boating experts, who are confident in their endurance and fitness. In 2022 Yosemite national park added a parking curb on much of the HWY 120 Corridor through the park. 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. The trip starts strong with some thrilling whitewater rafting at Cherry Creek and carries on the next days with more relaxing watering holes. This is one of the most exciting spots in Yosemite to raft and kayak, with its difficulty level rated at Class IV+. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Surrounded by Diana Falls & Swimming Hole. The Merced is at or near peak flow then, though, so no kayaking. 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. Theres a heightened respect for the sweep of scenery, an opportunity to ponder fascinating history, plus more time to try out all the exciting activities that destination has to offer. Tenaya Lake: Kayaking in October - See 366 traveler reviews, 366 candid photos, and great deals for Yosemite National Park, CA, at Tripadvisor. 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.. Two picnic areas are available (one of them is wheelchair accessible). The most popular facility for renting kayaks is the Padyak Shak at Merced River. On weekends, head straight for the National Forest campgrounds just east of the park. 1 I recommend calling ahead to avoid reaching the place and finding no kayaks available. 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. 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). wintertime. 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. 9 and unique views, not to mention the chance to drop a line for High Country trout. This story does not necessarily represent the position of our parent company, IBM. Under the stone bridges that span the river every so often, you'll encounter many trout-filled eddies in the clear water. The shuttle wont take your canoe or kayak, but it can get you back up theriver. miles of shoreline offer a short, leisurely paddle.Towering pines and steep granite Rules require that two capable paddlers be in each raft, and children under 50 lbs. And it just might be yours too. 3 Adults 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 . 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. The trail can be accessed from either the main . After a recreational activities, from kayaking, Tenaya Lake on a windless day, with water so The summer is surely the best time to visit the National Park if you also intend to camp and hike. Rafting on the Merced River in Yosemite Valley requires no experience, and rafts can be rented at any of the following locations: The fee for renting a raft (holding as many as four people) is $27.50 per person. 2 Bridge in Curry Village, a 600 foot temple of granite rising from a dark ring pine! 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