Kayaking Yosemite's Tenaya Lake
Kayak Yosemite and float through the heart of Tuolumne Meadows, surrounded by the steepest of granites
Am I Allowed to Kayak in Yosemite?
Yosemite National Park is arguably one of the most beautiful places on earth – but can you kayak it? Absolutely. You have two paddling options in the park: Tenaya Lake and the Merced River.
Let’s talk about Tenaya. Located in the high country of Tuolumne Meadows, among the (somewhat) less-visited parts of Yosemite, Tuolumne is my favorite area to explore.
If you’re a backpacker or climber, Tuolumne’s trails and crags might also be some of your favorite places. And it’s your first trip to Yosemite, they just might become the highlights of your trip. 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.
My Yosemite Kayak
As for me – I chose to paddle Tenaya for that new perspective. When I explore a new lake, I usually spend most of my time near the coastline. Tenaya is different. I’ve 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. It’s exactly where I want to be.
Tenaya Lake is encircled by Mt. Hoffman, Tenaya Peak, Lembert Dome, and other giants. It’s rimmed to the north by Tioga Pass Road, and to the South by a moderately-traveled hiking trail. Folks driving through the park who aren’t up for even a couple miles of hiking will often stop here, snap a few Instagram photos, then head on down the road to the Tuolumne Meadows Grill. You won’t have Tenaya to yourself. Kayaking and SUP are popular here, and you’ll spot every variety of inflatable watercraft.
The west end of this lake feels farthest from the road and has the calmest, most reflective waters. It’s shallowest here, and surprisingly warm. With Tenaya’s sandy, rocky bottom, it’s an idyllic spot to stop for a swim.
Despite the company you may find. 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.
Yet – you’re kayaking in Yosemite. As much as I usually favor quieter lakes farther away from roads, Tenaya is my exception. And it just might be yours too.
Recommendations for Kayaking Yosemite
Yosemite Kayak Rentals
Bring your own boat. Kayak and SUP rentals are not available in Yosemite.
Yosemite Camping
Yosemite has amazing campgrounds. Most spots fill up 6 months out…and I’m usually not that organized. Yosemite does have a few first-come-first-serve areas but they change the rules just about every year, so do your research. If it’s early on a weekday, your chances of snagging a spot are decent. On weekends, head straight for the National Forest campgrounds just east of the park.
Kayaking with Kids
Yosemite is really big. Bigger than the state of Rhode Island. Be mindful of drive times and focus on one area of the park. If you’ve 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.
When to Go
Late summer. Tioga Pass Road can open in May or July, depending on how big a winter we get. With Tenaya Lake’s 8,150 foot elevation, most folks prefer late season swims.
Build Your Yosemite Weekend
If you haven’t already explored this part of the park, I recommend combining your Tenaya paddle with a hike up Mt Hoffman, Lembert Dome, another nearby peak. (From Hoffman, you’ll look down on Tenaya Lake and Half Dome.)
What's Next?
The Merced River in Yosemite Valley is also open for paddling. Due to environmental concerns, the park concession is no longer renting tubes, so you’ll need a car shuttle to kayak Yosemite Valley. Alternatively, head east to explore the wild range of Central Sierra lakes. For more National Park paddling, visit the volcanic landscape of Lassen’s Butte Lake.
