The Serene Beauty of Tenaya Lake
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tenaya Lake, a serene glacial lake nestled in Yosemite National Park, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, Tenaya Lake offers stunning vistas, crystal-clear waters, and a serene atmosphere, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and travelers alike. This glacial lake is surrounded by majestic granite peaks and lush forests, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and photography. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Tenaya Lake promises an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors.
A brief summary to Tenaya Lake
- Tioga Rd, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, California, 95389, US
- +1209-372-0200
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake's edge, as there are plenty of scenic spots.
- Bring layers, as temperatures can fluctuate rapidly in the mountains.
- Check the weather and park conditions before your visit, especially during winter months.
Getting There
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Hiking
From Yosemite Village, start at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. Head northeast on Village Drive until you reach Southside Drive. Turn left onto Southside Drive and continue until you reach the trailhead for the Mist Trail. This trail is part of the larger network of trails in Yosemite National Park and will lead you toward Tioga Road. Follow the signs for the Tioga Road Trail. After a strenuous hike of approximately 10 miles, you will arrive at Tioga Road. From there, head east on Tioga Road for about 2 miles until you see signs for Tenaya Lake. The hike will take several hours, so be prepared with water and snacks.
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Biking
Start from the Yosemite Village area and head towards the Yosemite Valley Lodge. From there, take the bike path towards the south until you reach Southside Drive. Continue to follow Southside Drive until you reach the intersection with Tioga Road. Turn left onto Tioga Road and bike east for approximately 6 miles. You will find Tenaya Lake on your right. Make sure your bike is well-maintained and bring plenty of hydration, as this route can be quite strenuous.
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Public Transportation (Shuttle)
While there is no direct shuttle to Tenaya Lake from Yosemite Village, you can take the YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) shuttle. From Yosemite Village, walk to the nearest YARTS stop at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. Board the YARTS bus heading towards Tuolumne Meadows. The ride will take about an hour. Get off at the stop for Tioga Road and walk east for approximately 0.5 miles to reach Tenaya Lake. Check the YARTS schedule ahead of time to ensure you catch the bus at the correct times.
Discover more about Tenaya Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Ahwahnee
13.7 km
Experience luxury and nature at The Ahwahnee, an iconic hotel in Yosemite Valley, perfect for your outdoor adventures and serene getaways.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
14.1 km
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Curry Village
14.2 km
Discover the enchanting Curry Village, a perfect blend of rustic lodging and stunning natural beauty in Yosemite Valley, ideal for adventurers and nature lovers.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
14.3 km
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Yosemite National Park at the Yosemite Wilderness Center, your gateway to adventure and exploration in nature's masterpiece.
Housekeeping Camp
14.4 km
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Yosemite Cemetery
14.4 km
Discover the serene Yosemite Cemetery, a historic site honoring early inhabitants of Yosemite National Park amidst stunning natural beauty.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
15.4 km
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Columbia Rock
15.5 km
Explore Columbia Rock in Yosemite National Park for stunning views of majestic waterfalls and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for every hiking enthusiast.
Washburn Point
15.7 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas at Washburn Point, where stunning views of Yosemite Valley await in this tranquil natural setting.
Yosemite Falls Trailhead
15.8 km
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Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
16.0 km
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Sentinel Dome
16.2 km
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Four Mile Trailhead
16.4 km
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Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
16.5 km
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El Capitan Picnic Area
18.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Olmsted Point
3.1 km
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Yosemite National Park
7.4 km
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Clouds Rest
7.6 km
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Parsons Memorial Lodge
9.9 km
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Tuolumne Meadows
10.2 km
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Half Dome Trailhead
10.6 km
Experience the thrill of hiking the iconic Half Dome Trailhead in Yosemite National Park, where adventure and breathtaking views await every trekker.
Sub dome
11.1 km
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Lembert Dome
11.4 km
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Half Dome
11.4 km
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Mirror Lake
12.1 km
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Little Yosemite Valley
13.1 km
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Mirror Lake Trail
13.2 km
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Nevada Fall
13.5 km
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Mist Trail
13.6 km
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Vernal Falls
13.7 km
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Essential places to dine
The Ahwahnee Bar
13.6 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
13.7 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
14.2 km
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Curry Village Pizza Deck
14.2 km
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Seven Tents Pavilion
14.2 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
14.2 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
The Loft at Degnan's
14.2 km
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Village Grill
14.3 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Mountain Room
15.4 km
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Yosemite Lodge Food Court
15.5 km
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White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
16.8 km
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The Skiers Grill
25.8 km
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The River Restaurant & Lounge
31.6 km
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The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
36.7 km
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Wawona Hotel Dining Room
37.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tuolumne Meadows Store
10.5 km
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The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
13.6 km
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The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
13.7 km
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Mountain Shop at Curry Village
14.1 km
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Curry Village Gift and Grocery
14.2 km
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Curry Village Coffee Corner
14.2 km
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Degnan's Deli
14.2 km
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Village Store
14.3 km
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Yosemite Visitor Center
14.3 km
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Housekeeping Camp Store
14.4 km
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Yosemite Village Parking
14.5 km
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Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
15.1 km
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Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
15.4 km
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Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
15.4 km
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Starbucks Yosemite
15.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 1899
14.2 km
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The Mountain Room Lounge
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Dry Creek Bar
42.5 km
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Tusks Bar
42.7 km
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Steeps Bar
43.6 km
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Basin Bar
44.7 km
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Grizzly Bar
45.7 km
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Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
46.7 km
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Clocktower Cellar
46.9 km
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Mammoth Brewing Company
47.0 km
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Salsa's
47.3 km
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Liberty Sports Bar and Grill
47.8 km
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Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
47.9 km
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The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
48.0 km
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Distant Brewing
48.8 km
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