About This Route
Tenaya Lake, a stunning alpine lake at 8,150 feet in Yosemite's Tioga Pass area, is perfect for flatwater canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding. Paddle the 1.5-mile length amid Cathedral Peak views, with easy shore access from the parking lot. NPS permits non-motorized craft from June to October when ice melts; no rentals on-site, so bring your own Old Town canoe. Winds pick up afternoons, creating chop, and the 45-55°F water demands caution. This Leave No Trace showcase spot sees heavy day-use traffic.
Safety Considerations
Altitude sickness hits unprepared visitors; acclimate first and hydrate. Sudden squalls capsize open canoes; hug the shore. Rocky entries risk sprains; launch carefully. Bear bins are available; store food properly. Blue-green algae blooms occasionally close the lake, per NPS advisories. No swimming advised due to cold. Use polarized sunglasses to spot submerged logs.
Essential Gear
Coast Guard-approved PFDs (Astral), anchor, paddle float, dry box, and bear spray. Pack layers for 40°F mornings.