Tenaya Lake Trail, Yosemite: Hike, Swim & Trail Guide

About

Tenaya Lake sits along Tioga Road at 8,150 feet, between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows, and it's the easiest way to get real alpine scenery in the high country without any real climbing. Granite domes rise straight out of the water on three sides, and the lake's east-end beach and picnic areas are a favorite stop for anyone driving Tioga Road in summer.

The Trail

A full pedestrian loop now circles the lake, connecting the Sunrise Trailhead, the Murphy Creek parking area, and the east-end beach — the result of a Yosemite Conservancy project that added boardwalks and a bridge across the marshy north shore. Covered end to end, it runs about 2.5 miles with little to no elevation gain, an easy grade that suits families, casual walkers, or anyone breaking up a drive through the park's high country.

Swimming, Paddling, and Access

A sandy beach and day-use area sit at the lake's east end.
Swimming and non-motorized paddling (kayaks, canoes, paddleboards) are popular here on calm summer days.
Tioga Road, the only way in, is seasonal — typically open from late spring or early summer through October or November, depending on snowpack.

The water is glacier-fed and stays cold even in midsummer, so ease in rather than diving straight in. Hikers looking for more distance can continue past the loop on the Murphy Creek Trail toward Polly Dome Lakes or on the trail south toward Sunrise Lakes and Clouds Rest.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Tenaya Lake loop trail?

The pedestrian loop around the entire lake runs about 2.5 miles, with little to no elevation gain — most people finish it in an hour or two.

When can you access Tenaya Lake?

Only when Tioga Road is open to vehicles, which is typically from late spring or early summer through October or November, depending on snowpack.

Can you swim in Tenaya Lake?

Yes — the east-end beach is a popular swimming and paddling spot in summer, though the glacier-fed water stays cold even at the height of the season.

Are there longer hikes from Tenaya Lake?

Yes. The Murphy Creek Trail heads north toward Polly Dome Lakes, and another trail runs south toward Sunrise Lakes and Clouds Rest, both well beyond the easy lakeshore loop.