An Honest Tenaya Lodge Review (2026): Is It Worth Staying Here Near Yosemite?

If you’ve done some research on the best places to stay when visiting Yosemite National Park, you’ve probably run across Tenaya Lodge (also known as Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite or Tenaya at Yosemite). 🏨

Named after Chief Tenaya of the Ahwahneechee people, Tenaya Lodge is one of the top-rated places to stay outside of Yosemite. It is an award-winning, full-service, all-season mountain resort located just two miles from the southern entrance of the park within the Sierra National Forest.

The lodge offers a variety of accommodations, including traditional rooms and suites, two bedroom cabins, and private cottages.

Not only do you have easy access to Yosemite National Park, but you also have access to many fun on-site activities and amenities, such as a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, bike rentals, guided hikes, nightly s’mores, and so much more!

And to add another plus, it’s dog friendly. 🐶

Is Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite really worth it? This in-depth guide and honest Tenaya Lodge review breaks down everything you need to know before booking so you can decide if it’s worth the stay.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links on this page may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for supporting the blog! 🫶

What to Know Before Staying at Tenaya Lodge

Where is Tenaya Lodge Located?

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is located at 1122 Highway 41 in Fish Camp, California, sitting at an elevation of 5,288 feet in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

It’s conveniently located near the southern portion of Yosemite, including Mariposa Grove, Wawona, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Valley. And it’s only about 20 minutes from Oakhurst which is a small town with more restaurants and shops.

🚙 Distances from Tenaya Lodge to spots in Yosemite:

• Yosemite’s South Entrance – 3 miles, 8 minutes
• Mariposa Grove – 3.2 miles, 10 minutes
• Wawona – 8 miles, 18 minutes
• Glacier Point – 36 miles, 1 hour and 10 minutes
• Yosemite Valley (visitor center) – 36 miles, 1 hour and 10 minutes

✈️ Distances from international airports to Tenaya Lodge (depending on traffic):

• Fresno International Airport (FAT) – 60 miles, 1.5 hours
• San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) – 180 miles, 3.5 hours
• Oakland International Airport (OAK) – 190 miles, 3.5 hours
• Sacramento International Airport (SMF) – 200 miles, 3.5-4 hours
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – 208 miles, 3.5-4 hours
• Reno/Tahoe International Airport (RNO) – 270 miles, 5.5-6 hours
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – 280 miles, 5-6 hours

🚗 Renting a vehicle is the most common option to get to Yosemite – check out rentalcars.com or discovercars.com.

Tenaya Lodge Accommodations

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite has 352 guest accommodations with three main lodging options:

• Explorer Cabins at Tenaya (50 cabins)
• Cottages at Tenaya (53 cottages)
• Lodge at Tenaya (223 standard rooms and 26 suites)

Check-in at Tenaya Lodge starts at 4:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Tenaya Lodge Prices

Pricing at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite varies a lot depending on which accommodation you book and when you visit. Standard rooms in the main lodge are typically the most affordable option, especially during the off-season, while the cottages and Explorer Cabins come at a higher price point.

Rates can swing pretty dramatically throughout the year. The price for a stay in March will look very different compared to a stay in July. Prices tend to jump significantly during peak summer months and winter holidays.

In general, you can expect nightly rates to range anywhere from around $200 to $500+ per night, depending on the room type, time of year, and availability.

Tenaya Lodge does offer seasonal deals and special packages, including a popular New Year’s Eve package. You can also snag discounts if you’re a AAA member or senior, and there are discounts and free park entry available for veterans.

💰 Which Tenaya Lodge stay is right for you?

• On a budget: Book a standard lodge room, especially in the off-season
• Mid-range: Cottages offer extra space without cabin-level pricing
• Splurge: Explorer Cabins are ideal for families or groups who want a very comfortable and luxurious stay

💸 Extra fees! Tenaya charges a $30 resort fee per night, plus a $0.75 daily California Tourism Fee, which are added on at checkout.

Best Time to Stay at Tenaya Lodge

My husband and I have stayed at Tenaya Lodge one time in December, and it was absolutely beautiful. The lodge was decorated for the holidays, the weather was surprisingly pleasant, and we spent plenty of time outdoors both in Yosemite and at the resort. While some activities weren’t available since they’re seasonal, there was still plenty to do!

If you want access to all outdoor activities, summer is your best bet (with spring and fall being great too, depending on weather). Winter visits are perfect for cozy vibes, holiday decor (late November to early January), and snow-friendly fun.

If you want a more affordable stay, book dates in the off-season, but avoid the holidays.

Sustainability at Tenaya Lodge

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite takes sustainability seriously through its GreenPath® program, which focuses on protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and reducing the resort’s overall footprint.

🌿 Sustainability actions:

• GreenPath® stewardship program
• Optional Greener Stay (reduced housekeeping)
• EV charging stations
• Solar-powered Explorer Cabin (#41)
• Zero-waste practices (recycling, composting, reusable items)
• 95% water recapture with on-site, chlorine-free water treatment
• Energy-efficient LED lighting and Energy Star-rated equipment
• Sustainably sourced dining (fair-trade coffee, cage-free eggs, vegan options)
• Locally made, eco-friendly gift shop products
• Tree planting, Earth Day events, and local community partnerships
• Guided hikes that educate guests on Yosemite’s ecology

TL;DR Summary of My Tenaya Lodge Review

To make a long story short, yes, staying at Tenaya Lodge is definitely worth it! I personally thought there were lots of fun things to do on-site at the resort, the food was incredible, the staff was very nice, and our room was clean and cozy.

And since we booked in the off-season a little over a week before Christmas, the price was quite affordable. Also, there weren’t as many guests during the time we were there so the atmosphere was calm and quiet.

The location is nice since you’re not too far from Mariposa Grove, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Valley. We wanted to spend an entire day at the lodge to participate in all the activities and because of this I discovered that mountain biking is so fun. I want to get more into it! Also, ice skating was amazing.

The only two downsides, during our stay, were: 1) we didn’t realize there was a complementary hot chocolate bar until our last night there – it was already closed when we found out about it; and 2) the prices for the food at the on-site restaurants were a bit on the pricey side but the food was very good and the service was great.

👍 Pros to staying at Tenaya Lodge:

• Excellent location near Yosemite’s South Entrance
• Spacious, comfortable rooms with multiple accommodation options
• Clean and well-kept property
• Cozy, charming lodge atmosphere
• Friendly, helpful staff
• Tons of activities and amenities included
• Dog-friendly (with a Pampered Pet Package available)
• Great for families, couples, and friend groups

👎 Cons to staying at Tenaya Lodge:

• Expensive, especially during summer and holiday seasons
• Some activities are seasonal and not available year-round
• Spa services are an extra cost (would love to see a discounted spa package for multi-night stays)

Tenaya Lodge isn’t the cheapest option near Yosemite, but if you plan to take advantage of the activities, amenities, and location, it can absolutely be worth it.

🤩 Have I convinced you yet? Book your stay at Tenaya Lodge!

Accommodations at Tenaya Lodge

Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins

For a more private and secluded retreat, the Explorer Cabins at Tenaya Lodge offer spacious two-bedroom accommodations. With over 500 sq. ft. of living space, each cabin comes with a living room, covered porch, and a wet bar featuring a compact fridge, microwave, and 10-cup coffee maker. Guests can also enjoy exclusive access to the Explorer Clubhouse (currently under renovation until April 15, 2026 – see note below).

🏡 Explorer Cabin Options:

• Premium Explorer Cabin (1 King, 1 Queen): Enjoy creek, meadow, or pond views with a master bedroom balcony. Sleeps up to six.
• Premium Family Explorer Cabin: Perfect for families, includes a king bed in main room, bunk bed in the second room, living room balcony, and a tub/shower combo. Sleeps up to six.
• Deluxe Explorer Cabin (1 King, 1 Queen): Interior location with king bed in main room, queen bed in second room, living room balcony, and a large walk-in shower. Sleeps up to six.
• Accessible Explorer Cabin (2 Queens): ADA-compliant with widened doorways, roll-in shower, grab bars, and wheelchair-accessible layout. Sleeps up to six.
• Solar Power Cabin #41: Eco-friendly cabin powered by 12 solar panels. Sleeps up to six and offers a unique sustainable stay experience.

📺 Standard amenities in all Explorer Cabins:

• Living room with cozy fireplace and sleeper sofa
• Wet bar, microwave, 10-cup coffee maker, compact fridge with freezer
• Cable TV, Wi-Fi, safe, climate control, phone, iron & ironing board, blow dryer
• A pack & play or crib is available upon request for an additional $30
• Access to the Explorer Lounge (hours vary, check with front desk)

🔨 Explorer Clubhouse (renovations through April 15, 2026):

The Explorer Clubhouse, which is a special amenity for those staying in the Explorer Cabins, is undergoing renovations until April 15, 2026.

The renovations will include an expanded clubhouse, new restaurant and bar, and outdoor pool complex for an even better future stay.

While the Clubhouse is being updated, guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast at Parkside Deli and a bottle of wine upon arrival.

🍷 Other special amenities at the Explorer Cabins:

• Explorer Trail – A short ¼-mile path along Big Creek and Rainbow Pond which is perfect for family-friendly walks.
• Extra perks – Nightly wine hours, bocce ball court, communal firepits, and easy access to lodge amenities.

The Explorer Cabins strike a perfect balance of privacy and convenience, making them a great choice for families, groups, or anyone wanting a peaceful Yosemite getaway.

Tenaya Lodge Cottages

For a peaceful, private retreat close to Yosemite, the Cottages at Tenaya offer a quiet escape. Just a short walk from the main lodge, Cottage guests can enjoy all resort amenities, including Wi-Fi, pools, dining, and activities.

🏡 Cottage Room Options:

• Cottage Rooms (335 sq. ft.): Studio-style rooms with a fireplace and private patio or balcony. Choose one king bed (sleeps 2) or two queen beds (sleeps 4). ADA-compliant rooms are also available.
• Cottage Suites (490 sq. ft.): One-bedroom suites with a separate living room, fireplace, and private balcony. Most sleep up to four, with options for a sleeper sofa or floor mat. One suite has a king bed in the living room instead of a sleeper sofa.

📺 Standard amenities in all Cottages:

• Fireplace and private patio or balcony
• Work desk with computer data port
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Mini fridge and K-cup coffee maker
• Cable TV with movies on demand
• AM/FM clock radio & telephone
• In-room safe, iron & ironing board, hair dryer
• Individual climate control
• Rollaway bed, pack-and-play, or crib available ($30 fee)

✅ ADA Cottages include:

• All standard amenities
• Low-placed thermostat, towel hooks, and entry features
• Emergency strobe fire alarm
• Grab bars, ADA toilet, and wide bathroom doors
• Shower chair available upon request

The Cottages are perfect for guests who want a little more space, privacy, and forest views, while still being just minutes from the main lodge and resort activities.

Tenaya Lodge Rooms and Suites

Tenaya Lodge rooms are newly remodeled with a nature-inspired, modern design. Located in the heart of the resort, rooms offer quick access to restaurants, the deli, gift shop, activities, and more!

For a more spacious and elevated stay, Tenaya Lodge Suites offer private bedrooms, separate living areas, and balconies or patios with the same quick access to all the lodge’s restaurants, amenities, and activities.

🏨 Tenaya Lodge Room Options:

• Premium Rooms: King or two queens, upgraded bathrooms with granite countertops, rustic sliding doors, and forest views. Premium Patio options for direct outdoor access. Sleeps 2–4. ADA options available.
• Spa Room (1 King): 550 sq. ft. with king bed, sitting area, wet bar, private balcony/patio, jetted tub, and separate rain shower. Perfect for romantic escapes. Sleeps up to 4. ADA options available.
• Oversize Deluxe Room (2 Queen): 450 sq. ft. with two queens, sitting area, pull-out sofa, private balcony/patio. Ideal for families or small groups. Sleeps up to 4. ADA options available.
• Oversize Deluxe Room (1 King): 425 sq. ft., king bed, sitting area, pull-out sofa. Great for couples or solo travelers. Sleeps 2 (optional add-ons for young children).
• Deluxe Rooms: 350 sq. ft., one king or two queens, upgraded bathrooms, cozy seating. Sleeps 2–4. ADA options available.

My husband and I stayed in one of their premium two queen rooms and it was very nice! We didn’t spend much time in there because we were too busy participating in fun activities at the lodge or hiking in Yosemite.

I thought our room was clean and comfortable. The shower pressure was wonderful (that matters to me a lot). The only thing I didn’t like in our room was the carpeted floor! Other than that, we enjoyed our room. Maybe next time we can upgrade to one of their cottages or cabins. 🤗

🏨 Tenaya Lodge Suite Options:

• Luxury Suite (800 sq. ft.): King bedroom with balcony, living area with fireplace, sleeper sofa, wet bar, dining table for 8, double vanity, jetted tub, separate shower, dressing room. Sleeps 4. Perfect for families or celebrations.
• Deluxe Suite (650 sq. ft.): King bedroom, living area with sleeper sofa, dining table for 4, wet bar. Sleeps 4. Ideal for couples or small families.
• Contemporary Suite (850 sq. ft., adults only): King bedroom, spacious living area with gas fireplace, sectional sleeper sofa, large bathroom, private patio, adults-only level access. Sleeps up to 3 adults.
• Garden Suite (550 sq. ft., adults only): Semi-private king bedroom, living area with sectional sofa & fireplace, large bathroom, private garden/patio. Sleeps up to 3 adults.

📺 Standard amenities for rooms and suites:

• Work desk with computer data port
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Mini fridge and K-cup coffee maker (Keurig)
• Cable TV with movies on demand
• AM/FM clock radio & telephone
• In-room safe
• Iron and ironing board
• Hair dryer
• Individual climate control
• Rollaway bed, pack-and-play, or crib available ($30 fee applies)

✅ ADA rooms and suites include:

• Roll-in showers
• Grab bars
• Toilet risers
• Hearing-impaired phone

🤩 Book an epic trip to Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite!

Tenaya Lodge Restaurants

Tenaya Lodge offers a variety of dining options from casual grab-and-go meals to sit-down dinners. Menus emphasize locally sourced ingredients, with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

Jackalope’s Bar & Grill

This is the go-to spot for a delicious sit-down meal. Jackalope’s serves made-to-order burgers, sandwiches, specialty salads, and heart-healthy options, along with gluten-free and vegan dishes.

Open daily all year-round from 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM.

View their menu HERE.

Timberloft Pizzeria

After a day exploring Yosemite, Timberloft is the perfect spot to refuel. They have fresh pizzas, pastas, crisp salads, and cheesy breadsticks. Located near The Cottages, it’s especially popular with families.

Open seasonally during the high season and select holidays. Restaurant hours vary depending on time of year.

View their menu and schedule HERE.

Gold Rush BBQ

This is dinner and entertainment all in one. Gold Rush BBQ serves up classic barbecue favorites like pulled pork, BBQ chicken, bratwurst, burgers, corn on the cob, chili, and baked potatoes.

Evenings include live music, lawn games, fire pits, and s’mores, making it one of the most memorable dining experiences at Tenaya.

Open seasonally during the high season.

View their menu and schedule HERE.

Embers

Warm, inviting, and a bit more elevated, Embers is perfect for a sit-down dinner. The California-fresh menu features house-made dishes like beer-battered fish & chips, French onion soup, pan-seared scallops, and perfectly cooked steaks. It’s a great option for a relaxed date night or special meal, and all ages are welcome.

Currently open 5 PM – 10 PM from December 22, 2025 – January 3, 2026. 

Reservations are recommended due to limited space. You can book online HERE or call 559-683-6555.

Parkside Deli

Ideal for morning coffee or meals on the go, Parkside Deli serves Starbucks coffee, smoothies, breakfast items, picnic-ready meals, snacks, and sweet treats. It also highlights a variety of locally made California products, plus dog treats.

Open daily all year-round from 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM.

Bearfoot Bar

Located by the outdoor pool, Bearfoot Bar is a summer favorite. This full bar offers signature cocktails, local wines, craft beers, and casual food favorites. Watch sports, enjoy lunch under an umbrella, or sip a drink from a poolside cabana.

Open seasonally during the warmer months from 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM.

Things to Do at Tenaya Lodge

Tenaya Lodge offers an incredible variety of activities and add-on experiences. Many outdoor activities are seasonal and weather-dependent, but there’s always something going on, no matter the time of year!

🚵‍♀️ Tenaya Lodge activities included in your stay:

• Mountain biking – Head to Jackson Road for a casual ride, and don’t forget to ask the concierge about the hidden waterfall route. Great for adults and kids, novice or experienced! Rent bikes up to 4 hours.
• Archery lessons (ages 5+)
• 18-foot rock climbing wall
• Gold panning
• Pickleball
• Bocce ball at the Explorer Clubhouse
• Fun at 4 – Daily afternoon activities like crafts, trivia, scavenger hunts, and games.
• Nightly dive-in movies at the indoor pool at 6:30 PM
• Free telescope stargazing on the lodge terrace (spring, summer, fall)
• Guided nature walks – Easy 1.5-mile walk with a guide (snowshoes provided in winter).
• Winter activities (ice skating, snowshoeing, and sledding)
• Yoga classes (currently unavailable)

Tenaya Lodge also has specific events and activities throughout the year. Check their online calendar to see what’s happening!

🔦 Tenaya Lodge activities with an extra cost:

• E-bike rentals – Explore the national forest with less effort ($25/hour).
• Guided flashlight hike – Night hike through the forest. Snowshoes provided in winter if needed ($30/person).
• Guided stargazing experience – Led by astronomer Andy Skinner with telescopes and storytelling ($75/person).
• Glass blowing classes – Hands-on experience with expert instructors available May – November on select days ($95/person).

🥾 Hikes near Tenaya Lodge and in Yosemite

Tenaya Falls via Jackson Road: 5 miles roundtrip, easy (ask concierge for a trail map)

Corlieu Falls and Red Rock Falls via Lewis Creek Trail: 4 miles roundtrip, moderate (10 minutes south of Tenaya Lodge)

Goat Meadow Trailhead and Snowplay Area: Great family-friendly snowplay area in the winter and national forest hiking trails in the summer (10 minutes north of Tenaya Lodge)

Yosemite National Park: There is a long list of amazing hikes in Yosemite near Tenaya Lodge which includes Mariposa Grove, Wawona, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Valley. Check out my other blog posts that go into more details about the hiking trails in these areas of Yosemite! 👇

• Explore Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
• Chilnualna Falls Trail in Wawona
• Sentinel Dome and Taft Point at Glacier Point
• Panorama Trail and Illilouette Fall at Glacier Point
• 13 Best Hikes in Yosemite Valley You Can’t Miss
• 10 Must-Do Easy Hikes in Yosemite for All Skill Levels

🚌 Yosemite 360 Tours

Tenaya partners with Yosemite 360 Tours which guarantee park entry. Different tours include:

• Private summer tours
• Private guided Yosemite hikes
• Private Yosemite tours
• Winter tours
• Firefall tours
• Private Step-on guiding

Perfect if you want to skip the logistics and just enjoy the views. Learn more about these tours HERE.

🌠 Night Skies Package

This package is ideal for stargazers and night-sky lovers. Available March – December, the Night Skies Package includes:

• Two-night stay
• Special Tenaya blanket
• National Geographic Star Guidebook
• Guided flashlight hike
• Telescope viewing along Jackson Road

My husband and I stumbled upon the Night Skies Package by happy accident! We were planning to attend a different guided flashlight hike, but they had to cancel it. So instead, the concierge told us about the Night Skies Package, and since we had booked at least a 2-night stay, we were eligible for this package!

We had to pay a fee (I believe it was $42) and we got a blanket, a flashlight, the National Geographic Star book, and a guided flashlight tour to see the night sky through a telescope. It was very educational and so cool to see different constellations, planets, and the Milky Way!

🐕 Pet-friendly things to do at Tenaya Lodge:

Bringing your fur baby along for the ride? Here are some great activities you can do with your best friend! 👇

• Walk along Jackson Road to Tenaya Falls
• Dine on the patio at Jackalope’s Bar & Grill
• Ride the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad (dogs ride free!)
• Explore Yosemite Valley on dog-friendly trails, including Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, Cook’s Meadow Loop, paved section of Mirror Lake Trail, and Bridalveil Fall Trail from the main parking lot

🚂 Things to do near Tenaya Lodge (off-site):

Not only can you enjoy fun activities at Tenaya Lodge and in Yosemite National Park, but there is also so much to do in the surrounding area! Exciting things to do off-site includes:

• Bass Lake Boat Rentals – Rent a boat, jet skis, kayak, canoe, or paddleboards for a good time on Bass Lake (15% off with Tenaya room key).
• Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad – Take a family-friendly train ride through the Sierra National Forest and learn about the local history. There’s also food, gold panning, museum, and a toy store! It runs from April to November. Dogs are welcome and it’s wheelchair accessible.
• Yosemite Adventure Company – Rent off-road vehicles, such as Jeeps, Slingshots, Polaris RZRs, and Ranger UTVs. You can explore on your own or go on a guided tour. Open year-round.
• Yosemite Trails Horseback Adventures – Choose from one-, two-, and five-hour horseback rides that takes you through the beautiful Mariposa Grove in Yosemite. Tours are offered May to late fall.
• Golden Chain Theatre – Just 20 minutes away in Oakhurst, enjoy live plays and musicals at this theatre.

🤩 I know you’re itching to stay here now. Book your stay at Tenaya Lodge today!

Tenaya Lodge in Winter

Tenaya at Yosemite is an incredible place to stay year-round, but winter is pure magic. The lodge is decked out in festive holiday décor, and the entire property feels cozy, cheerful, and extra special during the season.

⛸️ Tenaya Lodge Winter Activities and Holiday Workshops

Tenaya Lodge offers a variety of fun activities during the winter months as well as special workshops during the holiday season.

1. Ice skating

This was my favorite winter activity during our stay! The outdoor ice skating rink was decorating nicely with twinkling lights and holiday decor all around.

The rink is opened seasonally from November to March. Ice skating is included for guests along with skate rentals. Non-guests can also use the rink but must pay a fee. Locals have a discounted rate.

Beside the outdoor rink, there are also a few fire pits where you can roast s’mores, warm up, and relax after ice skating.

2. Snowshoeing

Tenaya Lodge offers complimentary snowshoe rentals for guests who want to explore the Sierra National Forest (or Yosemite) in winter.

There are a few great trails within the national forest and Yosemite that are perfect for snowshoeing (if enough snow is on the ground). ⬇️

• Tenaya Nature Trail – Easy 1+ mile loop
• Jackson Road – Walk to a small waterfall (2.5 miles one-way)
• Goat Meadow – Gateway to longer backcountry routes and even Mariposa Grove (GPS device/map and route-finding skills recommended)
• Mariposa Grove – I highly recommending snowshoeing in Mariposa Grove among ancient giant sequoias
• Dewey Point – Great snowshoe route to incredible views

3. Sledding

With several open areas and slopes, you don’t have to leave the property to enjoy sledding!

Either bring your own sled or rent one from the lodge for $15 (half day) or $30 (full day).

You can also go sledding at the Goat Meadow Snow Play Area which is just 10 minutes north of Tenaya Lodge.

4. More winter adventures in Yosemite National Park

There is a plethora of fun winter activities to do in Yosemite, including:

• Downhill skiing or snowboarding at Badger Pass Ski Area
• Snowshoeing at Mariposa Grove, Badger Pass, or Crane Flat
• Winter hiking in Yosemite Valley
• Cross-country skiing on Glacier Point Road
• Ice skating at Curry Village
• Winter wilderness camping

☃️ READ THIS: 18 Best Winter Activities in Yosemite You Can’t Miss!

5. Get hands-on with festive activities for all ages:

• Gingerbread house decorating
• Ornament workshops
• Wreath-making
• Cookie decorating
• Snow globe workshops

These seasonal events are a fun way to create memories and take home a little holiday magic. ✨

🎄 Tenaya Lodge Holiday Cabins

🥞 Tenaya Lodge Holiday Dinners and Special Events

The holiday season at Tenaya is filled with festive food, music, and celebrations.

Christmas Dining

• Festive Christmas buffet in the Grand Ballroom (1–6 PM)
• Two Christmas dinner options featuring seasonal favorites
• Open to overnight guests and the public

New Year’s Eve

• NYE dinner specials at Jackalope’s Bar & Grill
• Grand New Year’s Eve Celebration in the Ballroom
• Family-friendly fun and midnight balloon drop
• À la carte menu available for a quieter celebration

Tenaya Lodge Amenities

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite isn’t just a place to sleep, it’s a place you go to have the best time of your life! From spa days to s’mores nights, there are a lot of incredible amenities to make your stay relaxing and fun.

💆‍♀️ Ascent Spa

Ascent Spa at Tenaya Lodge is a full-service spa that offers a relaxing escape with a wide range of services and amenities, including:

• Massages and facial treatments
• Steam rooms and saunas
• Vanity and shower facilities
• Relaxation lounge
• Fitness center is in the same area

Spa treatments are an additional cost and available for both guests and non-guests.

🏋️‍♀️ Fitness Center

Located beside the Ascent Spa, the fitness center is perfect for a quick workout while on vacation.

Wait, who would want to workout on their vacation?? Oh, I would. And I did. It was great. 😌

Equipment includes:

• Dumbbells
• Adjustable benches
• Cable machine and various strength machines
• Smith machine
• Treadmills, ellipticals, and recumbent bikes

💦 Pools and Hot Tubs

Tenaya Lodge has both indoor and outdoor pools along with hot tubs.

The 59-foot heated indoor pool is open year-round from 9 AM to 10 PM.

The 3 outdoor pools are open only in the summer months. There are also private cabanas, hot tubs, and the Bearfoot Bar which serves drinks and bar food. When it’s open, the hours are 9 AM to 9 PM.

🎮 Game Room

The game room, located near the indoor pool, is a great spot for both kids and adults to have some fun! It’s open from 8 AM to 10 PM and includes:

• Foosball
• Ping-pong table
• Vintage arcade games
• TV with game system
• Racing simulator
• Comfortable seating
• Toys for toddles

🍫 Evening S’mores

End the day around the fire pits with Tenaya’s build-your-own s’mores bar. My husband and I were surprised to see a complimentary s’mores bar. We were so elated! Or at least I was. I love sweets.

We grabbed the ingredients for the perfect s’mores, located in the lobby area, and found some fire pits at the front of the lodge.

Near the fire pits you will find very long marshmallow sticks. I burnt my marshmallow (because that’s how I like it), took a small piece of Andes thin mint chocolate, and pressed it all between two pieces of Graham crackers.

This was a highlight of our trip. 😋

🚗 Self-parking, Valet Parking, and On-site Shuttle

Tenaya Lodge offers both self-parking and valet parking. We had no issues parking ourselves and finding a spot near the front was no issue. We also went in the off season in between Thanksgiving and Christmas so there was hardly anyone there.

It seems like there are plenty of parking spots so even in the peak season, you should be able to find a parking spot on the propery without any problem.

The valet service does come with a price – $15 for day-use and $25 for overnight.

There is also an on-site shuttle service that can take you between the main lodge, Cottages, and Explorer Cabins.

🛍️ Tenaya General Store and Gift Shop

From 12 PM to 4 PM, stop by the Tenaya General Store and Gift Shop for souveniors or outdoorsy clothes! The store includes:

• Toiletries and travel essentials
• Yosemite and Tenaya Lodge souvenirs
• Logo apparel clothing
• Kids’ items, toys, and books

I didn’t end up buying anything, but I was very tempted! I saw a Cotopaxi fruit smoothie-colored fleece jacket with a Yosemite National Park logo on it. The price strayed me away but maybe I’ll treat myself next time!

⚡ Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Tenaya Lodge has electrical vehicle charging stations, including 8 Tesla Superchargers and two “Level 2” charging stations.

🐶 Pet-friendly Lodging (with pet care)

Tenaya Lodge makes bringing your pup on vacation easy! They offer dog sitting, walking, and kennel services.

Three-hour minimum and advance notice are required. Services depend on the availability of sitters. Also, these services do come with a fee. Learn more by checking out their pet-friendly lodging page.

👕 Laundry Facility

Tenaya Lodge offers a 24-hour laundry facility. Their website does not mention whether it is free or not, but other sources have reported that it is free.

We didn’t check out the laundry facility so I’m not sure! But either way, there is a laundry room in case you need to wash some clothes.

🍝 Room Service

Prefer a cozy night in? Tenaya offers a full room service menu, perfect for those who want something easy and convenient.

You’ll get the same high-quality food served from their on-site restaurants but without leaving your room!

👰 Meeting and Event Spaces

Planning something special? Tenaya Lodge has plenty of specific rooms for meetings and special events, such as weddings.

Why You Should Stay at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite

Tenaya Lodge is a great choice if you want a mix of Yosemite sightseeing, on-site amenities and activities, and comfort. It works best for travelers who don’t mind driving into the park and want more than just a place to sleep.

🙂‍↕️ Stay at Tenaya Lodge if you:

• Want to visit Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Mariposa Grove
• Like having on-site activities, dining, and spa options
• Want access to both Yosemite National Park and the Sierra National Forest
• Want a balance of adventure and comfort
• Are traveling with family and want family-friendly activities
• Don’t mind getting up early to beat Yosemite traffic

During our December 2025 stay, we spent one full day at Tenaya Lodge enjoying all the activities and amenities and the next day we spent most of the day hiking in Yosemite Valley. The combination of comfort, fun, and adventure was perfect for us! 🙌

🤩 Book a stay at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite!

🙂‍↔️ When Tenaya Lodge might not be the best fit:

• You plan to spend all of your time in Yosemite Valley
• You want quick access to Tioga Road or Hetch Hetchy
• You don’t want to deal with the drive time in Yosemite (except Mariposa Grove which is really close to the lodge)

3-Day Tenaya Lodge Itinerary

🥗 Day 1 at Tenaya Lodge:

• Check-in at 4 PM
• Eat dinner at Jackalope’s Bar and Grill
• Enjoy s’mores by the firepit

🏞️ Day 2 at Tenaya Lodge:

• Wake up early and drive to Yosemite Valley
• Watch sunrise at Tunnel View
• Hike Bridalveil Fall Trail
• Hike Cook’s Meadow and Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
  • Want a challenge and have extra time? Hike the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall
• Hike the Mirror Lake paved trail
• Drive to Glacier Point (if the road is open), and check out the views
• Hike to either Sentinel Dome or Taft Point for sunset
• Order room service at Tenaya Lodge for a cozy night in your room

✨ READ THIS: How to Spend One Day in Yosemite: A First Timer’s Guide

🚵‍♀️ Day 3 at Tenaya Lodge:

• Sleep in and take your time after a full, exciting day in Yosemite yesterday
• Eat breakfast from the Parkside Deli (their egg and cheese breakfast sandwiches are yummy!)
• Spend all day enjoying the incredible amenities and activities at Tenaya Lodge
• Eat dinner at either the Embers or Timberloft Pizzeria

My husband and I visited recently in December and we decided to spend one whole day at Tenaya Lodge. Here’s everything we did during this one day:

• Worked out in the gym (I know, we’re crazy)
• Ate breakfast from the Parkside Deli
• Went mountain biking along Jackson Road and hiked to Tenaya Falls
• Went on a scavenger hunt and found elves on the shelves
• Took archery lessons
• Went ice skating at their outdoor rink
• Went on a hiking and stargazing excursion
• Ended the day with pizza from the Parkside Deli

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Conclusion

I hope you found this Tenaya Lodge review helpful and informative. We personally had an incredible stay and would absolutely return!

It might become an annual “treat yo self” trip for us. It is a splurge, especially during peak season, but if you take advantage of the amenities and activities, it’s definitely worth it in my opinion.

If this post inspires you to book a stay at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite, I’d love to hear about it! Drop a comment below and share how your trip went. 😊

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