Tenaya Lake Engagement Photos in Yosemite

M and H met up with me in Yosemite for their engagement photos, and I recommended Tenaya Lake as the perfect spot to begin. It’s an ideal location for outdoorsy couples who want privacy and epic scenery without the crowds. Located along Tioga Road, this alpine lake offers a mix of easy access, beautiful views, and plenty of space for exploring.

I always recommend visiting Tenaya Lake during the late spring and early summer when Tioga Pass is open, but not heavily congested with crowds yet. This road cuts through Yosemite’s High Country, giving you access to hidden spots that most park visitors don’t get to see. If you’re thinking about a Tenaya Lake engagement session here, let me guide you through everything you need to know.

A couple stands together on a sandy edge of Tenaya Lake, with trees and mountains in Yosemite in the background.

Where is Tenaya Lake?

Tenaya Lake is in the northern part of Yosemite National Park, along Tioga Road, and sits at an elevation of about 8,150 feet. It’s about 77 miles from Mariposa, making it a convenient day trip from nearby towns while still feeling remote. You’ll get to enjoy granite peaks, clear waters, and some of the best views in Yosemite.

One of the best things about Tenaya Lake is its easy access. Unlike many lakes in the Sierra Nevada, you don’t have to hike miles to reach it. You can pull up right to the shore, which makes it a great option for a Tenaya Lake engagement session that doesn’t require an intense hike.

A Bit of History Behind Tenaya Lake

Tenaya Lake was named after Chief Tenaya, the leader of the Ahwahneechee people who originally called Yosemite Valley home. The lake’s natural beauty has made it a popular spot since Yosemite first opened to visitors, and today it’s one of the must-see stops along Tioga Road.

Tioga Road itself is a historic feat, it began as the Great Sierra Wagon Road in 1883 by Chinese immigrants using nothing but hand tools and blast powder. It cuts through Yosemite’s high country, giving you a chance to see rugged landscapes, alpine forests, and open granite views. Because Tioga Road is only open from about late May to November, it’s a seasonal treat you don’t want to miss.

The couple shares an intimate moment on a large rock beside Tenaya Lake in Yosemite National Park.

The couple is reflected in water as they stand on the lake’s edge during their Tenaya Lake engagement in Yosemite.

Things to Do at Tenaya Lake

Swimming at Tenaya Lake

If you’re visiting Tenaya Lake on a warm day, or into cold water therapy, bring swimsuits. The water is snowmelt-fed, so it’s definitely refreshing (okay, more like cold!), but it’s great for a quick dip. Since it’s high elevation, the sun can be intense, so don’t forget eco-friendly sunscreen.

Hiking the Tenaya Lake Trail

Tenaya Lake has a beautiful shoreline trail that’s perfect for a walk. It’s a 2.5-mile loop with minimal elevation gain, which makes it easy for just about anyone. The views around the lake are unbeatable, with the granite domes and clear water creating a perfect backdrop for photos. I love letting couples go for a leisure walk during their Tenaya Lake engagement session to find a great spot for photos.

Kayaking or Paddleboarding

Tenaya Lake is over a mile long, giving you plenty of room to explore by kayak or paddleboard. The water is flat and calm, perfect for beginners or those looking to enjoy a peaceful paddle. If you don’t have your own gear, some nearby rental shops can help you out.

Fishing for High Country Trout

For anyone interested in fishing, Tenaya Lake is home to trout, making it a popular spot for anglers. Fishing here gives you another way to enjoy the High Country and experience Yosemite’s more relaxed side.

Rock Climbing at Tenaya Lake

If rock climbing is your thing, the granite walls around Tenaya Lake are legendary. Spots like Stately Pleasure Dome and Tenaya Peak offer world-class climbing routes. Even if you’re not a climber, it’s fun to watch the pros tackle these impressive walls.

The couple holds hands as they walk along the edge of Tenaya Lake with the mountains in the background.

Plan Your Tenaya Lake Engagement with a Pro

An engagement session at Tenaya Lake offers the chance to explore one of Yosemite’s most scenic spots. I’ll help you make the most of this location, from finding the best angles to capturing natural moments that reflect who you are as a couple. If you’re planning an engagement or elopement in Yosemite, consider Tenaya Lake, especially if you’re looking for a mix of beauty and adventure.

Check out my Yosemite Elopement Photography page for more tips on getting the best out of your day in the park, or browse my Cook’s Meadow Session blog to see another incredible spot for engagement photos.

For more information on Tioga Pass’s opening and closing dates, check out Yosemite N ational Park’s Tioga Road Status, or learn about Leave No Trace guidelines to keep Yosemite beautiful for everyone.

Ready to plan your engagement photos at Tenaya Lake? Contact me to lock in your date and let’s make some memories in the High Country!

A couple sits on a large rock by Tenaya Lake in Yosemite, gazing at the water and surrounding mountains.

The couple walks along the shore of Tenaya Lake in Yosemite National Park, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Holding hands, the couple strolls along the edge of Tenaya Lake with Yosemite’s rocky peaks in the background.

The man wraps his arms around the woman from behind as they smile, with trees visible in the background at Yosemite.

The man leans in to kiss the woman on the cheek while holding her in a gentle embrace near Tenaya Lake.

The couple stands close together, with the woman leaning back against the man’s chest, both smiling in a forested area.

The man rests his forehead on the woman's shoulder, sharing a quiet moment together with the mountains of Yosemite behind them.

The couple sits close on a large rock, looking content and happy, with the rocky peaks of Yosemite in the distance.

The man kisses the woman on her forehead as they sit together by Tenaya Lake, framed by Yosemite's iconic landscape.

A couple walks hand in hand along Tenaya Lake in Yosemite, facing the mountains in the distance.

A couple stands by the lake in Yosemite, facing away while holding hands.

The couple holds each other while standing on the shore of Tenaya Lake in Yosemite National Park.

Reflected in a shallow puddle, a couple shares a moment together at Tenaya Lake in Yosemite National Park.

A couple embraces by Tenaya Lake in Yosemite with mountains in the background.

The couple stands near Tenaya Lake in Yosemite, holding each other with the lake and mountains behind them.

A couple stands close together among trees at Yosemite National Park during their Tenaya Lake engagement.

A couple holds hands and looks in opposite directions near a lake in Yosemite National Park, surrounded by trees and mountains.

Here's to co-creating an unforgettable elopement experience.

I’m Karen, a Southern California Elopement Photographer who empowers couples to create memories that will last a lifetime. I am dedicated to providing the tools you need to create an unforgettable experience.

I help couples by providing personalized location lists, planning resources, vendor recommendations, permits, timeline-curation, and much more to curate elopement days that will be cherished forever.

Your Southern California Elopement Photographer, planning expert, and adventure pal.

I'm here to empower you to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Tenaya Lake Engagement Photos in Yosemite

Where is Tenaya Lake?

A Bit of History Behind Tenaya Lake