Tenaya Lake

If you are looking for an activity which would include a beautiful drive and a full day, don't miss Tenaya Lake, in the north of the park (road is closed in winter). It's perfect for having a picnic at the beach. It's about a 2-hour drive from Wawona, passing through Yosemite Valley, then up to Tioga Pass Rd, which is the highest highway in California. The drive includes some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. Once you get to the lake, you'll find two main beach areas,one on the far, eastern end of the lake and another one on the western end. The latter is usually less crowded and has the more spectacular views.