The cabins at Tenaya Lodge
First impressions as we arrived at Tenaya Lodge, just outside of Yosemite National Park on a freezing January night were positive “It’s a winter paradise Mum” exclaimed my six year old son as he ran towards the log fire awaiting us. The positive impressions continued as we were embraced by the warmth of the imposing lobby overseen by deer heads and ember beams. From the outset Tenaya Lodge declares itself as a family friendly resort. While I was immersed in the adult business of check-in little ones are invited at the “kids check-in” to colour in.
The accommodation at Tenaya Lodge is varied – we chose to opt for the romance of a cabin surrounded by fir trees – separate from the main resort. While I am sure this would have been the perfect option in summer, bundling three kids into snow clothes for a fifteen minute walk through the snow at every meal did test my patience. If returning I would instead choose to stay in one of Tenaya’s gorgeous and recently renovated lodge rooms or suites (preferably their luxury suite which provides extra room for snowy afternoon card-games.) Staying in the Lodge building during winter has the added benefit of easier access to board games in the foyer and the substantial indoor pool and jacuzzi that was open until midnight.
Having made the decision to travel to the USA for a family snow experience during our summer holidays we were desperate for snow and California delivered. Our visit co-incided with their biggest snow storm in years, for the six days we were at Tenaya snow fell so that our world was enveloped in a candy castle of white frosting. While the snow was stunning, activities in Yosemite National Park were limited due to road closures (the ski and snow play areas were closed and all tours cancelled). We were fortunate to have chosen Tenaya as our base as the resort’s facilities and activities designed to facilitate fun in the snow cater so well to families. Highlights included ice-skating on site, archery in the snow, snow shoeing and sledding on the supervised sled run. These were all available at an extra but not prohibitive cost.
Heavy snow falls at Tenaya Lodge
Archery at Tenaya Lodge
Sledding at Tenaya Lodge
I love family time but need a little time away from the kids. Open to children aged 5-12 the Sierra Adventure Club Day Camp is open during winter weekends and runs from 10am-1pm. Children enrolled in the program participate in winter activities such as archery or ice-skating. While my personal preference is for children’s clubs to be included in the cost from the outset the cost of $50 per child is reasonable particularly as it gives parents the opportunity to experience the Ascent Spa located on the property. Our own kids loved the kids evening camp (attending twice) Handed their own flashlight as they arrived they thrilled at night ice skating followed by dinner and board games with the other children.
Ice skating at Tenaya Lodge
Two restaurants are open at Tenaya Lodge during winter – Jackalopes Bar and Grill and Sierra Restaurant. I recommend the buffet breakfast at Sierra – although bad for my waistline as it offered vanilla french toast and monkey bread, it was a perfect start to days spent outside in the snow. Both restaurants source their menu items locally and preference Californian beer and wine.
While I loved our time at Tenaya Lodge I admit I experience a little envy towards those that stayed there during Christmas. The Christmas season at Tenaya includes activities like a tree lighting ceremony, children’s only dinner with Santa and gingerbread house workshops.
Overall Tenaya Lodge delivers a wonderful family winter wonderland experience. Highly recommended to all – now just to get back there and check it out in summer!
Disclaimer: Tenaya Lodge offered us free activities.
Sounds like a wonderful experience. I’m with you and would not have enjoyed bundling kids up each time I had to walk to the main lodge. There has been an abundance of snow out west this year, so at least you were able to make the most of that. A winter wonderland indeed!
Kirsten was a great experience even with the practicalities of getting my little water babies into snow gear at feeding time.
I haven’t been to Yosemite in the winter. It looks like a wonderland! My kids would absolutely love a stay at Tenaya Lodge. The archery, in particular, would be a must for my eldest. Appreciate the tips on cabin choices. We live in Canada so definitely familiar with the struggles of putting on winter gear.
Christina – somehow the archery in the snow was particularly cool. It was one of my son’s favourites.
Oh what a beautiful place! We love winter!
It does look like a winter wonderland! Betting the booking is a bit easier in the winter months too!
You’re right Kimberly – easy peasy to get a booking in winter.
When we visited Yosemite, we roughed it out in the Curry Village tent (Now Half-Dome Village), but in the winter, Tenaya Lodge is a place to stay at Yosemite!
Victoria I’d love to stay in Half-Dome Village in the summer.