Located in Fish Camp near Yosemite, the Summerdale Hike at Tenaya Lodge is a solid option if you want something short and accessible with your dog. The trail starts right from the Tenaya Lodge parking lot—no separate trailhead to hunt down. You’ll head down the stairs toward the Summerdale BBQ area, then cross past the horseshoe pits and an old climbing wall as you make your way into the forest.
The hike itself is straightforward and relatively flat. You’ll walk about 100 yards before reaching a creek, which is usually the turnaround point for most people. The area around the creek is peaceful, with big trees and the sound of water. If you want to extend your walk slightly, you can follow the creek to the left for a bit before heading back up to rejoin the original trail.
The whole thing takes maybe 30 to 45 minutes depending on how long you linger by the water. It’s the kind of hike that works well if you’re staying at Tenaya Lodge and want to get your dog some exercise without committing to something lengthy, or if you’re passing through Fish Camp and want a quick break from the car. The trail doesn’t have any steep elevation gain, so it’s manageable even for older dogs or those not used to serious hiking.
Dogs are welcome here, which Tenaya Lodge makes clear. The trail itself is pretty well-maintained, though it can get muddy near the creek depending on recent weather. There’s no water fountain at the trailhead, so bring a collapsible bowl if your dog will want a drink from the creek.





