Length: Minimal
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Route Type: Overlook
Difficulty: Easy
Tunnel View, in Yosemite National Park, offers one of the most famous views of the Yosemite Valley. From this overlook, you will be able to see El Capitan, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rocks, and Bridalveil Fall. (NPS) It is an incredible sunset location and well worth a visit.
Accessing Tunnel View in Yosemite National Park
Starting Location: Tunnel View Parking Lot, Wawona, CA
GPS (DD): 37.715644, -119.677305
Tunnel View has two small parking lots and is located off of Wawona Road (Highway 41) at the entrance to the east end of the Wawona Tunnel. If you are entering Yosemite from the west via El Portal Road, Take El Portal Road into the park, continue on Southside Drive, and then turn right onto Wawona Road. Tunnel View will be on your right, right before you enter the Wawona Tunnel.
You can also access the Tunnel View Overlook from the south entrance of Yosemite National Park. You will pass by Mariposa Grove (which I highly recommend visiting) and then drive about 40 minutes north on Wawona Road. Once you pass through the Wawona Tunnel, Tunnel View will be on your left.
The viewing area is wheelchair accessible. As it is a popular location, expect large crowds and tour buses throughout the day. I recommended going early in the morning or later in the evening before sunset. If you want to take a sunset photograph, be sure to arrive a little bit early to secure your spot. Although the Tunnel View Overlook is open year round, you will want to check the main park website for current conditions and possible closures due to snow or wildfires.
Tunnel View Photography and Hiking Tips
I love the Yosemite Tunnel View Overlook! When we lived in California, it was one of my top five favorite locations for taking new visitor’s to Yosemite National Park. It is super easy to access and the vista is stunning.
I’ve even gone there late at night for some astrophotography, however, I forgot to check the lunar calendar and was dealing with a full moon when I got there, so I had to abandon my photography session. Lesson learned. I’ve since gone back during a new moon, but found that my favorite location in Yosemite for astrophotography was at Glacier Point.
I personally recommend photographing Tunnel View at sunset or in the early morning blue hour light just before sunrise. Be aware that at sunset, just like at Valley View, a deep shadow will begin to cover El Capitan as it sets (see above photo). Sunrise is also beautiful, but because of the direction of the rising sun, you will get hazy conditions shortly after sunrise, so plan accordingly.
If you want to do some hiking, the Ponoho Trailhead is across the street in the other parking lot. This is a less maintained trail, however, it will take you to Artist Point, Inspiration Point, and if you feel like hiking 13 miles, Glacier Point. Artist Point and Inspiration Point both provide a more elevated view of Tunnel View. Be aware that overgrown and downed trees may be an issue. (Hiking Guy) If you want to hike the Ponoho Trail, Check out this virtual guide to get an idea of what it will look like.
Weather at Tunnel View
Yosemite National Park is an ever shifting landscape of nature at its finest. It is my happy place and brings so much peace to my soul. I have been there in all weather conditions as well as when the red glow of distant wildfires shone with a hazy hue in the distance. Snow, rain, and lightning can strike at any time, so it’s important to be prepared and to check the weather forecast ahead of time.
Best Time of Year to See Tunnel View in Yosemite National Park
If you want to see Bridalveil Fall at its fullest, I would recommend coming in the early spring, probably sometime around April or May (see above photo). If you don’t mind a lesser display of water, the fall provides beautiful colors and scenery. Winter is less crowded in Yosemite and brings a beauty all its own.
Yosemite is also beautiful in the summer time, but the crowds can be terrible. It once took me three hours just to drive the complete Valley circuit. The best advice I can give is to arrive early or arrive late. We went once seeking an on-demand campground and got lucky enough to get one. This allowed us to walk to many of our locations from our campsite. You can also take a shuttle bus system during the busier months to help navigate the traffic. Be aware that most waterfalls will be at their lowest and possibly non-existent in the summer time (see above photo).
Find Your Favorite Location
No matter where you go in Yosemite National Park, be sure to take your time and find your favorite location along the way. If you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife! Don’t forget to add detailed macro shots, change your perspective, and most importantly have fun.
Before making your trip, consider checking the official Yosemite National Park website or contacting the park’s visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, accessibility, and any recent changes. As with any visit to a national park, it’s important to follow park regulations, practice “Leave No Trace” principles, and prioritize safety while exploring this beautiful area. Best of luck shooting at Tunnel View!
Happy Travels!
Juventa, Co-Owner, National Park Photographer
Want to learn more about Yosemite National Park? Check out these maps, guides & books:
- Yosemite National Park Map (National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map)
- Yosemite: The Complete Guide: Yosemite National Park (Color Travel Guide)
- Lonely Planet Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks 6 (National Parks Guide)
- The Complete Guidebook to Yosemite National Park
- Historic Yosemite National Park: The Stories Behind One of America’s Great Treasures
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