Wawona Road Scenic Drive Yosemite National Park
Yosemite's iconic roadside viewpoint, revealing a breathtaking panorama of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Wawona Road Scenic Drive Yosemite National Park
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yosemite's iconic roadside viewpoint, revealing a breathtaking panorama of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.
"The tunnel into Yosemite is one of the most breathtaking scenic transitions on earth!!"
🎯 Arrive for Sunrise
Experience the magic with minimal crowds & stunning light. Parking is easier too!
📸 Patience for Parking
Parking can be tough; use the overflow lot if needed. Enjoy the view!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Reveal
Wawona Road (Highway 41)
Exit the tunnel to an unforgettable, sweeping panorama of Yosemite Valley's most famous landmarks.
El Capitan's Majesty
Western side of Tunnel View
Gaze upon the sheer granite face of El Capitan, a world-renowned climbing destination.
Bridalveil Fall's Grace
Eastern side of Tunnel View
Admire the delicate cascade of Bridalveil Fall, often misting the air with its spray.
Half Dome's Silhouette
Distant center of Tunnel View
Behold the iconic, rounded silhouette of Half Dome dominating the valley's eastern end.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything at Tunnel View
Capture the Iconic Yosemite Vista
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive for Sunrise
Experience the magic with minimal crowds & stunning light. Parking is easier too!
📸 Patience for Parking
Parking can be tough; use the overflow lot if needed. Enjoy the view!
✨ Visit Multiple Times
Catch the valley's changing light and moods. Each visit is unique!
🚶♀️ No Hike Required
The most iconic views are accessible right from the roadside. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive for Sunrise
Experience the magic with minimal crowds & stunning light. Parking is easier too!
📸 Patience for Parking
Parking can be tough; use the overflow lot if needed. Enjoy the view!
✨ Visit Multiple Times
Catch the valley's changing light and moods. Each visit is unique!
🚶♀️ No Hike Required
The most iconic views are accessible right from the roadside. +1
🌃 Night Sky Views
Good for spotting satellites, but not ideal for Milky Way photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tunnel View is universally praised as an iconic and breathtaking viewpoint, offering an unforgettable first glimpse of Yosemite Valley's grandeur. Visitors rave about the stunning panoramas of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall, especially during sunrise and sunset. While parking can be challenging during peak times, the overwhelming consensus is that it's a must-visit, with many recommending multiple visits to appreciate the changing light.
"Tunnel View is absolutely breathtaking and one of the most iconic viewpoints in Yosemite. It is well worth visiting early in the morning. I arrived just before sunrise and was pleasantly surprised by how peaceful and uncrowded it was. Watching the light slowly illuminate El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall was unforgettable. There is something magical about experiencing this view in the stillness of the morning before the crowds arrive. Plenty of parking was available at that time as well. I highly recommend making the early trip if you want a quiet and awe inspiring moment in the park."
Daniel Ryan
"Definitely a must see in Yosemite NP! This is the iconic view of Yosemite Valley, and you can drive right up to it and take a picture. You will want to come back to this spot multiple times so you can catch the view of the valley under different lighting conditions.
Parking is difficult to find, but a little bit of patience goes a long way. You can also park across the street in the overflow lot. The view is amazing, so take lots of pictures, but don't forget to sit and enjoy it as well. You can see El Capitan, Half Dome, and a couple of waterfalls in the valley. At night, a lot of people come here to take pictures of the night sky, but there are many other places in the park better suited for astrophotography. The large mountain to the south blocks most of the Milky Way, so it's not ideal. If you look down the valley at night, you can easily spot satellites in the night sky."
Ariz Himani
"Tunnel View is a must-visit spot in Yosemite, located just before entering the tunnel. Parking is available, and it offers a peaceful place to take in sweeping views of the valley, including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Horsetail Fall. Sunsets here are especially stunning. After enjoying the view, you can drive through the tunnel to continue your journey perfect for both sightseeing and photography."
Mahesh S R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tunnel View is located on Wawona Road (Highway 41) just before entering the Wawona Tunnel when driving north into Yosemite Valley. If coming from the south entrance, it's about 24 miles north on Highway 41. If you're already in Yosemite Valley, you'll drive south on Highway 41 for about 1.5 miles from the valley floor.
Yes, there is a parking area at Tunnel View. However, it can get very crowded, especially during peak season and at popular times like sunset. Be prepared for potential delays or use the overflow parking across the street if the main lot is full.
While there isn't a direct, maintained trail for walking from Tunnel View to the valley floor, some adventurous hikers have explored paths. However, for most visitors, it's recommended to drive or take a shuttle to access the valley.
The most common way to access Tunnel View is by car. It's a convenient stop along Wawona Road (Highway 41) and is easily reachable from both the south entrance of the park and Yosemite Valley.
Tunnel View is primarily accessed by private vehicles. While Yosemite Valley has a shuttle system, it does not typically extend to Tunnel View. Planning your visit with a car is generally recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tunnel View is a roadside viewpoint within Yosemite National Park. You will need a valid park entrance pass to enter Yosemite National Park.
There are no additional fees specifically for visiting Tunnel View itself. The standard Yosemite National Park entrance fee applies.
Tunnel View is accessible 24 hours a day, as it is an outdoor viewpoint along a public road. However, the best experience is during daylight hours for the views and safety.
Yes, Tunnel View is accessible year-round. However, road conditions can vary in winter due to snow, and Wawona Road may experience temporary closures. Always check current park conditions before your visit.
Tunnel View is one of the most photographed spots in Yosemite, offering a classic panorama. While great for general photography, it's not considered the best for astrophotography due to light obstruction.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
From Tunnel View, you can see the iconic trio of Yosemite Valley's most famous landmarks: El Capitan on the left, Bridalveil Fall on the right, and the majestic Half Dome in the distance. +1
Sunrise offers soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography. Sunset also provides stunning golden hour hues. +1
The main viewpoint itself is the primary photo spot. You can find various angles from the parking area and the short paved path.
Tunnel View is iconic because it was one of the first grand vistas visitors encountered after exiting the Wawona Tunnel, offering a breathtaking, comprehensive introduction to Yosemite Valley's grandeur. +1
Depending on the season and water flow, you might be able to see Horsetail Fall from Tunnel View, though it's more prominent from other viewpoints within the valley.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid the peak crowds and meltdowns that can come with long waits. The drive to Tunnel View itself, exiting the tunnel to reveal the valley, is often a memorable moment for kids. It's a perfect spot for a quick, impactful stop that everyone can enjoy without a strenuous effort.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
For those on a tight schedule, Tunnel View offers the most bang for your buck in terms of visual impact without requiring significant time commitment. It serves as a perfect orientation point, giving you a sense of the valley's layout before you explore further. Remember to check parking availability, as it can be a bottleneck during busy periods.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Yosemite Panorama
The sheer scale and composition of the view from Tunnel View have captivated visitors for generations. It's a place where you can truly grasp the immense power and artistry of nature. Many visitors find themselves returning multiple times throughout their trip to witness how the light and weather transform the scene, from the soft glow of sunrise to the dramatic shadows of sunset.
While the view is spectacular, it's important to be prepared for crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening can offer a more serene experience and better opportunities for photography without the hustle and bustle.
Photography Tips for Tunnel View
When composing your shots, experiment with different focal lengths. A wide-angle lens will capture the expansive panorama, while a telephoto lens can isolate details like the climbers on El Capitan or the flow of Bridalveil Fall. Remember to check your camera's white balance settings to accurately capture the natural colors of the granite and sky.
While Tunnel View is stunning, it's not the prime spot for astrophotography. The surrounding mountains can block the view of the Milky Way, and light pollution from nearby areas might be a factor. For stargazing, consider venturing to darker, more open areas within the park.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit