Tunnel View

Scenic spot · Mariposa County

Tunnel View

Scenic spot · Mariposa County

1

Wawona Rd, California 95389

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Highlights

This must-stop roadside overlook near Wawona Tunnel offers breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, featuring iconic sights like El Capitan and Half Dome.  

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Wawona Rd, California 95389 Get directions

nps.gov

Information

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Wawona Rd, California 95389 Get directions

+1 209 372 1000
nps.gov

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance
crowd family friendly

Last updated

Jul 11, 2025

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"A scenic overlook just outside the Wawona Tunnel on State Route 41, featuring views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall." - Travel + Leisure Editors

12 Most Scenic Overlooks in U.S. National Parks
View Postcard for Tunnel View

Ricardo Molina

Google
Tunnel View offers one of the most stunning and beautiful views in the entire park. It’s an iconic spot that you definitely shouldn’t miss. In the morning, it’s easier to find parking and there are fewer people, so you can enjoy the scenery peacefully and take photos without crowds. As the day goes on, more visitors arrive. I recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset, as the lighting during these times makes the view even more breathtaking.

Chris Willett

Google
Breathtaking view of Yosemite Valley. Parking can be a little chaotic mid-day, but is pretty open early morning and in the evening. If you have the time, I would recommend visiting morning, mid-day, and evening as each paints a different picture with the varying light.

James M

Google
This is one of the most iconic views in Yosemite National Park. It can get extremely crowded depending on which day you come, what the weather is and what time of day it is. I've been here in absolutely every weather possible. If you're here during weather like the attached pictures, you'll probably have the place to yourself though most of the view will be fogged out. I came this day since it was right at the forecast snow level and I wanted to see the snowfall as the cliffs were clouded out. I've been here in every weather and wanted to see the view fogged over, since it's a different feeling looking out into a sea of fog. If you come on a weekend at sunset when the weather is clearer, it's going to be significantly more crowded and parking can get hard. Either way, it's a beautiful spot with beautiful views of El Capitan rising up on the left and Cathedral Rocks rising up on the right as Bridalveil Fall flows over the cliffs. Day or night, the views here are incredible. It's definitely a spot to stop at if you visit Yosemite, especially if you only have one day here. Tunnel View and Valley View down below on Northside Drive are easily two of my favorite views in the park, and both are must see viewpoints. There's a really cool bronze sculpture here of the valley, which you can probably tell by my attached photos I'm rather fascinated with. It's definitely cool to spend some time looking at it and comparing it against the actual view you see just behind it.

J.

Google
The view is great. But I do not understand why it is so popular. I mean it is not the best view you can access via car. Why people always say “if you can only visit one place in YP, it is tunnel view”? I think glacier point beat it by quite a lot.

ray donovan

Google
Absolutely breathtaking — a must-see view! Yosemite Valley View left me speechless. Even with clouds rolling over the mountains, the scenery was dramatic and unforgettable. The towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and lush trees create a perfect postcard moment. It’s an incredible spot to pause and soak in nature’s beauty — rain or shine. Parking was easy and the view is just a short walk from the lot, making it very accessible. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the tenth, this place has a magical way of making you feel connected to something greater. Highly recommend stopping here if you’re exploring Yosemite!

Ana Lopez

Google
While visiting Tunnel View in Yosemite, we had the unexpected pleasure of seeing a man painting the iconic landscape. It was such a powerful and inspiring sight—like stepping into a scene from early American art. Watching him capture the beauty of Yosemite with brush and canvas added a timeless, almost poetic touch to the moment. Truly unforgettable.

Thai Huynh

Google
This view point is breath taking beautiful. Driving out of the tunnel and you feel like you are lost into a fiary world. Love from Texas

Kelly Bache

Google
A breathtaking view! You must visit! Parking fills early so get there early. You can take the shuttle around to different areas after you find a spot. Just simply go there.

Gabriela M.

Yelp
The Tunnel View should be renamed to amazing view! In my opinion, the most magical time to see this beautiful view is during winter time. This is a popular stop with limited parking. This is the next stop after Glacier Point :)

Torri M.

Yelp
What is there to say... it is spectacular! What a view. I highly recommend not missing it... no matter how many times you see it or what time of year you go. It is always amazing. There is just something about the view just as you exit the tunnel ... it just hits different. Parking can be a bit of a challenge. I recommend to everyone to only visit on weekdays and never during peak vacation times. I usually park in a pull over spot below the lookout spot and walk up the hill so I do not have to fight for a parking spot. I mean this view ... it is just the perfect way to start out any visit to Yosemite.

Stevo O.

Yelp
This is the must visit location for a great photo of Yosemite. Of course half-dome is an obvious photo opportunity, but the surroundings are also unique and changes throughout the day or time of year. I particularly enjoyed the waterfall that my wife missed, but accidentally caught when she caught a photo of half-dome. Be aware that it's possible to park on either side east of the tunnel and there is a pedestrian walkway for cars to stop. It's almost impossible to take a bad photograph at this location, which seems to be a popular spot for motorcyclists too. Parking may be difficult during busy days, but overall, the stop may be only 15 to 20 minutes.

Jeff H.

Yelp
Tunnel View will take your breathe away. It is a must stop vista point to take a great photo looking down Yosemite Valley. The best time to come by will be sunset as the sun will be behind you. It is awesome to get a view like this without having to bike or hike for hours from the valley.

John D.

Yelp
Tunnel Cloud The Tunnel View is quite possibly the most iconic National Parks image thanks to one Mr Ansel Adams. If there's one place at Yosemite to get your touristy spirit on then this be it. The Good: *Plenty of parking. We visited this spot twice and never had an issue of finding parking. Even if it's full I'd imagine you can find a parking spot pretty quickly as most people just stop, snap a few pics and then bounce. There's no trails or anything else to keep folks here longer than they need to be. *View really is amazing and needs to be seen at least once in your lifetime. *Good spot to people watch. :) The Meh: *Try and find a good time to come see the View. Early isn't necessarily better as our first time was in the a.m. and it was really dark and didn't make for great photos. When we stopped by later in the day the lighting was much better. I mean this is all assuming you care, of course. ;) Tldr: Yeah it's touristy but sfw?! #WorthIt #YoLo

Mary Lou S.

Yelp
If you've traveled to/from Yosemite via Hwy 41, you're familiar with Tunnel View. A must stop area for amazing photos of the valley, half dome and El Cap. Just past the tunnel when you're headed north into the park. A decent sized parking lot...just watch for people walking across the road!

Mylesha D.

Yelp
Getting there: Located on Wawona Rd, after exiting the long tunnel you will come across Tunnel View. There is parking on both sides, but parking is limited. Experience: Still as amazing, and I feel like it gets better each time. This was the first time I had been here in the winter time and if you thought Yosemite was beautiful in the summer, you've got to see it in the winter. It was little crowded even for the winter time, but for the most part people were in and out.

Michelle T.

Yelp
Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular destinations for outdoor explorations in California. Tourists come from around the world to take in the natural beauty of Yosemite. However, before further exploring what Yosemite has to offer, there is one destination that you must visit. Tunnel View is the ultimate location as it gives you a breathtaking view of the entire park. Tunnel View is located off of Highway 41 and it's one of the first locations that you can stop off at as you enter the park. My suggestion is to arrive early, at sunrise or come in the evening at sunset. The parking lot is a decent size and there's more parking across the road. However, given the popularity of this location, it may be difficult to find a parking spot. Tunnel View is the one location where you can see El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and Half Dome. Unfortunately, the falls weren't flowing when we came as it's supplied by runoff from rain water and melted snow. Given the low rainfall numbers at this point, I'm guessing that it won't be flowing until some time next month. However, the view is still breathtaking! Speaking of Tunnel View, you can come in through the Wawona Tunnel portal which is at the southbound entrance to Yosemite. It's an epic drive because when you exit the tunnel, the first thing that you see is a Tunnel View. It's beyond amazing! There's not much else to say expect that this an absolute MUST for when you visit the park. Yosemite is a place that you can visit for days on end. The scenery changes with unforgiving weather patterns that eventually yield some of the most iconic views in California. I highly recommend spending time at Tunnel View for an unforgettable view of Yosemite National Park.

Dani S.

Yelp
Must stop here if you are visiting Yosemite! There a viewpoint with a small parking lot to stop and take pictures. You get a beautiful panoramic view of the whole valley. Cameras out! This spot is on the way to glacier point or you can stop on the way back. Very convenient.

Thi N.

Yelp
When I got there there was parking on the left and right. Lots of cars and bus, so it fill up quickly. View was breath take so make sure to take it in too. People was very respectful waiting for each other turns to take photos. Just be patient. That's how I was able to have my dog photos. Yes people were taking his photo and with him. That's was a cute experience for us. Not much else to do there. Nice quick stop.

Vincent P.

Yelp
This is a popular spot for tourists to get a nice panoramic view of the valley. Since it really doesn't require much effort other than driving to get here, it's usually packed with people. There are a decent amount of parking spots available, but it will definitely fill up, so try to get here early if you don't want to stress about getting a spot. If it is your first visit Yosemite, I would definitely recommend making a stop here to see the view. It's definitely a great spot to take pictures without requiring a difficult or long hike!

Sharon P.

Yelp
The Tunnel to the view where famous photographer Ansel Adams captured one of his most famous shots simply cannot be missed (unless you happen to be driving at night and if so I implore you to make the drive during the day so you can see it for yourself.) Awe inspiring, breathtaking, remarkable are just a couple adjectives that describe the beauty here. I remember the first time I saw the Grand Canyon and the lump that formed in my throat, the view here was just as emotional. Nature yes, higher power, for sure. The older I get the more I appreciate the spectacular canvas that is our nation and the glory that's on display every minute and hour of the day. Behold the view of El Cap, Half Dome in the distance and Bridalveil Fall then ask yourself why you waited so long to bear witness. This and so many other stunning areas in Yosemite and all of them just a drive away. Can't wait to visit again. Next time I'll bring a walking stick, a little more sunscreen and a LOT more silence.

Glen N.

Yelp
[Look up just "TUNNEL VIEW". As of Jan 2020, this listing has 13 reviews and the other has 83.] Voted #1 view from me magazine, 35 years in a row. A breathtaking view of the valley (El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall), it is also a live re-enactment of the famous Ansel Adams photo. As much as it pains me to say, you could theoretically drive to the tunnel view and then turn back. I assume that is what all these Asians climbing back into the buses are doing. Even my family did this back in 1985. We got the picture and used it for our Christmas card, orange hair and green striped tube socks and all. The view alone might be worth the one hour drive from Oakhurst, but it's kinda like driving past Disneyland but not going in. Or, like looking at a donut and not eating it. In fact, little known fact: Yosemite is Native American for donut. According to a popular web encyclopedia, "internationally renowned artists to casual tourists have painted, drawn, and photographed the dramatic scenery from here and nearby vantage points since the 19th century." In that way it's like a bowl of fruit. A bowl of fruit responsible for over a thousand traumatic deaths since the 1800s, but a bowl of fruit nonetheless. The cool thing is that, after an hour of winding, ear-popping roads, wondering if each turn will be the last, you come to the long and dark Wawona Tunnel that ends of Route 41, an engineering feat cutting through solid bedrock for 4,233 feet (the longest tunnel in California, not counting your mom). I recommend slowing down because you will need to act fast to enter a tiny lot on your convenient right or a larger lot on your death-defying left, a task that is more difficult than it sounds because your eyes will be adjusting to the light and--- oh yeah--- the #1 view in the world will be distracting you. Pretend you are in Bird Box and DON'T LOOK--- just safely park first. Once you park, you will be fighting people trying to get the perfect picture. Imagine trying to take a picture of Santa Claus sitting on the Lincoln Memorial with the Mona Lisa in his hands. In fact, little known fact, that's what Yosemite means. Tip #1: I like to find the family that looks the least like me and take a picture with them for my Christmas card. Tip #2: Look for the topographical 3D map of the valley. It is so long, rectangular, dark, and grooved that it reminds me of Han Solo in carbonite. You love it? I know.

Marisela S.

Yelp
My turn to take the iconic picture. I never even knew where this place was in the Yosemite Park, how sad, especially because I live so close and I see people post this view all the time and I had no idea where it was. Now I know and I will for sure come back with my kiddo. We found parking easily, spent a good 30 minutes here rotating from left to right, taking in the view, I would love to come back at sunset or in the morning, I mean to just see the cars disappear into the forest and then to drive down and explore everything from ground level, I mean it was just amazing. I forget what is in my own backyard and this just put things back into perspective. Will be back soon!

Kelly H.

Yelp
I highly recommend stopping by tunnel view on your way to Yosemite Valley. It's truly an amazing first look, an appetizer basically, of what you're going to see in Yosemite! Great views of half dome, El Capitan, and bridalveil falls. If you have time, come back during sunset for another spectacular view! I promise it's worth it! Definitely the "signature" Yosemite valley view and for a good reason!

Allison C.

Yelp
Visited mid Nov 2022. We came here a little later in the day by recommendation at our lodging. The lady informed us that in the mornings, it could be a little foggy/mist or something. So we should wait for it to lift and go later. I should've clarified the time. We ended up getting there later than I anticipated. I did see that sundown was at 448p and we arrived at 3p, there's a large shadow in the view. I wish I had gone earlier. So keep that in mind. No trouble parking. It was cold and windy. Make sure if you have someone take your photo. Double check it that they include El Capitan, half dome, and bridal veil falls. I was too passive and said the photo was nice but all she included was half dome. Side note: I didn't know which side of the tunnel we would be arriving in. So the view was actually on our right before the tunnel. We decided to go thru it and see if there was another look out (directly) on the other end and there isn't. We were on a time crunch to go home before dark. So we didn't drive any further past the tunnel and turned around.

Tony H.

Yelp
When you're driving into Yosemite and you get to the tunnel make sure you pull over at the end of that tunnel, park your car, & soak in the amazing views. In the distance you'll see Half Dome, & El Capitan. This is one of the best places in Yosemite to take a lot of great pictures. Plain & simple, this is a must stop place when you visit Yosemite Valley.

Jacqueline T.

Yelp
Located just outside of Yosemite Valley, this is probably the shortest drive with the best view. There's a small crowded parking lot there, so I imagine finding parking is hard in the summer. We were able to get a spot in October. The view is right at the parking lot, so no hiking here. It's a really pretty view. You can see the whole valley with Half Dome, El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and everything else all in one shot. This is definitely a must see stop in Yosemite!

Richard H.

Yelp
If you are planning a trip to Yosemite National Park, be sure to plan for a truly scenic picture! This location provides a panoramic view of the park, and an image that will become your screen saver for your desktop computer!

Tashara H.

Yelp
This place is iconic, magestic, and overrun by tourists. If you are lucky enough to get into the valley at the first break of day, you will probably have no problem finding a parking space and capturing the classic shot of Yosemite Valley. If you get there between 10am and sunset, good luck. Tip: when driving into the valley, don't pull in to the larger parking lot to the left. A few paces more and you'll find a smaller lot to the right (make sure to cross the street safely). This side tends to be less crowded and will make it easier for you to continue on your way to the valley after the stop--if that's the way you are going. This is a must stop for anyone who hasn't been there before. Hence why nearly ever visitor and tour bus stops here. I'm lucky enough to be a quasi-local who has her share of photos from this spot. Unless there's something phenomenal about the moment's lighting or sky, I usually just drive on through without stopping (unless someone's crossing the street, of course!).

John S.

Yelp
Tunnel View is one of Yosemite's gems. For people entering the park from the western entrance, this is their first spectacular glimpse of what Yosemite offers. We came in from the east on Tioga Road, so we had already seen much of Yosemite's splendor by the time we got there, but it was still wonderful to see. It's amazing to be able to see El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall all at once. This is a stop that shouldn't be missed.

Sandeep R.

Yelp
Lots of well-known landmarks are visible here, including, from left to right, El Capitan, Yosemite Valley, Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rocks, and Bridalveil Fall. There's ample parking available as well. I'd highly recommend making a quick stop here just to soak in the wonderful views

Tammy E.

Yelp
Can't go wrong with this viewpoint. No matter when you come here you are bound to be completely taken aback by this stunning view. If you happen to go somewhere between the high and low season you can probably catch a sunset here almost to yourself. Growing up just an hour and a half away from here often makes you take it for granted but I sure am glad this was practically in my backyard when I had the time and energy to explore it all!

Tessa D.

Yelp
Beautiful!!!!!! I want to go back here..Yosemite is a place where you can relax and see very beautiful views. It's worth all the drive.

Tracy L.

Yelp
This is always a great stop! When we arrived at about 7:30am last Thursday, it was hazy - but still beautiful. Thanks to restricted access into the park, there was an abundance of parking and one around us.

Stefanie C.

Yelp
BEAUTIFUL! One of my favorite views of Yosemite. Literally right before a major tunnel. There's parking on both sides of the street, and hopefully you can find a spot when it's crowded. You can see Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil from the vantage point. Great for photo ops. It can get a little chilly as the sun goes down, so consider bringing a jacket. Our friend brought her DSLR for tripod for tons of photos (kinda comedic to see a bunch of people doing that) so the rest of us hung out and chatted as she did that. Great place to watch the sunset, but come here at least an hour before the sun goes down. Once it gets a little dark, it's too late for photos. Or at least that's what my talented photographer friend taught me. Lovely for a romantic evening of hot chocolate, or even just driving by!

Mark D.

Yelp
Wow! Been here before but it seems better this time. The views are spectacular and just takes your breath away. Half Dome and El Capitan....omg! The traffic backs and parking is like a lottery ticket. But park when you can. Summer time is very very crowded.....so be patient and come with a smile!

Josephine C.

Yelp
On a Saturday morning, we arrived at the tunnel view at 8:30am. There were many people viewing the beautiful sight. Clean air and able to take great photos. The morning was cold and crisp. Too bad we missed out on the sunrise. This spot has good phone coverage of 3 bars.

David N.

Yelp
This is probably the best view in the whole park that is readily accessible from right off the main road. There is a huge parking lot and the view is a minute's walk away. It gives you a beautiful breathtaking view right down the main valley of the park. Both sides show the nice granite mountains. A must stop if you are short on time!

Becky K.

Yelp
Located about 45 minutes from the south entrance of Yosemite. You literally drive through a long tunnel then you can pull into the parking lot and view the Yosemite Valley. Parking is very limited and large tour busses and their passengers tend to take over the area. Once you navigate around them the scenery is breathtaking. You will see views of El Capitan and the Yosemite Valley. Continue on to the Yosemite Valley floor to campgrounds and trailheads.

Anrana S.

Yelp
IMO - this is about as close to the Valley as you need to get. Gorgeous view of El Cap. Gorgeous view of Half Dome. Gorgeous view of Bridal Veil Falls. The views are better here than in the valley. You can watch sunrise here. At sunset you can watch all the colors changing on the rocks. It can get crowded. But people tend not to stay long. Except at sunset. This place is a zoo at sunset. The hardcore photographers show up at least an hour before sunset to stake out their spot and set up their tripods. (Hint - look for the guy with the biggest camera bag. He will be the one who staked out the best spot.).

Robert C.

Yelp
Drive through the longest tunnel in California, and exit with a breathtaking view of Yosemite Valley. This is the tunnel view, one of the iconic attractions of Yosemite. We drive toward Glacier Point, and then drive back through the 4233 foot long Wawona tunnel, the longest highway tunnel in California, built in 1933. Electronic highway signs alert us in the tunnel to pedestrians crossing the highway ahead of us. High drama, as from a distance away we can see the daylight expanding like an approaching train, and then the spectacular panorama of the Valley is upon us! Normally both parking lots on both sides of the highway are packed with parked vehicles and tour buses. Today, on a weekday afternoon in February, the lot is only half full of cars, including at least two SUVs each parked over the parking lines, effectively taking up two parking spots, or making sure no one parks too close to them. No tour trams in the center in their own oversized parking spots, unloading huge number of tour group riders today. There are a couple of compact spots right by the entrance, and those cars that can't find a parking spot cross over the road to the hill side and the overflow parking lot. El Capitan to the left, Half Dome in the far background in the center, Sentinel Dome to the center right, and Bridalveil falls to the far right, with snow capped mountains in the distance, over a vast array of green forests, against a cloudy sky. The place has only a few people on the overlook edge, fenced in by low stone walls, acting as safety railings. Everyone is taking pictures of the Valley, and of their family and friends in the foreground. Teenagers stand right on the overlook edge, while their friends and relatives take pictures for posterity. 10 minutes later, we are out of there, with memories of another trip to the tunnel view. John Muir could not have foreseen that this overlook, built in 1933, would become the iconic spot to take the picture of Yosemite National Park. Sunset views can be dramatic, with the rays of the setting sun highlighting the tops of the Valley peaks with a golden glow, against a dark background. Other dramatic viewpoints in Yosemite National Park include Glacier Point, the top of Sentinel Dome, and in the high country Olmstead's Point, all closed in this El Nino year until June. This is also the route to going to Fresno, but I've never gone to Fresno this way, and in fact have no intention of ever going to Fresno. Now if only those SUV drivers learned to park within the lines and didn't take up two parking spaces!

Jen N.

Yelp
Definitely an amazing spot to enjoy the spectacular view and a perfect place to capture some beautiful shot here. People come and go so we were able to get parking without difficulty. Highly recommended for everyone when in Yosemite.

Lit L.

Yelp
Great view of Yosemite before going into Yosemite Village. One of the best views for taking a picture with the entire family.

Sergio C.

Yelp
We had the privilege of taking a road trip to Yosemite California the last week of May 2021. The visiting light is open and available to sightseers. I highly recommend everyone take the time to stop and enjoy this view. It's an absolute must. If you are not staying in the park overnight, You should stop add this viewpoint on your way out of the park. Covid has not disrupted any activities at this location. Enjoy and have a great time.

Madhu S.

Yelp
"This is the place with some amazingly vivacious views that you can have. it's absolutely a jaw dropping.From this point you can view a large portion of Yosemite valley . I've been for 3 times in the last 3 years. My suggestions that , with a view like this in front of, you obviously gonna take numerous pictures. Do all the clicking as soon as possible and the just calm down keep the cam aside and just breathe, enjoy that amazing nature that have in front. Such a pleasant experience that you can have over here. Below are some of my capture from this place ......

Greg T.

Yelp
This is the classic view point for the Yosemite Valley. Its the one that any one who has an interest in Yosemite has seen. I've added my photo to the millions of others... This time we visited the valley was the day after the big Memorial Day weekend. The crowds were still there (it's Yosemite, after all!) but not in the crushing numbers we were told had been there over the holiday. Beatiful, magical even if it's over crowded!

Jerry H.

Yelp
This is so worth it! I was unprepared for the mix of a beautiful and anxiety inducing drive prior to arrival of TV. The stops along the way to snap some pictures were cool and all but when you get to Tunnel View the landscape and the view of El Capitan were stunning. Coming out of the tunnel it's a hard left for access and maybe accessible at the far end of the parking lot.

Vladmir T.

Yelp
Great Panoramic Views Of Yosemite Valley! This is a great spot to snap those epic shots of Yosemite Valley with both El Capitan and Half Dome captivating the background. This is on your way into the park where you get your "this is what we came to see" previews to motivate you for the hiking to come! Stop Off and snap some shots!

Doris W.

Yelp
For me, getting to Yosemite from Carlsbad takes about 8-9 hours depending on traffic. As you get closer and closer to Yosemite on the drive, the excitement starts to build. Once you go through the park entrance and pay your fees, you're almost about to burst with anticipation with the grand views you are about to see, and then once you drive through the tunnel.... that's the tipping point! The tunnel itself is pretty long, slow down as you are getting to the end of the tunnel or you might miss the parking lot where you can park and enjoy the view. I've stopped here twice, once way early in the morning when the sun was just rising, and the other day in the late morning. Definitely go early, when we went late morning, there were buses and buses of people everywhere. Sooooo crowded. Either way the view is breathtaking. You can see everything! Half Dome in the far distance, El Capitan right there in front of you. Tunnel View is the best even with the crowds!

Kalani R.

Yelp
This spot was amazing! The view really is amazing. Everyone was respecting the mask policy and the distance was kind of an issue. A must stop when visiting Yosemite!

Deebs M.

Yelp
Meteor showers? Start driving with your sleeping bags and loads of munching items (food) & hot chocolate in a flask or coffee..! If you are photographer, this is your heaven..! Do plan to come here in winter, when the valley & mountains are covered in snow... and in spring when everything is lush & green... Definitely a must go to spot whenever you visit the Yosemite valley.. it's comparatively safe as there will be people around.. and cars passing at least every 15 minutes even at night..!

J W.

Yelp
One of the greatest views I have ever seen. Make this stop right after going through the tunnel heading into Yosemite Valley on the 41. I liked both stops before and after the tunnel.

Emily X.

Yelp
Driving through the tunnel, dark with orange fixtures on the sides. Further and further you see a speck of lights as you reach the end the tunnels, you eyes against to the environment again. Bam. Tunnel view. El Capitan, half dome, all the famous MacOS wallpapers, right there in front of you. Gorgeous.

Yaneth P.

Yelp
You cannot go home without making a stop here.. Amazing views of the El Capitan, Half Dome, and the rest of the valley. Lots of beautiful photo ops as you take in the splendor. The photos are wonderful but don't do it justice. You have to see it in person. Do yourself a favor and stop here, take it all in and enjoy!

Gerry P.

Yelp
Must stop to check out the panoramic view of Yosemite. Limited parking but people usually stop and take pictures and go within minutes anyways. Will pass by here if you enter from south entrance.

Eric N.

Yelp
I totally understand why everyone gives Tunnel View 5 stars and thinks that it's just amazing. I give it three stars just for that alone. To be honest, if its your first time coming to Yosemite and you are lucky enough to come up the 41 and come through the Waywona Tunnel, this is the best way to see Yosemite for the first time..you literally drive out of the tunnel to one of the best views of the entire valley. And then, it becomes Disneyland. This is where EVERY tour bus, tourist, random people passing though...EVERYONE STOPS HERE. Its one amazing view, but honestly being in Yosemite is all about finding your own little spot and getting away from everything and there are THOUSANDS of spots out there that are far grander than this one. I will give you Tunnel View is good early in the morning or at night on a full moon, but I try not to spend too much time here. Do your self a favor and if you NEED to get out and see the view, do it in 10 minute or less and keep on going because all that stuff you are seeing form miles away is much better in person, away from the huge crowds of people. :0)

Yonnie C.

Yelp
One of the best views in all of Yosemite National Park. It's a classic photo opportunity here, everyone MUST make a stop here. You can see El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridal Veil Falls from this vantage point. Parking can be hectic during busy hours, but fortunately we were able to find a spot on a Friday around noon in spring time (April). Be sure to make a wish as you go into the tunnel and hold your breath until you make it to the other side! haha :) Photos here: https://ourwelltraveledlife.wordpress.com/2015/04/13/yosemite-national-park-a-west-coast-wonder/

Byron S.

Yelp
I didn't get to spend a great deal of time here, but the time I did, the parking area after the tunnel was a great view. Took plenty of awesome pictures and made my way down to the base of the waterfall. It's still on my list to see more of the park and spend a couple days enjoying. I will be back!