Tunnel Rock: A Gateway to Sequoia's Giants
Discover Tunnel Rock in Sequoia National Park: a historic landmark offering stunning views, easy access, and a glimpse into the park's natural beauty and human history along the Generals Highway.
Tunnel Rock, an iconic landmark in Sequoia National Park, welcomes visitors with its unique granite archway. Carved in 1938 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the construction of the Generals Highway, this massive rock formation once served as a vehicular tunnel. While cars no longer pass through, Tunnel Rock remains a popular spot for photographs and exploration. Located near the Foothills Visitor Center, it offers easy access and a glimpse into the park's natural beauty and human history. Visitors can walk beneath the rock, admire the surrounding scenery, and even climb to the top for panoramic views. Tunnel Rock provides a memorable introduction to the wonders of Sequoia National Park, blending geological significance with historical charm.
A brief summary to Tunnel Rock
- Sequoia National Park, Generals Hwy, Three Rivers, California, 93271, US
- +1559-565-3341
- Visit website
Local tips
- Climb to the top of Tunnel Rock for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, but exercise caution as the surface can be slippery.
- Be aware of poison oak in the area and stay on designated paths to avoid contact.
- Check road conditions, especially during winter, as tire chains may be required on the Generals Highway.
- Visit the nearby Foothills Visitor Center for information about the park's history, geology, and other attractions.
- Combine your visit to Tunnel Rock with a stop at Hospital Rock to see ancient Native American pictographs.
Getting There
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Driving
Tunnel Rock is located on the Generals Highway within Sequoia National Park. From the Ash Mountain Entrance (south entrance), drive approximately 2 miles north on Generals Highway. Tunnel Rock will be on your left, with a parking pullout available on the right side of the road. From the Grant Grove area (north), drive south along Generals Highway. After passing the Foothills Visitor Center, continue for about 2 miles; Tunnel Rock will be on your right. Expect potential delays due to road work or traffic. Entrance to the park costs $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days and includes access to both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to Tunnel Rock, during peak season, park shuttles may operate along the Generals Highway. Check the Sequoia National Park website for the most up-to-date shuttle schedules and routes. If using the shuttle, disembark at the closest stop to Tunnel Rock and walk a short distance to the site. Park entrance fee of $20 if entering by foot or bicycle.
Discover more about Tunnel Rock
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Marble Falls Trailhead
2.4 km
Hike to a stunning waterfall through the rugged beauty of Sequoia National Park's foothills; a moderate trail offering breathtaking views and a rewarding outdoor experience.
Hospital Rock
4.2 km
Discover ancient Native American pictographs and bedrock mortars at Hospital Rock, a historically significant site nestled in the scenic foothills of Sequoia National Park, California.
Paradise Creek Trailhead
4.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sequoia's foothills on the Paradise Creek Trail, a gentle hike through diverse landscapes, perfect for year-round exploration and nature lovers.
Middle Fork Trail
6.1 km
Hike the Middle Fork Trail in Sequoia National Park for a unique foothills adventure, stunning canyon views, and a chance to escape the crowds and discover hidden gems.
Beetle Rock Trail
7.7 km
Discover panoramic views and natural beauty at Beetle Rock in Sequoia National Park, an accessible granite vista offering a memorable experience for all visitors.
Squatters Cabin
8.1 km
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Crescent Meadow
8.5 km
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Giant Forest
8.6 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park: home to the world's largest trees, offering accessible trails and a profound connection with nature's ancient wonders.
Tharp's Log
9.0 km
Step back in time at Tharp's Log, a remarkable pioneer cabin built inside a fallen giant sequoia, offering a unique glimpse into the early days of Sequoia National Park and the Giant Forest.
Cattle Cabin
9.2 km
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Sequoia Sightseeing Tours
10.9 km
Embark on unforgettable adventures through Sequoia National Park with expert-guided sightseeing tours showcasing nature's grandeur.
Wuksachi Lodge
13.1 km
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The Peaks Restaurant
13.1 km
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Atwell Mill Campground
13.5 km
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Tokopah Trailhead
14.0 km
Hike to the stunning 1,200-foot Tokopah Falls in Sequoia National Park, a moderate 3.4-mile trail through granite cliffs and lush forests along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River.
Unmissable attractions to see
Foothills Visitor Center
1.7 km
Your first stop in Sequoia National Park: Discover exhibits, maps, and ranger info at the Foothills Visitor Center.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks - Headquarters
1.7 km
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Sequoia Natural History Association
1.7 km
Explore Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks with expert guidance, resources & support from the Sequoia Parks Conservancy (formerly SNHA).
Sign - Sequoia National Park
2.7 km
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Kaweah River
3.5 km
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Hospital Rock River Trailhead
4.1 km
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Hospital Rock Picnic Area
4.1 km
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Amphitheater Point Viewpoint
4.7 km
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Amphitheater Point
4.7 km
Experience breathtaking Sierra Nevada views from this easily accessible vista point along Generals Highway in Sequoia National Park.
Vista Point
5.0 km
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Marble Falls
6.3 km
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Moro Rock
6.3 km
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Hanging Rock
6.4 km
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Moro Rock Trail
6.5 km
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Sequoia National Park's Tunnel Log
7.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Buckeye Tree Lodge & Cabins
3.3 km
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The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge
3.4 km
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River View Grill & Bar
9.8 km
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Tony's Taverna On Wheels
9.9 km
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Rio Sierra Riverhouse
10.3 km
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Pupusas La Sabrosa Three Rivers
10.8 km
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Ol Buckaroo
10.9 km
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Pizza Factory
12.2 km
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Casa Mendoza Mexican Restaurant
12.3 km
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Sequoia Cider Mill Restaurant
13.5 km
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Lodgepole Campground
13.8 km
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Lazy J Ranch Motel - Three Rivers, CA
14.7 km
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Stony Creek Lodge
18.2 km
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Montecito Sequoia Lodge
22.1 km
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Baker Mountain House
22.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Totem Market & Gifts
4.8 km
Explore Totem Market & Gifts for unique souvenirs, gourmet snacks, and local brews in the heart of California's Sequoia region.
Reimers Candies & Gifts
9.6 km
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Jerky This!
9.7 km
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Shell
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Three Rivers Market
10.8 km
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Sequoia Coffee Co.
10.9 km
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Sequoia Souveniers
10.9 km
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Gathered
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Sierra Subs & Salad
10.9 km
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Three Rivers Mercantile
11.9 km
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Village Market
12.3 km
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Kaweah General Store
13.2 km
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Lodgepole Market & Grill
13.5 km
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Grant Grove Gift Shop
29.7 km
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Grant Grove Market
29.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lake Canyon Ranch
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Serrano's Mexican Restaurant
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Next Bar
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Uncle Tom's Cabin
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Bespoke
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Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar
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Quail State
91.1 km
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The Bar
91.7 km
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Howlin Wolf
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Elliott's Bar
92.7 km
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Spokeasy Public House
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Lucy's Lounge
92.8 km
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The Shanty
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The Lincoln Pub & Grub
93.0 km
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The Captains Brig
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