Tunnel Rock - Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park is known for its incredible trees, but this week we’re visiting a giant rock that’s probably one of the most popular tourist stops in the park. Join me at Tunnel Rock.
On top of Tunnel Rock in Sequoia National Park
Tunnel Rock next to Generals Highway in Sequoia National Park
Location
Tunnel Rock is located at the southern edge of the park just past the Foothills Visitor Center. The main parking pull off can be found as you approach the rock driving north, but there is also a small southbound parking pullout on the backside of the rock.
View of the parking area off Generals Highway from the top of Tunnel Rock
Walking under Tunnel Rock in Sequoia National Park
History
During the Great Depression, President Roosevelt's New Deal offered thousands of people temporary employment by working for the Civilian Conservation Corp. In the 1930s the CCC dug this tunnel for the original roadway here, which was used by national park travelers until the 1990s when the road had to be diverted to accommodate larger vehicles. In fact, I encourage you to look up as you walk under the huge granite boulder to see permanent marks from vehicles that were a bit too tall to make it under without hitting the rock.
Marks from vehicles on the bottom of Tunnel Rock
On top of Tunnel Rock in Sequoia National Park
Hike
While many tourists stop to snap a quick picture under Tunnel Rock, you can easily scramble to the top of this massive boulder in less than a minute. There are multiple trails up…the path in front of the rock is the most direct, but it’s also the steepest path small unstable rocks along the way. In my opinion the gentlest path up is located along the back side of the boulder, where a dirt path circles you up to the top. From the top you have great views in both directions of Generals Highway and the surrounding valley, as well as Moro Rock in the distance. While this makes for a quick an easy climb, it’s important to always adventure at your own comfort and skill level. A sign at the base of the climb notes that climbing this rock can be hazardous. There is no protection or railings along the way up or on top of the slanted boulder…and poison oak is abundant in the area.
View of Moro Rock from the top of Tunnel Rock
On top of Tunnel Rock in Sequoia National Park
Know Before You Go
• Please remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints. Pack out everything you pack in and stay on the designated paths. If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles, consider familiarizing yourself with them before your trip. Please help leave this special place better than you found it, so its natural beauty can be enjoyed for years to come.
• There are no restrooms located at Tunnel Rock, but you can find facilities just a few miles up the road at the Hospital Rock Picnic Area.
• While you enjoy the views, be wise and extra cautious as you explore. The paths leading up to the top can be unstable and the top of the rock is on a slant.
• In Winter the road can close due to dangerous ice and snow conditions.
Top 10 Sequoia Highlights
Tunnel Log
Hospital Rock
General Sherman Tree
Tunnel Rock
Big Trees Trail
Crystal Cave (reopens 2023)
Paradise Creek Trail
Beetle Rock
Tunnel Rock in Sequoia National Park
Tunnel Rock along Generals Highway in Sequoia National Park
In Summary
Thanks so much for joining me today in Sequoia National Park. Check out my Sequoia Travel Guide with pinpoint map locations and driving directions to some of my favorite spots inside the park, and for a virtual visit of Tunnel Rock you can watch my Behind the Blog video at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
On top of Tunnel Rock in Sequoia National Park
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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Located inside Sequoia National Park directly off Generals Highway, Hazelwood Nature Loop is an easy, family friendly hike that comes in at under 1.5 miles with 50 feet in elevation change. The trail begins past a fallen sequoia tunnel log and it circles for just over half a mile with minimal elevation gain through one of the most lush yet intimate trails in the Giant Forest.