Adjacent to Wawona Road at the east portal of the Wawona Tunnel, your family can enjoy the ever popular Tunnel View Overlook. From this one spot, you can catch a view of four of Yosemite's most recognized Landmarks: El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome.
During peak season, it is estimated that about 5,000-7,000 people visit Tunnel View on any given day.
When coming from the Fresno area, we have found that it is best to exit to the right parking lot instead of the left. The right parking area is less crowded and still has amazing views. Too many times we have turned left and found it very difficult to get back out of the parking lot to continue into the valley.
And like all the other reviews have said... don't miss this amazing place... it's worth a stop every time you come to Yosemite!
Lovely view of Yosemite (especially Half Dome). No matter how many times we go to Yosemite, we always make a quick stop here and soak in the view. The viewing area has a short fence, but you still need to keep a close eye on your kids, because wiggly little ones could easily shimmy through it when you're not looking. Just keep them close and you'll be fine.
Sometimes we drive by viewpoints in order to get to our destination. This is not a view point anyone should ever drive by. Pull over, stop the car, and prepare for your jaw to drop. Tunnel View is one of the most beautiful views you will ever experience. It really helps put into perspective just how spectacular Yosemite truly is. Watch your kids carefully in this area because there are lots of cars and this is nothing more than a pullout on the side of the road.
This is one of those picture perfect moments that you just don't want to miss. Your kids probably won't be able to appreciate this until they are older, but they'll love the pictures for a lifetime. This is one vista that contains Half Dome, El Capitan, and the Brideveil Falls all from one location. Come in the winter or spring seasons to catch the falls when they are the fullest from the winter rains. Don't forget your camera!
Just up the hill from the main Yosemite valley floor, is what is referred to as the "Tunnel View." There's a tunnel that goes through the hillside and exits with a stunning view of Yosemite valley with Half Dome in the distance to the right. Go there before sunrise, there are no crowds or noisy Harlyes going through the tunnel. Watch the sun come up (weather permitting!) and watch the glorious light illuminate Half Dome and the valley floor. Take a jacket, thermos of coffee (the sun rises slowly when you're watching it!), and think twice about waking your four-year-old to come with you on this one!