As its name suggests, Tunnel Rock is a large granite boulder through which a passageway has been built. It was built in the 1930s for road traffic in Sequoia National Park, although today it is open only to pedestrians. Brave yourself to walk beneath the enormous balancing rock, which looks as though it could topple over at any moment.
Arrive at the attraction and spot the brown sign marking its entrance. Take photos of the flattop boulder, with forested mountains of the park creating a scenic background. Set down a blanket on the side of the path for a picnic beside the rock tunnel, which makes a change of scenery from the tree-laden landmarks that dominate the national park.
See the rock at sunset or sunrise for some of the best photo opportunities. Some visitors like to climb on top of the boulder, although this is discouraged, as it can be dangerous. Embark on a hike through the hilly area and follow the path of the Kaweah River in the valley below.
Check in at the nearby Foothill Visitor Center, which is just 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) north of the southern entrance to Sequoia National Park. Here you can plan trips and find information about hikes and exhibits on the park’s ecology and natural history. The park remains open to the public at all times, with a fee for entrance.
Learn about the history of Tunnel Rock, which was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1938. It provided the only way through the area, until the highway was widened in 1997.
Find Tunnel Rock beside the Kaweah River in Sequoia National Park. Drive south from the Giant Forest Museum for 14 miles (22 kilometers) to get here in about 40 minutes.
Venture farther into the rocky park to see the dramatic summits of Castle Rocks North, Paradise Peak and Castle Rocks South.
