The Wawona Tunnel In Northern California Has An Interesting History

If you’ve ever been to Yosemite National Park, chances are you might’ve driven through the famous Wawona Tunnel (also known simply as the Yosemite Tunnel). This tunnel is an iconic part of California’s grandest national park, and seeing it should be a bucket list item for anyone. Not only was this tunnel an impressive feat in man-made engineering, but it has had a long and fascinating history as well.

This is one of the most iconic views in Northern California. Every photographer living in our region of the state probably has this landscape in their personal collection, and it's no wonder why. But where exactly can this view be found?

It turns out that Yosemite's Wawona Tunnel will take you right to it. In fact, this impressive view is often referred to as "Tunnel View" and it's probably the most well-known sightseeing spot in the park.

People have been using Wawona Tunnel to arrive at this scenic destination for *decades*. Construction began on the tunnel in 1930 and it was formally dedicated in 1933. It's been a Northern California icon ever since!

Upon completion, the Wawona Tunnel was considered the largest tunnel for vehicles in the west, boating an impressive distance of 4,230-feet. Not to mention, the tunnel is 28-feet wide and 19-feet tall.

The tunnel's stunning views weren't a secret for long. Ansel Adams took a famous photograph here in 1935, and people have been traveling from all over the world to get their own photo of it ever since.

To get to Tunnel View, you'll travel east on Highway 41 toward Yosemite Valley. You'll pass through the tunnel, coming out on the east end at the Tunnel View overlook.

It's pretty incredible to think that this is one view that has stayed delightfully the same over the years. There may be more people visiting Wawona Tunnel these days, but Yosemite's landscape is as breathtaking as ever.

Have you had the pleasure of driving through the Wawona Tunnel? This tunnel is a must-see for any Northern Californian! If you thought this tunnel was fascinating, just wait until you see this enchanting tunnel of trees in Northern California.

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The Longest Tunnel In Northern California Has A Truly Fascinating Backstory

Emerson

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