Sequoia National Park
5-10 Minutes
Spring, Summer, Fall
Free with Park Entry
Overview
If you’re planning a road trip through the massive groves of giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park, don’t skip the famous Tunnel Log, a fallen sequoia resting across Crescent Meadow Road that invites visitors (yes, even private vehicles) to drive right through its trunk. This popular attraction in the Giant Forest area delivers a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and quirky roadside charm, making it one of the best things to do in the park.
The Tunnel Log was created after a giant sequoia tree fell due to natural causes in late 1937. Instead of removing the enormous trunk, the Civilian Conservation Corps, an official government organization formed during the Great Depression, carved a tunnel through it in 1938. The tree once stood over 275 feet tall, and today the fallen sequoia remains a fascinating reminder of both the scale of these massive sequoia trees and the ingenuity of early park efforts. Unlike the famous standing tunnel tree in Yosemite National Park, this one lies across the road, creating a completely different experience.
Tunnel Log in Sequoia National Park
Stephanie, Justin, Tyler, and Ryan standing under Tunnel Log
Tunnel Log Plan
When we planned our day exploring Sequoia National Park and nearby Kings Canyon National Park, we made sure to include a scenic loop through the Giant Forest area. Our route took us along Generals Highway with stops at the Giant Forest Museum, the iconic General Sherman Tree, and a detour down Crescent Meadow Road to the Tunnel Log.
Driving through the tunnel log felt like a classic national park moment, one of those “you have to do it at least once” experiences. We took our time snapping photos, walking beneath the fallen sequoia, and soaking in the towering giant sequoia trees surrounding us. It ended up being one of the most memorable (and fun) stops of the day.
Getting There
Location
Sequoia National Park sits in California’s Sierra Nevada, east of Visalia and accessible via Generals Highway. The Tunnel Log is located in the Giant Forest area along Crescent Meadow Road, just past the turnoff for Moro Rock.
There’s no large dedicated parking lot at the tunnel itself, but you’ll find small pullouts and a nearby parking area where you can stop, especially if traffic is busy. During peak summer months, expect this popular tourist attraction to have a short line of cars.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit the Tunnel Log, and fully experience the Giant Forest area, is late spring through early fall, typically from late May through October, when Crescent Meadow Road is open to private vehicles. Early spring and late fall can be quieter, but road access may be limited depending on weather.
During the summer months, this is a very popular attraction, so visiting early in the day or later time in the afternoon can help you avoid crowds. In winter, the road often closes due to snow, and access may require hiking or snowshoes.
The brown and yellow sign that explains the history of Tunnel Log
Tunnel Log in Sequoia National Park
Who Can Go?
The Tunnel Log is accessible to most visitors, including families and road-trippers traveling in standard private vehicles. The tunnel opening measures 8 feet high and 17 feet wide. Larger vehicles, RVs, and trailers should use the nearby bypass road and walk up from a safe parking area.
It’s an easy stop with no hiking required, though you can step out and walk around the fallen sequoia for photos. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer, and occasionally black bears, especially in quieter parts of the Giant Forest.
What You'll See
At the Tunnel Log, you’ll experience one of the most unique natural wonders in the United States: driving through a massive fallen sequoia surrounded by towering giant sequoias. The tunnel cut through the trunk highlights just how enormous a single giant sequoia tree can be.
The surrounding Giant Forest area is filled with scenic viewpoints, picnic areas, and peaceful forest stretches. You may spot wildlife such as marmots, birds, and even black bears in the distance. Interpretive signage near the site explains the history of the tree, including its fall from natural causes and its transformation into a beloved landmark.
What to Bring & Wear
Wear comfortable walking shoes since you’ll likely step out to explore and take photos. Bring layers — even in summer, the shaded forest can feel cool. Pack water, snacks, and sun protection.
If you’re planning to explore more nearby stops like the Giant Forest Museum or picnic areas near Crescent Meadow, consider bringing a daypack. A wide-angle lens or smartphone camera works great for capturing the full scale of the tunnel log and surrounding trees.
A line of vehicles waiting to drive through the famous Tunnel Log
Where to Go
To reach the Tunnel Log, drive into Sequoia National Park via Generals Highway and continue toward the Giant Forest area. Follow signs for Crescent Meadow Road, which branches off near Moro Rock. Once on Crescent Meadow Road, continue for about half a mile and Tunnel Log will be directly along the road. You’ll likely notice cars lining up to drive through.
There is no formal parking lot at the Tunnel Log, but you’ll find small pullouts and a nearby parking area where you can safely stop if you want to walk up for photos. If you’re visiting during peak times in the summer months, be prepared for a short wait, as this popular attraction often has a line of vehicles.
If you’re driving a larger vehicle that exceeds the tunnel clearance, follow the clearly marked bypass road around the fallen sequoia and park nearby to walk back and experience the tunnel on foot.
How Long Does it Take?
A quick stop at the Tunnel Log typically takes just 5–10 minutes, especially if traffic is light. However, if you plan to get out, take photos, and enjoy the surrounding giant sequoia trees, expect to spend a bit longer.
If you combine it with nearby highlights like Moro Rock or the General Sherman Tree, plan for 1–2 hours to fully enjoy this section of the park.
Cost
There is no additional fee specifically for the Tunnel Log drive‑through. However, you will need to pay the standard entrance fee for Sequoia National Park or hold a valid annual National Parks pass.
All of us standing under the log with arms out to show the size
Tips for Tunnel Log in Sequoia National Park
- Arrive early in the day to avoid queues and capture cleaner photos at the Tunnel Log.
- If your vehicle is taller than 8 feet, use the bypass road and walk up to the tunnel for a photo instead.
- Always check road conditions before heading down Crescent Meadow Road — it may close after snow or require chains in winter.
- For the best light, aim for early morning or late afternoon when the forest lighting is softer and more dramatic.
- Respect the trees and forest — no climbing on the log, no blocking traffic, and keep wildlife disturbance minimal. Over‑crowding can diminish the moment.
- Combine your stop at Tunnel Log with other nearby highlights in the Giant Forest area to make the most of your park time.
- Bring a camera or smartphone: this spot is one of those “tell your friends you did it” moments in the park.