Sequoia National Park's Tunnel Log

The Tunnel Log is one of Sequoia National Park's most iconic and quirky attractions.

What it is: A fallen giant sequoia that toppled in 1937, through which a tunnel was carved to allow vehicles to drive through. The tunnel is 17 feet wide and 8 feet tall — enough for standard passenger cars, though taller vehicles must use a bypass route alongside it.

The Tree

• Fell naturally across the Crescent Meadow Road
• Approximately 275 feet tall when living
• Base diameter of about 21 feet
• Estimated age at the time of fall: around 2,000 years

History

Rather than removing the massive log entirely — a monumental and destructive task — the park service chose to carve through it, preserving the tree while restoring road access. The Civilian Conservation Corps completed the work shortly after the tree fell.

Visiting

Located along Crescent Meadow Road in the Giant Forest area, not far from the General Sherman Tree. Driving through it has been a beloved tradition for generations of park visitors, and there's a short walk-through option for those on foot as well.

A fun contrast to the solemnity of the ancient giants nearby — a little piece of mid-20th century Americana nestled among thousand-year-old trees.