Yosemite National Park is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the American West, where towering granite cliffs, mighty waterfalls, and ancient forests create unforgettable landscapes. In this post, I will introduce Tunnel View, one of Yosemite National Park’s most famous viewpoints, and Tuolumne Grove, where you can see giant sequoia trees. I’ll also share recommendations for a great value place to stay and a nearby restaurant.
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Yosemite Valley Tunnel View
Yosemite’s Tunnel View is well-known as one of Apple’s default MacBook wallpapers and is one of the best viewpoints for taking in all of Yosemite Valley at a glance.
The viewpoint gets its name from its location. To get to Yosemite Valley through the park’s south entrance, you must pass through the Wawona Tunnel. The view that appears as soon as you exit the tunnel is what has been named Tunnel View.
To give you a sense of scale, the cliff on the left, El Capitan, stands about 3,000 feet (914 m) tall. With Half Dome in the distance and Bridalveil Fall on the right, the scenery makes you immediately understand why this place is so famous.
While there are spacious parking lots on both sides of the road right in front of the Wawona Tunnel, be aware that they can get very crowded during peak season, weekends, and holidays.
There is another spot at a higher elevation called Glacier Point, but the road to Glacier Point is often closed. Therefore, among the viewpoints that are consistently accessible by car, none compare to Tunnel View. No matter how crowded the parking lot is, I highly recommend stopping to take at least one picture.
Tuolumne Grove
Tuolumne Grove is a small forest located at the westernmost point of Tioga Pass Road, which crosses Yosemite National Park from east to west. Most visitors to Yosemite tend to stay only in Yosemite Valley, but if your schedule allows, it is well worth visiting Tuolumne Grove to see the massive Giant Sequoias.
The Giant Sequoia is the largest tree by volume on Earth and is predominantly found on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains. While Sequoia National Park is undoubtedly the most famous place for sequoias, you can get a good taste of them in Yosemite as well.
There are three groves of Giant Sequoias within Yosemite National Park, with Mariposa Grove in the south being the most well-known. Here in Tuolumne Grove, there are a total of 25 Giant Sequoias.
Occasionally, you will see a fallen tree, and you can get a sense of its immense size when compared to a person. It feels less like a tree and more like a wall lying on the ground. Not only are the tree trunks incredibly thick, but the base and roots of the trees are so enormous that when you see them in person, you wonder if they can truly be trees.
One tree has a split that creates a tunnel from its roots to the middle of the opposite trunk. The tree is so large that an adult can easily pass through this opening.
Though the trees mentioned so far are large, they pale in comparison to the Dead Giant Tunnel Tree, the iconic symbol of Tuolumne Grove. As its name suggests, a tunnel was carved through the trunk of this dead tree. It’s so large that, with a little exaggeration, a compact car could probably pass through it. When you see it in person, it feels more like a house than a tree, so I highly recommend visiting.
Where to Stay
If you’re visiting Yosemite National Park, the best places to stay are the lodges or campgrounds inside Yosemite Valley. However, these accommodations tend to be pricey and hard to book during peak seasons.
Virginia Creek Settlement
If you’re traveling along Tioga Pass Road, Virginia Creek Settlement is an excellent place to rest. While it’s not located inside Yosemite, it’s a great option if you’re passing through the area en route to Lake Tahoe. The property sits beside a peaceful creek, offering a cozy, scenic environment that feels refreshingly remote.
Rooms are priced under $90 per night with two large beds. Shared bathrooms and showers are spotless, and hot water flows reliably. The property features private cabins and outdoor grills, creating a rustic camping vibe similar to “glamping” but with much greater comfort and convenience.
It’s also conveniently located for visiting Mono Lake, one of the most unique and photogenic natural attractions in the Eastern Sierra.
Yosemite Southgate Hotel and Suites
If you prefer a more comfortable and accessible stay, the Yosemite Southgate Hotel and Suites in Oakhurst is a top pick. Located just 1 hour and 20 minutes from Yosemite Valley, it’s ideal for travelers who value both comfort and proximity.
Rooms are spacious and well-maintained, featuring a clean bathroom, separate sink area, and even a bathtub for soaking after long hikes. Additional amenities include a refrigerator, microwave, swimming pool, and jacuzzi.
The price is around $180 per night, which is reasonable considering the facilities and inclusion of a buffet breakfast. If Yosemite Valley lodges are fully booked, this hotel serves as an excellent alternative.
Where to Eat
Whoa Nellie Deli
At the eastern end of Tioga Pass Road sits Whoa Nellie Deli, a hidden gem attached to a Mobil gas station. Don’t be fooled by its unassuming exterior — this place is famous among road-trippers for its hearty portions and unexpectedly delicious meals.
A Lake Tahoe Airbnb host recommended it, describing it as “a gas station restaurant that’s surprisingly amazing,” and indeed, the food did not disappoint. Generous servings, flavorful dishes, and a laid-back local vibe make it the perfect stop for anyone traveling between Yosemite and Bridgeport.
Whoa Nellie Deli: 22 Vista Point Dr, Lee Vining, CA 93541
China Delight Restaurant
If you’re staying in Oakhurst, China Delight Restaurant is just a short walk from the Yosemite Southgate Hotel. Known for its large portions, affordable prices, and bold flavors, it’s a favorite among hungry travelers.
Opening Hours
- Open Daily: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Closed on Tuesdays
China Delight Restaurant: 40484 CA-41, Oakhurst, CA 93644
Final Thoughts
Yosemite National Park is a place where you can experience the grandeur and beauty of nature simultaneously. The magnificent scenery from Tunnel View, the awe before the Giant Sequoias, and the rest in a comfortable accommodation will make your Yosemite trip even more special. If you are planning a visit to Yosemite, I hope you will check out these spots and that this guide has been helpful in your travel planning.
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