Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes
Most likely you’ve seen photos of this famous Cypress Tree Tunnel on Instagram and wondered where this place was and wanted the best tips on how to get the best shot here!
We’ve visited the tree tunnel many times and are here to give you some of our best tips!
Quick Summary:
- Location on Google Maps
- Golden light at sunset, but might be crowded
- Early morning light with fog is a great second option
- Make a trip to the rest of Point Reyes, if you’re heading out here
- Save offline map on Google Maps
Table Of Contents
How To Get To The Tree Tunnel
Using Google Maps, it’s pretty straightforward navigating your way to the Cypress Tree Tunnel, but make sure to slow down as you get near since there aren’t any signs signaling where the trees are. My first time here I drove by the tunnel and had to do a u-turn to get back to it.
Also, make sure to save an offline map of the whole Point Reyes area since there will be a chance you'll lose mobile reception once you drive into this area.
Once you get here, there is a small lot off to the side where the rangers encourage you to park your vehicle, rather than on the side of the road. When I went though, there were definitely people parking on the side of the road.
You know that you’re in the right place if you see a sign with the North District Operations Center on it and also if you see a giant cypress tree tunnel. :)
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Photography Tips
Since the tunnel is located in Point Reyes, it’s incredibly difficult to time the weather as certain days are whiteout foggy and other days are clear and sunny.
If you’re looking for the best chance of good lighting, I’d recommend either right before sunrise or golden hour (sunset).
You’ll have a better chance of getting that dreamy, golden light at sunset but also will have to jostle with other photographers.
If you don’t want to deal with people in your shots, being there right before the sun rises is a great option. You’ll also have a decent chance at getting that foggy, dreamy shot.
If you a wide angle lens, you’ll be able to capture all the trees in your shot, giving it a grand look.
If you have a telephoto lens, you can play around with some interesting compression shots.
For portrait lenses, some dreamy bokeh shots are always a good idea.
I’ve seen some drone shots with interesting angles, just be careful with all the tree branches. Most likely, drones aren’t allowed here either, so use your own judgement if you decide to fly through the tunnel.
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History
Monterey cypress trees were planted in 1930 and grew to form a long, scenic tunnel leading to a building that houses the Point Reyes National Seashore North District Operations Center.
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