State Highway 33 – Wheeler Gorge Tunnels

Built: 1931
Location: Wheeler Gorge – approximately eight miles north of Ojai

These tunnels were constructed as a part of the Maricopa Highway, then US 399, in 1931. They allow the highway to pass through a rather narrow section of Wheeler Gorge without really sharp curves. The northern tunnels are the most interesting as, heading from the south, you pass through a tunnel, then a bridge, another tunnel, and another final bridge.

1942 USGS map showing Wheeler Gorge. Tunnels are marked by the three TAA42 notations along the roadway.

Tunnel #1 – South Matilija Tunnel – 52-0068

Southern tunnel, looking southerly.
Southern tunnel, looking southerly.

Tunnel #2 – Middle and North Matilija Tunnels – 52-0070 and 52-0072

Closeup of the south portal of the middle tunnel.
Closeup of the south portal of the middle tunnel.
Looking through the middle tunnel toward the north tunnel. A bridge separates the two tunnels.
Looking through the middle tunnel toward the north tunnel. A bridge separates the two tunnels.
Inside the middle tunnel, looking north.
Inside the middle tunnel, looking north.

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