The process of dynamical tunneling between local mode states is analyzed within the Bohmian approach to quantum mechanics. A number of quantum trajectories are followed for both a coupled Morse potential and the Barbanis potential. The superposition of nearly degenerate eigenstates leads to the formation of numerous permanent nodes concentrated near the potential valley. Around these nodes, vortices are evident on the flux map. Quantum trajectories can be attracted by a vortex and their velocity and kinetic energy will be significantly changed as they spiral around the vortex. However, trajectories starting remotely from vortices reflect more realistically the transition between a pair of localized states. These quantum trajectories can go through one or more regions where the potential energy is higher than the total energy. Hence, barrier tunneling accompanies dynamical tunneling. (C) 2003 American Institute of Physics.