macOS Tahoe 26.4: Open/Save column view stuck at root

This sounds like a regression bug introduced in the Tahoe 26.4 update. It's good to know that multiple users are experiencing the same issue, which makes it more likely Apple will prioritize a fix.

Since you've already tried the common troubleshooting steps, here are a few additional things worth checking:

1. Try resetting the Finder's preference files more thoroughly. You can try removing com.apple.finder.plist, com.apple.navservices.state.plist, and also com.apple.finder.sidebarlist.plist from ~/Library/Preferences/. Then restart your Mac.

2. Check if any third-party apps that add Finder extensions might be causing conflicts. Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Extensions > Finder and see if anything is installed. Disabling them temporarily might help identify a conflict.

3. Create a new test user account and see if the column view works properly there. If it does, the issue is likely tied to your user account's preferences.

4. Since List view works as a workaround, you could also try setting List view as the default for all Finder windows in Finder > Settings > General.

5. Keep an eye on Apple's release notes for any upcoming updates. If enough users report this through Feedback Assistant, it should make it onto Apple's radar for a quick fix.

Definitely report it through Feedback Assistant if you haven't already, especially since it seems to affect multiple users.

Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following; 

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2:  if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode.  This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

 OT 

JP.Santos wrote:

Hi everyone,

I’m experiencing a persistent UI bug that started immediately after updating to macOS Tahoe 26.4. This feature was working perfectly fine in the previous version.

The issue:

In Open/Save dialogs (Column View), Finder remembers the correct folder but the viewport is stuck at the root. I have to manually scroll right every time to reach the active column.

System: macOS Tahoe 26.4 (Issue not present in 26.3).

What I’ve already tried:•

Deleting com.apple.finder.plist and com.apple.navservices.state.plist.

• Resetting Saved Application State.

• Disabling "Group by" and toggling scroll bar settings.

• Resizing the dialog window.

Is anyone else seeing this regression since the 26.4 update?

Try List view and compare your results...

The current stable release of Tahoe including bug fixes, security updates is macOS 26.4.1 - I would start there

Keep your Mac up to date - Apple Support

Keep your Mac up to date - Apple Support

I can replicate this (there have been other posts with the same issue, as well). Set the dialog box to List view as a workaround:

Bugs can be reported to Apple here:

Feedback - macOS - Apple

product26 wrote:

Exact same issue here for me running 26.5

To be proactive you can file a bug report / submit your feedback here: Feedback - macOS - Apple

(make a note of the current 26.5 in your write up;

the "operating system version" choice notoriously lags behind the most current OS.)

JMF wrote:

Still bugged in 26.5.2.

I'm shocked.

No, I'm not. The workaround of List view and the option to send feedback remain the only viable options. Given that macOS 27 Golden Gate has been announced, I would not expect many/any bug fixes for macOS 26.

Still bugged in 26.5.2.

I am also having this exact issue since the 26.5 update. It's very frustrating, and changing to List View isn't a great workaround because I'm working in multiple folders at once and need the columns view to work so that I can maintain my workflow.

Same problem for me in column view after updating to 26.4.1.

List view works, just not column view.

Exact same issue here for me running 26.5

Exact same issue here. Running macOS 26.5 (25F71) and this bug is present. Very annoying.

leroydouglas wrote:

JThe current stable release of Tahoe including bug fixes, security updates is macOS 26.4.1

As of 5/16/2026 (in my part of the world) it's macOS 26.5.

Still an issue in 26.5.1.