Royal Arch Cascade

Royal Arch Cascade descends the north wall of Yosemite Valley as multiple thin streams of water flowing alongside massive granite formations. The waterfall creates delicate threads that follow the rocky surface as they drop down the steep cliff.

The name comes from the adjacent Royal Arches formation, identified by members of the Mariposa Battalion during their 1800s exploration of Yosemite Valley. This naming from that era established the waterfall's identity for later generations of visitors.

Native people of the region called this waterfall Sho-ko-ya, which refers to its basket-like appearance. This name connects it to the nearby North Dome, known to them as To-ko-ya or Basket Dome.

The best time to visit is between November and April when water flow is strongest. Access is easy through a short walk of about five minutes from the Ahwahnee Hotel parking lot.

The waterfall is fed by a basin smaller than one square mile of solid granite bedrock, which means it typically runs dry by early summer. This short seasonal existence makes it a fleeting sight that only early-season visitors can experience at full flow.

GPS coordinates: 37.74960,-119.57104

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:46