Royal Arches

Royal Arches is a natural stone formation in Yosemite National Park featuring multiple stacked granite arches created by erosion. Water seepage and freeze-thaw cycles have carved away softer rock layers over millennia, leaving behind the harder granite structures that form the distinctive layered appearance today.

The arches formed over millions of years as granite masses were exposed and shaped by natural weathering processes. The distinctive stacked appearance developed primarily during the last 10,000 years following glacial retreat, when water infiltration and freeze-thaw cycles became the dominant forces carving the rock.

Geologists and researchers regularly visit Royal Arches to study rock formations and document the ongoing natural processes affecting the structure.

Reach this formation via marked hiking trails in the park, ideally visiting in morning light when the sun illuminates the stone arches best. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the trails can be sunny and steep in sections.

The structure exhibits specific patterns of erosion that differentiate it from other natural arches in California, making it valuable for geological studies.

Location: California

GPS coordinates: 37.74840,-119.56900

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:06