These coordinates may be more accurate, N
37°46.598 x W 119° 33.221, but you should be able to find the arch
without a GPSr by reading the trail description below.
You are embarking on an adventure to remember! The Indian Ridge
Arch is a rare and special thing as natural arches are very
uncommon, especially those made of granite. This arch is actually
one of two arches in Yosemite. The other arch is submerged 8 to 10
feet in a deep pool of the Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River, near
the Tuolumne Lodge, located in of course… Tuolumne Meadows. The
Indian Ridge Arch was formed when highly fractured rock broke away
from below. The arch is about 20 feet long and about a foot thick
at its thinnest part.
Indian Ridge Arch
The trail to Indian ridge is actually the main trail to North Dome.
If you choose to continue on, you’ll be rewarded with some awesome
views of the Yosemite Valley, Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, Illilouette
Fall, the YNP high country, and the famous Half Dome!
Half Dome – a view from the “North Rim Trail”
You start your hike in an almost pure stand of lodgepole pines; the
pines are a favorite food of the Park's porcupines. Hence, the
aptly named Porcupine Creek and Porcupine Flat. This is the last
place to filter water if you carry a water purifier, otherwise pack
at least 1.5 quarts per person. The trail is well marked and
generally shaded by a mix of tall lodgepole pines and red firs.
After about three miles you’ll reach the junction of a spur trail
signed for Indian Rock. The trail follows the ridge about .75 miles
to the crest and the arch.
Trail Map (Click Photo to Enlarge.)
Trail Profile (Click Photo to Enlarge.)
To get credit for the find, please post an original photo of you
and the arch. Bogus logs will be deleted.