Royal Arches (Yosemite) facts for kids
The Royal Arches are amazing natural rock formations in Yosemite National Park, California. Imagine giant stone arches carved into a cliff! These arches are part of a huge granite wall that stands tall above the beautiful Yosemite Valley. They are found below a peak called North Dome.
Discovering the Royal Arches
The Royal Arches are located on the north side of the Yosemite Valley. They are northeast of the famous Majestic Hotel (previously known as the Ahwahnee Hotel). Right next to the Royal Arches, you can find the beautiful Royal Arch Cascade waterfall.
How These Stone Arches Formed
These incredible arches are created by a natural process called exfoliation. This happens when layers of rock slowly peel away, much like an onion. Over thousands of years, this process carves out the unique arch shapes you see today. The Royal Arches are a perfect example of nature's power to shape the landscape.
Rock Climbing Adventures
The Royal Arches area is very popular for rock climbing. Many climbers come here to test their skills. The climbing area stretches from a spot called Church Bowl all the way to Washington Column.
One of the most famous climbing routes in the world is found here. It's called the "Royal Arches Route." This route is so well-known that it's featured in a historic book called Fifty Classic Climbs of North America. Climbers from all over the world dream of tackling these challenging walls.
