Indian Rock Arch
Yosemite's only natural arch, offering a unique granite formation and framed views of Half Dome via a scenic hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Indian Rock Arch
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yosemite's only natural arch, offering a unique granite formation and framed views of Half Dome via a scenic hike.
"A must-see natural wonder with a perfectly framed view of Half Dome!"
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Carry plenty of water
Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated. There are no water sources on the trail. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indian Rock Arch
Porcupine Creek Trail
Yosemite's only natural arch, offering a unique granite formation and framed views of Half Dome.
Framed Views of Half Dome
Indian Rock Arch
The arch perfectly frames the iconic Half Dome, creating a postcard-worthy photo opportunity.
Porcupine Creek Trail
Trailhead to Indian Rock Arch
A scenic 6-mile roundtrip hike with moderate elevation gain, offering shade and beautiful forest scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trailhead Access & Timing
Navigating the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Carry plenty of water
Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated. There are no water sources on the trail. :droplet:
🗺️ Download offline maps
Cell service can be spotty. Ensure you have your route downloaded for navigation. :iphone:
📸 Capture the framed view
The arch perfectly frames Half Dome – a must-have photo! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Carry plenty of water
Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated. There are no water sources on the trail. :droplet:
🗺️ Download offline maps
Cell service can be spotty. Ensure you have your route downloaded for navigation. :iphone:
📸 Capture the framed view
The arch perfectly frames Half Dome – a must-have photo! :camerawithflash:
🤫 Respect the 'Native American' Rock
Some visitors prefer this name; be mindful of local sensitivities. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Indian Rock Arch for its unique geological formation and the stunning, framed views of Half Dome. The moderate hike through scenic forest is also a highlight, though some note the trail can be rocky and require good footwear. Parking can be a challenge during peak times.
"What an amazing rock formation. It is about 2.6 mi from Porcupine creek trailhead. Then there is a marker for the junction, the hike to the rock is just 0.3 mi."
Dex
"There is beautiful stone Arch on the way to the mountain peak. It's nice place to climb on or have some shade on a sunny day."
Joseph Rybakov
""Um excuse me, its 'Native American' Rock these days" - lol"
Brendan Crotty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Indian Rock Arch is accessed via the Porcupine Creek Trailhead, located off Tioga Road. The hike to the arch is approximately 3 miles one-way from the trailhead, making it a 6-mile roundtrip adventure. 
The trailhead is generally well-marked along Tioga Road. However, it's always a good idea to have your GPS coordinates or a map handy, as cell service can be unreliable in Yosemite.
Parking can be limited, especially during peak season and on weekends. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Public transportation options within Yosemite National Park are limited and do not typically service the Porcupine Creek Trailhead directly. Driving your own vehicle or using a ride-sharing service (if available and feasible) is the most common way to access this area.
The Porcupine Creek Trailhead is accessible by standard vehicles. The road leading to it is generally paved and well-maintained.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a valid Yosemite National Park entrance pass is required to access the park and its trailheads, including Porcupine Creek. Passes can be purchased online in advance or at park entrance stations.
For a day hike to Indian Rock Arch, a standard park entrance pass is sufficient. However, if you plan to backpack or camp in the vicinity, you will need to obtain a wilderness permit.
Yosemite National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, individual trailheads and visitor services may have specific operating hours.
The entrance fee for a private vehicle is typically around $35 and is valid for 7 days. Check the official Yosemite National Park website for the most current pricing.
While reservations are not typically required for day-use access to Indian Rock Arch itself, Yosemite National Park may implement a reservation system during peak seasons or for specific areas. It's crucial to check the park's official website for any current reservation requirements before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Indian Rock Arch is considered moderate. It's approximately 6 miles roundtrip with about 675 feet of elevation gain, involving some rocky and uneven terrain.
Plan for about 3-4 hours for the roundtrip hike, allowing time to enjoy the arch and the views. This can vary depending on your hiking pace and how long you spend at the arch.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Porcupine Creek Trailhead. It's advisable to use them before starting your hike, as there are no facilities along the trail itself.
Yes, the area around Indian Rock Arch offers a beautiful setting for a picnic. Remember to pack out all your trash and practice Leave No Trace principles.
You'll get stunning, framed views of Half Dome and the Yosemite Valley from the arch. It's a unique perspective of these iconic landmarks.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The best time for photography is generally during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. This provides soft, warm light and can create dramatic shadows. Midday sun can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the arch and its surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating Half Dome. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The most popular photo spot is looking through the arch itself, framing Half Dome. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to find your unique shot.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in Yosemite National Park, including at Indian Rock Arch, to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
Harsh midday sun, potential crowds, and the need for a steady hand on uneven terrain can be challenges. Planning your visit for optimal light and being patient can help.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Emphasize the unique aspect of seeing Yosemite's only natural arch and the framed view of Half Dome. This can add an element of wonder and discovery for kids. Keep the pace relaxed and take breaks as needed. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to keep the park pristine for future visitors.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Day-Trippers
For solo hikers, it's always wise to inform someone of your hiking plans, carry a reliable navigation tool (like an offline map on your phone), and be aware of your surroundings. The trail is generally safe, but being prepared is key. The opportunity to capture stunning photographs and enjoy a peaceful moment in nature makes this a perfect day trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Indian Rock Arch
The surrounding granite formations in Yosemite are primarily composed of granodiorite, a type of igneous rock that is very resistant to erosion but susceptible to these slow, persistent natural forces. The specific orientation of the rock and the presence of pre-existing fractures played a crucial role in the arch's formation.
Understanding the geological processes behind Indian Rock Arch adds another layer of appreciation for its beauty and rarity. It's a reminder of the dynamic geological history of Yosemite and the slow, powerful artistry of the natural world.
Hiking the Porcupine Creek Trail
While the trail is generally well-maintained, expect some uneven terrain and rocky sections. The elevation gain is gradual but consistent, making it a good workout. Many hikers find the shade provided by the trees to be a welcome respite, especially on warmer days.
It's important to be prepared for this hike. Carrying sufficient water is crucial, as there are no water sources available on the trail. Wearing sturdy hiking boots will enhance your comfort and stability. Downloading an offline map is also a wise precaution, as cell service can be intermittent in this part of the park.
Capturing the Iconic View
+1To get the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The soft, warm light at these times can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the rock formations. Midday sun can be quite harsh and may lead to blown-out highlights and deep shadows.
Experiment with your composition. While the classic shot through the arch is a must, try different angles and focal lengths. You can use a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of both the arch and Half Dome, or a telephoto lens to isolate details. Remember to bring a sturdy tripod if you plan to shoot in low light conditions or for sharper images.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit