Royal Arch: A Grand Canyon Challenge
Discover the Grand Canyon's remote Royal Arch: A challenging hike with a natural rock bridge reward for experienced canyoneers.
Royal Arch is a natural rock bridge carved by water in a remote section of the Grand Canyon. The challenging Royal Arch Loop is considered one of the most difficult established hikes on the South Rim, requiring advanced canyoneering skills and a technical rappel.
A brief summary to Royal Arch
- Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- The Royal Arch Loop is extremely strenuous; only attempt it if you have extensive backpacking and canyoneering experience.
- A permit is required for overnight trips. Secure permits well in advance through the Grand Canyon National Park's backcountry permit system.
- Carry a detailed map, compass, and GPS, and possess strong route-finding skills, as the trail is often faint and unmarked.
- Pack at least a 40-foot rappel rope, webbing, and appropriate gear for a technical rappel.
- Check with the Backcountry Information Center for current water source conditions, and carry ample water or a reliable water filter/purifier.
Getting There
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Car
From Grand Canyon Village, follow signs toward Maswik Lodge, then the park kennel, and onto Rowe Well Road. Follow this road southwest until intersecting FR 328A. Take FR 328A south, then turn east onto FR 328. Continue west on FR 328 until the Havasupai Reservation border. A $25 fee may be required to pass through the reservation. Continue to the South Bass Trailhead. Note: A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the rough, unpaved road. Check road conditions before travel.
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Walking
From the South Bass Trailhead, the Royal Arch Loop begins with a descent on the South Bass Trail. After approximately 1.4 miles, turn west onto the Esplanade. Follow the faint path across the Esplanade, marked by cairns. The route then descends into Royal Arch Canyon. Be prepared for challenging terrain, including scrambling and the need to bypass pour-offs. Note: This is a strenuous hike requiring off-trail navigation skills.
Discover more about Royal Arch
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rainbow Rim Trail
23.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Rim Trail in Kaibab National Forest, where stunning views and serene hiking await outdoor enthusiasts.
Masonic Grand Canyon Degree Memorial
30.2 km
Discover the historical significance and stunning views at the Masonic Grand Canyon Degree Memorial in Grand Canyon Village, Arizona.
Maswik Gift Shop
31.7 km
Explore unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at Maswik Gift Shop in Grand Canyon Village, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
1.5 Mile Resthouse
31.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of the 1.5 Mile Resthouse at Grand Canyon, a perfect stop for rest and rejuvenation amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Havasupai Garden Visitor Information Station
31.8 km
Discover the Grand Canyon's hidden gems at the Havasupai Garden Visitor Information Station, your gateway to adventure and natural beauty.
Havasupai Garden Ranger Station
31.8 km
Explore the Havasupai Garden Ranger Station, your essential guide to the stunning trails and natural beauty of Grand Canyon National Park.
Bright Angel Lodge
31.8 km
Discover the charm and history of Bright Angel Lodge, your perfect base for exploring the majestic Grand Canyon and its breathtaking views.
Grand Canyon South Rim
31.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and geological wonders of the Grand Canyon South Rim, a stunning natural landscape waiting to be discovered.
Colter Hall
32.0 km
Experience the Grand Canyon from Colter Hall, a budget-friendly student dormitory perfect for adventurers seeking both comfort and community.
El Tovar Hotel
32.1 km
Discover the historic El Tovar Hotel, where elegant accommodations meet breathtaking views at the Grand Canyon's edge.
Hopi House
32.1 km
Explore Hopi House at the Grand Canyon, a cultural landmark showcasing the artistry and traditions of the Hopi tribe amidst stunning natural beauty.
Grand Canyon
32.1 km
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El Cristo Rey Catholic Church
32.2 km
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Grand Canyon Railway
32.2 km
Experience the Grand Canyon like never before aboard the historic Grand Canyon Railway, where adventure and scenic beauty come together.
Verkamp's Visitor Center
32.2 km
Discover the wonders of the Grand Canyon at Verkamp's Visitor Center, your first stop for history, insights, and breathtaking views.
Unmissable attractions to see
South Bass Trailhead
7.0 km
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Shinumo Falls
10.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Shinumo Falls at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, a hidden oasis perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Grand Canyon National Park
12.4 km
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Havasu Canyon
17.8 km
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Point Sublime
18.2 km
Experience unparalleled Grand Canyon views from Point Sublime, a remote North Rim overlook offering solitude and breathtaking panoramas.
Intersection of Havasu Falls Trail and Havasu Creek Trail
21.5 km
Explore the breathtaking intersection of Havasu Falls and Havasu Creek Trail, where turquoise waters meet stunning canyon landscapes in Arizona.
Havasupai Tributary
22.0 km
Discover the turquoise waterfalls and ancient traditions of the Havasupai, a hidden paradise deep within the Grand Canyon.
Main Havasupai Rangers Office
22.0 km
Start your Havasupai adventure at the Rangers Office: Permits, safety info, and a glimpse into Havasupai culture await!
Bellezas de Arizona
22.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and serene beauty of Bellezas de Arizona, a must-visit tourist attraction in Supai, Arizona.
Little Navajo Falls
22.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Little Navajo Falls, a hidden gem along Havasu Creek in the heart of the Havasupai Reservation.
Fifty Foot Falls
23.0 km
Experience the breathtaking Fifty Foot Falls in Supai, Arizona - a stunning natural wonder in the heart of the Grand Canyon region.
Carbonate Canyon
23.0 km
Explore Carbonate Canyon in Havasupai: stunning rock formations, rich history, and the serene beauty of the Arizona wilderness.
Havasupai Trailhead
23.2 km
Embark on an unforgettable backpacking adventure to the turquoise waterfalls of Havasu Canyon from the remote Havasupai Trailhead.
Havasupai Campground Rangers Office
23.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and cultural heritage of Havasupai Campground, a hidden treasure in the Grand Canyon's stunning wilderness.
Havasupai Campground
23.4 km
Experience the magic of Havasupai: Turquoise waterfalls, stunning canyons, and a connection to the Havasupai Tribe's ancient heritage.
Essential places to dine
Fry Bread Tent
23.0 km
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Maswik Lodge
31.7 km
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Maswik Food Court
31.7 km
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Fred Harvey Tavern
31.8 km
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Harvey House Cafe
31.8 km
Experience delightful dining at Harvey House Cafe in Grand Canyon Village, where good food meets stunning natural beauty.
Arizona Steakhouse
31.9 km
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El Tovar cocktail lounge
32.1 km
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El Tovar Dining Room
32.1 km
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Grand Canyon Beer Garden
32.1 km
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Yavapai Lodge
33.6 km
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Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall
33.6 km
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Yavapai Tavern
33.7 km
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Deli in the Pines
35.9 km
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Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room
36.0 km
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Wagon Wheel Saloon
38.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Havasupai Trading Company (Market)
21.7 km
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The Havasupai Tribal Cafe
21.7 km
Experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality of The Havasupai Tribal Cafe, where tradition meets breathtaking Grand Canyon vistas.
Wildlife Enterprises
21.7 km
Explore the beauty of Wildlife Enterprises in Supai, AZ—a unique blend of shopping and nature in the heart of the Grand Canyon region.
Havasu Falls
23.0 km
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Beaver Falls
26.7 km
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The Fountain
31.8 km
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Bright Angel Gift Shop
31.9 km
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Grand Canyon Conservancy
32.2 km
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Xanterra Garage
32.4 km
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Canyon Closet - Grand Canyon School PTA
32.4 km
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Grand Canyon Community Recreation Center
32.5 km
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North Country HealthCare - Grand Canyon
33.3 km
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Grand Canyon Outfitters
33.6 km
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General Store
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Grand Canyon Village Market & Deli
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Roughrider Saloon
36.0 km
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Kaibab Lodge
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Kaibab Plateau
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Kaibab Camper Village
60.9 km
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Jacob Lake Inn
61.8 km
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Indian Fry Bread
61.9 km
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Chevron
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Buckskin Tavern
88.9 km
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Adria's Restaurant
95.4 km
Discover the flavors of Kanab at Adria's Restaurant, a delightful bar and grill serving delicious meals in a cozy atmosphere.
Iron Horse Restaurant
95.4 km
Experience the best barbecue, seafood, and steaks in Kanab, Utah, at Iron Horse Restaurant—where flavor meets charm.
Houston's Trail's End Restaurant
95.5 km
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Chuckwagon Cookouts
95.5 km
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Rocking V Cafe
95.5 km
Experience the unique flavors of Kanab at Rocking V Cafe, where delicious cuisine and warm hospitality await.
Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen
95.5 km
Discover the flavors of vegetarian cuisine at Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen, a charming eatery in Kanab, Utah, perfect for every meal of the day.
Parry Lodge
95.5 km
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