Indian Ridge Natural Arch via Porcupine Creek Trail

Difficulty
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Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-7h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
16.9 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
722 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

Immerse yourself in Yosemite’s high country along the Indian Ridge Natural Arch via Porcupine Creek Trail. This epic excursion reveals up close and personal views of several unique geological features including the Natural Arch and Half Dome, as well as sweeping panoramas of Yosemite Valley.

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Route Description for Indian Ridge Natural Arch via Porcupine Creek Trail

The Indian Ridge Natural Arch via Porcupine Creek Trail is a wonderful day hike through Yosemite’s high country that reveals jaw-dropping vistas. Get a workout in and let vertigo-inducing sights humble you. Note: much of the terrain is made up of exposed granite, which can be unbearably warm in the summer months, so make sure to wear sun protection! Additionally, the terrain becomes slippery after rainfall, so exercise caution. The National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for additional information.

Embark on your adventure along the Indian Ridge Natural Arch via Porcupine Creek Trail from the trailhead of Tioga Road. From here, the North Dome Trail will guide you south through meadowlands that are abundant with wildflowers in the summer months. Follow the path over Porcupine Creek and admire the expansive vistas of the granite terrain. Eventually, you will reach the Indian Arch Trail and it up to the natural arch, which also exposes wicked vistas of North Dome. Head back down to the North Dome Trail and follow the route down to North Dome.

From the dome, you will be overwhelmed by Half Dome looming above and the canyon below. Admire the postcard-worthy panorama, then head back the way you came to the trailhead.

Getting to the Indian Ridge Natural Arch via Porcupine Creek Trail Trailhead

The Indian Ridge Natural Arch via Porcupine Creek Trail departs from the Porcupine Creek Trailhead off Tioga Pass Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping, Wilderness Permit Required.

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Indian Ridge Natural Arch via Porcupine Creek Trail Elevation Graph

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Indian Ridge Natural Arch via Porcupine Creek Trail Reviews

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