Hiking to Grand Canyon's Royal Arch

Join photographer Elias Butler on this trek to one of the Grand Canyon's hidden gems.

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grand canyon royal arch tonto trail

The junction of the South Bass Trail and the Tonto Trail. Hikers will want to turn west here.

Grand Canyons Royal Arch Tyndall Dome, the North Rim

The photographer approaching his first camp with views of Tyndall Dome, the North Rim.

GC Royal Arch Colorado River butler

Walthenburg Rapids and the Colorado River. The Tonto Trail skirts the edge of the cliff.

gc royal arch toltec beach butler

Toltec Beach. Good camping here on sandy flat spots that are sometimes used by river parties.

gc royal arch toltec beach butler

Toltec Beach. Hikers should leave their packs here and then head downstream to see Elves Chasm.

GC Royal Arch creek butler

The mouth of Royal Arch Creek, and the entrance to the grotto named Elves Chasm.

GC Royal Arch elves chasm butler

Elves Chasm. To get to this spot, hikers must head west along a cairned path from Toltec Beach.

gc royal arch butler

Royal Arch, the natural bridge that marks the highlight of the loop.

Grand Canyon Royal Arch butler

A good place to camp for the lHeading out from Royal Arch.