A significant and rapidly expanding crack has been discovered on the iconic Royal Arches cliff within California's Yosemite National Park, leading park officials to implement immediate safety measures. The concerning fissure, located on the western side of the formation near the popular Super Slide climbing route, has forced the temporary closure of several well-used trails due to the heightened risk of rockfall.
An Unusual and Growing Fissure
The crack, which has been named 'Super Natural', was initially spotted by a rock climber back in 2023. At the time of its discovery, the fissure in the massive granite face was approximately an inch wide. According to recent reports, it has since widened dramatically to about four inches, indicating active and ongoing geological movement.
Jesse McGahey, a geologist and climbing ranger for Yosemite, was dispatched to assess the situation. He described the phenomenon as highly unusual, noting he could hear the cliff "cracking like a frozen lake that wasn't consolidated". McGahey, who also serves as a climbing program manager, emphasised the unique nature of the event, stating that the way pieces of rock were "rattling down the crack without touching it" was something the park's lead geologist had never witnessed in 15 years of service at Yosemite.
Safety Closures and Visitor Warnings
In response to the potential danger, the National Park Service has enacted a temporary closure of the area to ensure visitor safety. The closed sections include the trail to the Super Slide itself, as well as the popular routes Serenity Crack/Sons of Yesterday and all routes in between, such as Peruvian Flake West and the Rhombus Wall.
Park officials have maintained a cautious stance since the crack was first identified. When the initial closure was announced in 2023, their investigation confirmed that the crack had partially detached a large pillar of rock and that active cracking was occurring. Rangers continually advise visitors to remain aware of their surroundings and to report any witnessed rockfalls immediately.
Rockfalls in Yosemite's History
While rockfalls are a natural and common geological process in Yosemite, this particular event stands out due to its unusual characteristics. The National Park Service defines rockfalls as the detachment and rapid downward movement of rock. Over the past 150 years, the park has documented more than 1,000 such events. The year 2024 saw 42 documented rockfalls, which the park service classified as a "relatively quiet year".
Officials have confirmed that they will continue to closely monitor the crack west of the Royal Arches adjacent to the Super Slide climbing route. The temporary closures will remain in effect while the area undergoes further investigation to assess the long-term stability of the cliff face and ensure public safety.
