Arch Rock

Arch Rock is a natural opening along Alum Cave Trail, reached by a winding stone stairway that passes underneath the rock and climbs through it. It is the only rock formation in the park that visitors can hike through. That short passage is the reason to make this a destination.

From Alum Cave Trailhead on Newfound Gap Road, the arch is 1.4 miles each way. The trail follows old-growth forest and mountain streams. If you turn around at Arch Rock, you avoid the considerably steeper climb beyond it toward Alum Cave Bluffs and Mount Le Conte.

Trailhead parking is limited and often full. The park suggests considering a shuttle or another hike; a parking tag is required if you leave your car for more than 15 minutes. There is a seasonal pit toilet at the trailhead.

The stairs and footlog crossings are narrow pinch points, so uphill and downhill hikers may need to take turns. Rain can make the rocky approach muddy and slippery. In winter, ice and falling icicles are possible. The route has steep sections, rocks and roots, and isn't accessible for visitors with limited mobility; pets aren't allowed.

For a photo, include the footlog and the steps as they lead into the dark opening. Pause to let other hikers through before stopping on the narrow stairs.

The steps can look like Civilian Conservation Corps work from the 1930s, but the park trail crew built them in 2015 and 2016. A likely explanation is freeze-thaw weathering: softer rock beneath a more resistant layer gradually wore away.