Triumphal Arch, Grand Canyon Colorado River

The Grand Canyon National Park is renowned as being one of the world's top natural wonders, but within its boundaries are some of the most incredible formations that are unique to this region. One of these is the Triumphal Arch, which sits high above the raging Colorado River, many feet below. It is a rock formation that usually only rafters and backcountry hikers see.

When doing backcountry hiking or rafting in the Grand Canyon National Park, one is sure to see a lot more than the average tourist. In fact, the Colorado River is home to many constantly being designed features that many miss or are not aware of. The Triumphal Arch is one of these, sitting so high above the river that it frames the area's incredible beauty.

At the two hundred and fifty-seventh mile of the Colorado River, huge sandstone cliffs rise high on either side. Rapids are strong and many twists and turns make focusing above the river, for rafters, not always possible, so it is very easy to miss the massive one hundred foot arch that sits, almost suspended by fresh air, high above their heads.

The arch was originally discovered by US Geological Survey mappers, who were on an expedition to finish mapping the Grand Canyon and sections of the river. In 1923 these explorers nicknamed the arch. The name stuck and has been recorded on many topographical, as well as ordinance maps.

Today the majority of visitors are backcountry hikers, who wander across the landscape looking for something unique, something different. Many of them never get close enough to notice the arch, but for those who have read their maps, the Triumphal Arch is one of the park's must see splendors.