Yosemite’s Royal Arches Crack Sparks Global Travel Concerns: Air Canada and U.S. Airlines Brace for Decline as Hotels Face Uncertainty

Published on November 24, 2025

Yosemite’s Royal Arches crack has sparked global travel concerns, with Air Canada and U.S. airlines bracing for a potential decline in international visitors as hotels face uncertainty. The iconic Yosemite National Park, renowned for its stunning granite cliffs and natural beauty, is facing an escalating rockfall risk due to an actively widening crack in the Royal Arches formation. First noticed in 2023, the fissure has rapidly expanded, leading park officials to close several popular trails and climbing routes in the area. This development has sent ripples through the tourism industry, particularly affecting airlines serving international markets like Canada and the U.K., who are now preparing for a dip in bookings to the U.S. Meanwhile, the hospitality sector, heavily reliant on visitors to the park, is also anticipating a decrease in revenue as fewer tourists visit Yosemite amidst the safety concerns. As the situation unfolds, travelers and tourism businesses alike are adjusting to the potential impact of this natural hazard, while those planning a trip to Yosemite are advised to stay updated on trail closures and take precautions when visiting.

Yosemite’s Royal Arches Crack Sparks Global Travel Concerns: Air Canada and U.S. Airlines Brace for Decline as Hotels Face Uncertainty

Yosemite National Park, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the United States, is facing an escalating safety concern that could have ripple effects across the travel and tourism industries. The Royal Arches, a majestic granite formation, has developed a dangerous crack that poses a serious rockfall risk to climbers, hikers, and other visitors. As the crack continues to widen, the park has temporarily closed several popular trails and climbing routes. This development has sent shockwaves through the tourism sector, with airlines, particularly Air Canada and U.S. carriers, preparing for a potential drop in international travel, especially from Canada and Europe. Meanwhile, local hotels and other hospitality services are bracing for an uncertain future as visitors reconsider their plans to visit Yosemite.

In this article, we will explore how this unfolding crisis is affecting the global tourism landscape, with a particular focus on the airline and hospitality industries. We’ll also provide essential travel tips for visitors planning a trip to Yosemite, flight details, and the impact this situation may have on your travel plans.

The Growing Rockfall Risk at Yosemite: A Travel Alert for Tourists

Yosemite National Park is no stranger to rockfalls, a natural occurrence where rocks break off from steep cliffs and tumble to the ground. However, the recent discovery of an active crack in the Royal Arches has raised alarm among park officials and visitors alike. The crack, which was first spotted by climbers in August 2023, is widening at an alarming rate. Park officials have reported that the crack could potentially lead to a major rockfall, posing a significant risk to anyone in the vicinity.

As of late 2024, the crack has grown to nearly four inches wide, and there are concerns that the rock pillar above the crack could detach at any moment. This has led to the closure of several popular trails and climbing routes in the area, including the Super Slide and Serenity Crack. These closures are precautionary measures to reduce the risk of injury or worse. While the natural beauty of Yosemite continues to draw millions of visitors each year, the threat of rockfalls is a serious issue that tourists must be aware of.

For visitors planning a trip to Yosemite, it’s essential to stay updated on the park’s official website for real-time information about trail and route closures. This is particularly important for those planning to visit the Royal Arches or nearby areas. If you’re planning to hike or climb in Yosemite, make sure you have the necessary permits and equipment, and always follow safety guidelines issued by park rangers.

Airlines Brace for Decline as International Visitors Rethink Travel Plans

As the safety concerns at Yosemite continue to mount, airlines serving North America and Europe are already beginning to feel the impact. International visitors, particularly from Canada and the United Kingdom, are reconsidering their plans to travel to the U.S. due to the uncertainty surrounding Yosemite’s safety risks. This shift in travel behavior could have serious consequences for airlines that rely heavily on international tourism.

Air Canada, for example, has seen a noticeable decline in bookings to the U.S. in recent months. According to the airline’s recent statements, flight bookings to major U.S. cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles have dropped significantly, a trend that is expected to continue into 2025. Air Canada, which has traditionally seen strong demand for travel to the U.S., is now reassessing its route offerings in light of the declining demand.

U.S. carriers, including Delta, American Airlines, and United, are also feeling the pinch. As international tourism slows, particularly from key European markets like the U.K., airlines are adjusting their flight schedules. In fact, some airlines have already begun to reduce the frequency of flights between major European hubs and the U.S., including routes that serve destinations close to Yosemite.

This drop in demand for international travel could lead to significant financial challenges for airlines. While domestic travel in the U.S. remains strong, the reduction in international tourists means that airlines will need to adjust their marketing strategies and adapt to shifting passenger trends. For tourists planning to fly to Yosemite or nearby areas, it’s important to check for changes in flight availability and plan accordingly.

Impact on Hotels and Hospitality Services: An Uncertain Future for Local Businesses

The tourism sector in and around Yosemite National Park is primarily driven by domestic and international visitors who come to experience the park’s natural beauty. The closure of popular trails and climbing routes, especially those near the Royal Arches, has led to uncertainty for local hotels, lodges, and tour operators. With fewer visitors planning to visit Yosemite due to safety concerns, the hospitality industry is preparing for a drop in revenue.

Hotels and resorts that rely on visitors traveling to Yosemite are particularly vulnerable. According to industry experts, local hotels may see lower occupancy rates as tourists seek alternative destinations. Popular hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton, which have properties near the park, may also face difficulties as tourists reconsider their travel plans. In addition, tour operators that offer guided hiking and climbing experiences in Yosemite may experience cancellations or a decrease in bookings, further affecting the local economy.

While the decline in tourism is a blow to the hospitality industry, some hotels are taking proactive measures to mitigate the impact. Many are offering flexible booking policies and discounts to attract visitors, while others are pivoting to promote alternative outdoor experiences that are less impacted by the rockfall risk. For example, some hotels in the area are encouraging guests to explore other parts of the park that are still open, such as Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, both of which remain accessible to tourists.

If you’re planning to visit Yosemite, it’s essential to book your accommodations well in advance, as the remaining available rooms may fill up quickly. Consider checking with the hotel about their cancellation policies and the current status of the park’s trail closures to ensure a smooth trip.

Travel Tips for Visiting Yosemite Amid Safety Concerns

If you’re still planning to visit Yosemite despite the ongoing safety concerns, there are a few important travel tips to keep in mind. First, always check the official Yosemite National Park website for the latest updates on trail and route closures. Due to the ongoing rockfall risk, certain areas of the park, including Royal Arches and other climbing routes, are temporarily closed. Make sure to have an alternative plan in place if your desired trail is affected by these closures.

Second, consider booking your trip during the off-peak seasons. Yosemite is incredibly popular during the summer months, which can lead to overcrowding. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) not only offers a more peaceful experience but also allows you to avoid the busiest tourist crowds.

Third, always prioritize safety when hiking or climbing in Yosemite. Make sure to carry sufficient water, wear appropriate footwear, and bring a map of the park. If you’re planning to climb or hike in areas near the crack, make sure to follow all safety guidelines provided by park rangers. Additionally, some parts of the park may require permits for specific activities, so be sure to check in advance if your chosen route needs a permit.

Flight Details: Booking Your Trip to Yosemite

If you’re flying to Yosemite, the closest major airports are in San Francisco, Oakland, and Fresno. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is one of the most popular entry points for international travelers, offering direct flights from cities across the world. Air Canada, British Airways, and several U.S. airlines, including Delta and United, provide direct flights to SFO from cities like Toronto, London, and other major international hubs.

From San Francisco, you can take a rental car or a shuttle to reach Yosemite National Park, which is approximately a 4-hour drive away. Alternatively, flights to other regional airports, such as Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), may offer more convenient access for some visitors.

If you’re planning to fly into the U.S. from Canada, keep in mind that Air Canada offers direct flights from major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal to various U.S. destinations, including San Francisco and Los Angeles. However, with the ongoing decline in Canadian tourism to the U.S., some routes may see reduced frequencies or schedule adjustments. It’s always a good idea to check with your airline for the most up-to-date information on flight availability.

For visitors traveling from the U.K. and other European countries, British Airways offers direct flights from London Heathrow to San Francisco, making it a convenient option for international tourists. In addition, United Airlines and American Airlines provide frequent flights between major European cities and the U.S., with connections to destinations near Yosemite.

Navigating the Challenges of Yosemite’s Rockfall Risk

Yosemite National Park is a global treasure, drawing millions of visitors each year. However, the current rockfall risk posed by the widening crack in the Royal Arches formation has introduced an element of uncertainty for tourists planning to visit. Airlines, particularly Air Canada, and U.S. carriers are already feeling the effects of declining international tourism, while the hospitality industry faces challenges as fewer visitors travel to the park.

If you’re still planning a trip to Yosemite, it’s crucial to stay informed about park closures and safety concerns. Make sure to book your accommodations and flights early to secure the best rates, and consider traveling during off-peak seasons to avoid the crowds. With the right preparation and knowledge, your visit to Yosemite can still be a safe and memorable experience.

Yosemite’s Royal Arches crack is shaking up global travel, with Air Canada and U.S. airlines bracing for a drop in visitors. As the rockfall risk grows, hotels face uncertainty, and tourists must rethink their Yosemite plans.

As always, be mindful of safety guidelines and follow the advice of park rangers to ensure that your trip to this iconic park is both enjoyable and safe. Whether you’re hiking, climbing, or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery, Yosemite offers a wealth of experiences that are well worth the effort to explore, even amidst these challenges.