El Capitan Meadow
El Capitan Meadow in Yosemite National Park offers one of the most iconic and breathtaking views in the park. Nestled beneath the towering granite face of El Capitan, this serene meadow provides a perfect vantage point to marvel at the sheer scale and grandeur of the world-famous monolith. Visitors can watch climbers ascending the vertical walls, spot wildlife such as deer grazing in the grass, and enjoy stunning reflections of the cliffs in the nearby Merced River.
Photography Opportunities
El Capitan: Well, duh! El Capitan is the star of the show. This massive granite monolith rises almost 3,000 feet from the valley floor, offering a majestic backdrop for your photos.
Climbers’ Delight: If you have a zoom lens, try to spot climbers scaling the vertical face. They look like tiny specks against the vast rock, adding a sense of scale and adventure to your shots.
Cathedral Rocks: Beyond El Capitan, the meadow offers a stunning view of Cathedral Rocks, which rise majestically across the valley. These dramatic formations, framed by autumn colors and reflected in the tranquil waters of the Merced River, create compositions that are both dynamic and serene. Depending on the time of day you’re there, see if you can capture a sun-star!
Where to next?
Artist Point
Cooks Meadow
El Capitan Meadow
Ellery Lake Viewpoint
Hanging Valley Viewpoint
John Muir Trail to Nevada Fall
Lower Yosemite Falls
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Merced River
Mirror Lake
Mist Trail to Vernal Fall
Mono Lake - South Tufa Area
Olmsted Point
Pohono Bridge
Sentinel Bridge
Tahiti Bridge
Tuolomne Meadows
Tunnel View
Valley View