El Capitan

El Capitan is about 4 mi. s.w. of Yosemite Village, reached via Yosemite Valley hiking trails. Rising nearly 3,000 feet above the valley floor, the world's largest granite monolith is a popular challenge for experienced rock climbers. El Capitan was first conquered in 1958 over a period of 17 months; in 1975, a trio of climbers ascended to the top in 1 day. Bridalveil Fall offers a particularly good vantage point for a view of this landmark. El Capitan Meadow, off Northside Drive, is another good viewpoint.