El Capitan peak
El Capitan rises to 7,569 ft in Pacific-Ranges within the Sierra Nevada range.
Standing at a staggering height of 3,000 feet (900 meters) from base to summit, it is one of the most challenging and sought-after rock climbing destinations in the world. The mountain's name, "El Capitan," translates to "The Captain" in Spanish, reflecting its imposing presence.
During the winter season, El Capitan experiences varying snowpack levels due to its elevation and exposure. Snowfall can range from a few inches to several feet, creating ideal conditions for winter mountaineering and ice climbing. The Pacific Ranges, of which El Capitan is a part, receive ample precipitation, ensuring a reliable snowpack each year.
Several creeks and rivers in the vicinity of El Capitan benefit from the mountain's runoff. Bridalveil Creek, which originates from the southern slopes of El Capitan, cascades down the mountain's face, contributing to the flow of the Merced River. This river, in turn, plays a crucial role in maintaining the diverse ecosystem of Yosemite National Park.
As for history and legends surrounding El Capitan, Indigenous tribes like the Ahwahneechee and Miwok have long held spiritual connections to the mountain. Stories of mythical creatures and legendary feats of strength associated with El Capitan have been passed down through generations. Additionally, European explorers and settlers gave the mountain its current name during their exploration of the region in the 19th century.
In summary, El Capitan is an awe-inspiring granite monolith with a height of 3,000 feet, situated in the Pacific Ranges mountain range of California. It offers challenging rock climbing opportunities and experiences varying snowpack levels during the winter season. The mountain contributes to the flow of creeks and rivers such as Bridalveil Creek and the Merced River. Its name, El Capitan, reflects its imposing presence, and it holds cultural significance for Indigenous tribes while also carrying the history of European exploration.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Pacific-Ranges range.
Snowpack near El Capitan
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Bloods Creek | 0 in | → |
| Nohrsc Forni Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Kaiser Point | 0 in | → |
| Nohrsc Tuolumne Meadows | 125 in | → |
| Nohrsc Mammoth Pass | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Chilkoot Meadow | 0 in | → |
| Nohrsc Lower Kibbie | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc White Wolf Raws | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Hagan's Meadow Snotel | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Forestdale Creek | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Burnside Lake | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Deadman Ck Near Kennedy Meadows - Sonora Pass | 8 in | → |
Streamflow near El Capitan
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry C Nr Early Intake Ca | 205 cfs | → |
| E Walker R Blw Sweetwater C Nr Bridgeport | 22 cfs | → |
| Cherry C Bl Dion R Holm Ph | 1,310 cfs | → |
| Tuolumne R Ab Early Intake Nr Mather Ca | 1,370 cfs | → |
| Tuolumne R A Wards Ferry Br Nr Groveland Ca | 21,000 cfs | → |
| Desert C Nr Wellington | 3 cfs | → |
| Tuolumne R Bl Early Intake Nr Mather Ca | 1,820 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around El Capitan
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of El Capitan.
Get El Capitan on your phone.
Save this peak as a favorite and get push alerts when storms move in, fresh snow falls upstream, or NWS issues a weather warning. Free, account optional.
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Set up an alert
Custom alerts are configured in the Snoflo iOS app. Open the app, navigate to this peak, and tap the bell icon to set thresholds for snowfall, temperature, or wind.