- El Capitan Meadow affords staggering views of some of the mightiest cliffs in Yosemite Valley - El Capitan to the north and the Cathedral Rocks to the south. Using binoculars to watch climbers on the various routes up El Capitan is a popular activity.
- El Capitan Meadow is located in Yosemite National Park. Travelers like the surrounding area for its riverfront. Yosemite National Park is home to 153 hotels and other accommodations, so you can find something that’s perfect for your stay.
- El Capitan is composed almost entirely of a pale, coarse-grained granite emplaced approximately 100 MYA (million years ago). In addition to El Capitan, this granite forms most of the rock features of the western portions of Yosemite Valley. A separate intrusion of igneous rock, the Taft Granite, forms the uppermost portions of the cliff face.
El Capitan Meadow, Yosemite National Park with kids: 'We caught the El Capitan Shuttle bus from in front of the Valley Visitor Center (Near shuttle stop 5) out to El Capitan meadow and Cathedral Beach. When the bus crossed the river we got off at stop E4. There we found a beautiful calm river w. Hotels near El Capitan Meadow, Yosemite National Park on Tripadvisor: Find 38,656 traveler reviews, 29,719 candid photos, and prices for 30 hotels near El Capitan Meadow in Yosemite National Park, CA.
Here are some guidelines for people visiting El Capitan State Beach:
What is open now?
The following is open at this park:
- Day-use parking, beaches, and restrooms.
- Campground opened June 22. For more information about camping, visit www.parks.ca.gov/COVID19Camping. To make a reservation, visit www.ReserveCalifornia.com or call 800-444-7275. Reservations must be made 48 hours in advance of arrival date.
- Day Use fees can be paid upon arrival through Passport Parking at www.passportparking.com.
What is currently closed at this park and throughout the State Park System?
At this park:
Where To Park For El Capitan Meadowlands
- Group campsites, camp store, and park office.
Statewide:
- Many campgrounds across the state remain closed until further notice. Some campgrounds have started to reopen with modifications. For more information, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/COVID19Camping.
- Many high public-use indoor facilities, including museums and visitor centers.
- Special events and group camping continue to be canceled until further notice.
Are there any new visitor guidelines?
Yes, please see below:
- Stay Local: Stay close to home. Walk or bike into the park. Parking is very limited. Do not take road trips to parks and beaches or to neighboring states.
- Stay Active: Keep walking, jogging, hiking and biking. Watch for one-way trails.
- Stay Safer at 6 Feet: Maintain a physical distance of 6 feet or more. Gatherings, picnics and parties are not allowed. Visitors will be asked to leave if there are too many people at the park, beach or on trails to allow for the required physical distance.
- Stay Clean: Be prepared. Bring soap/sanitizer and pack out all trash.
- Stay Covered: The state now requires you to wear a face covering in most indoor settings and public outdoor spaces when you cannot maintain physical distancing of six feet or more from people outside of your immediate household. For details, please visit CDPH’s guidance here. Visitors should also abide by their local county health orders.