Two Iconic Mountains of Yosemite National Park

Half Dome and El Capitan: Yosemite's Granite Giants

Yosemite National Park's most famous landmarks are two massive granite formations that dominate Yosemite Valley and attract climbers, photographers, and nature lovers worldwide.

Half Dome

• Elevation: 8,844 ft (2,696 m)
• Feature: A sheer, nearly vertical northwest face rising 4,737 ft (1,444 m) from the valley floor.
• Geology: Granite pluton shaped by glacial erosion and exfoliation.
• Access: Cable route (permit required) for hikers; technical rock climbs for alpinists.

El Capitan

• Elevation: 7,573 ft (2,308 m)
• Feature: A 3,000 ft (914 m) vertical cliff—the largest exposed granite monolith in the world.
• Geology: Massive, joint-free granite ideal for big-wall climbing.
• Legacy: Historic climbs (The Nose, Dawn Wall) made it a mecca for rock climbing.

Shared Significance

Both formations are glacial sculpted remnants of the Sierra Nevada batholith. They frame Yosemite Valley's iconic vistas—from Tunnel View to Glacier Point—and symbolize the park's wild grandeur.

Whether viewed from the meadow or scaled by elite climbers, Half Dome and El Capitan define Yosemite's identity.