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2004 Map of El Capitan

Name: 2004 Topographic Map of El Capitan
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2007
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2007

About this map

El Capitan stands as the dominant granite monolith over the Merced River in this 2004 revision, which details the iconic verticality and glacial carved features of the western valley. This study captures the high-country landscape just after the turn of the century, showing the intricate trail systems and seasonal waterways that define the region. High-elevation meadows like Summit Meadow and McGurk Meadow are mapped alongside the dramatic drops of Bridalveil Fall and Ribbon Fall.

Beyond the natural landmarks, the map traces the infrastructure supporting park access and local life, from the Arch Rock Entrance to the residential pocket of Yosemite West. Settlement patterns are concentrated at Foresta and Chinquapin, while the southern reaches of the quadrangle document the Badger Pass Ski Hill and the Hennes Ridge Lookout. The transition from the Yosemite National Park boundary into the Sierra National Forest is clearly delineated, marking the edge of the protected wilderness.