Last Updated: 11th Sep 2026
Last Updated: 11th Sep 2026
Open
Grunt Factor: 62 ?
Gnarl Factor: 50 ?
30.9km
1715m
1460m
Back country - remote
Point to Point (one way)
Mountainous
Open tussock/grasslands
Open ridges/tops
Easy Single Track
Moderate Single Track
Technical Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +12.10%
Average Downhill Gradient: -10.30%
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8:00
Slow
5:30
Moderate
4:00
Fast
From the Yosemite Falls Trailhead, head steeply up the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail. At the top of the Falls trail, turn left (don't turn right to drop and cross the creek) and continue up through the forest. At roughly 9km, detour off the trail to visit Eagle Peak, then rejoin the trail and continue along until you get to the second shorter trail detour to visit El Capitan.
This is the top of one of the most famous big wall climbs in the world and the subject of the climbing film Free Solo.
Head back to the main trail and continue in a generally westerly direction. The El Capital Trail continues though forest, crossing creeks, all the way until about 23-24km, where there is a trail junction. Turn hard right and take Old Big Oak Flat Road for a short way. This crosses Cascade Creek and gets you onto trail again - make sure you turn left once you've crossed the creek to stay on Old Big Oak Flat Trail.
This trail continues to traverse through the forest, later opening out into more meadowly areas, until a short sharp descent takes you to the finish at Old Big Oat Flat Road Trailhead.
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Unknown
Moderate.
Patchy.
Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival blanket, Cellphone, Compass, Map
Creek crossings.
There can be a lot of snow until quite late in the season and if there's snow covering the trail it's hard to follow. Make sure you're capable of navigating (GPS can be a bit haphazard due to all the rock, so map and compass skills are recommended).
The information provided is a guide only. Conditions, access and hazards can change, so use your own judgement and check current local information before heading out. Make sure the route or location is suitable for your experience, fitness and equipment, and check any access restrictions or permissions that may apply.
Do you have a suggestion on where to go afterwards for the best coffee / cake / breakfast / brunch / beer?
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and Yosemite Falls to El Cap
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Length: 32.5km
Level: Intermediate
Distance Away: 3.2km
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