El Capitan (Idaho) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids El Capitan |
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El Capitan and Alice Lake
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 9,901 ft (3,018 m) |
| Prominence | 437 ft (133 m) |
| Parent peak | Peak 10,052 |
| Geography | |
 El Capitan
Location in Idaho
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| Parent range | Sawtooth Range |
| Topo map | USGS Snowyside Peak |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Scrambling, class 3 |
El Capitan is a tall mountain in the Sawtooth Range of central Idaho, in the western United States. It stands at about 9,901 feet (3,018 meters) high. This mountain is part of the beautiful Sawtooth Wilderness, which is inside the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. It's located in Blaine County.
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About El Capitan
El Capitan is a well-known peak in the Sawtooth Mountains. It's not the tallest mountain in the range, but it's still very impressive. It gets its name from its strong, rock-faced appearance, similar to the famous El Capitan in Yosemite.
Where is El Capitan?
This mountain is found in the heart of Idaho's wilderness. It's about 1.2 miles (1.9 km) south-southeast of a peak known as Peak 10,052. This other peak is considered its "parent peak" because it's taller and closer.
El Capitan is also near other interesting places. It's about 1.9 miles (3.1 km) east of Snowyside Peak. It's also 1.4 miles (2.3 km) west of McDonald Peak.
Nearby Lakes and Trails
One of the most beautiful features near El Capitan is Alice Lake. The mountain rises dramatically above the eastern side of this lake. Alice Lake itself sits at an elevation of about 8,600 feet (2,621 meters).
You can reach Alice Lake by following a trail from Pettit Lake. Pettit Lake is at a lower elevation, around 7,000 feet (2,134 meters). The trail to Alice Lake is considered a moderate hike, meaning it's not too difficult but still a good workout.
Exploring the Sawtooth Wilderness
The area around El Capitan is part of the larger Sawtooth Wilderness. This is a protected natural area. It means the land is kept wild and untouched as much as possible. It's a great place for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.
What is the Sawtooth Wilderness?
The Sawtooth Wilderness is a special part of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. It covers a large area of mountains, forests, and lakes. It's a place where animals can live freely and nature can thrive.
Visitors can explore many trails and enjoy the stunning views. It's important to follow rules to protect the environment. This helps keep the wilderness beautiful for everyone.
How to Visit
To visit El Capitan and the surrounding area, you usually need to hike. The trails can be rocky and steep in some places. It's always a good idea to be prepared with proper gear. This includes good hiking boots, water, and snacks.
Many people enjoy backpacking in this area. They carry their camping gear and spend a few nights in the wilderness. This allows them to explore more deeply and see amazing sunrises and sunsets over the mountains.
