The Firefall at Horsetail Fall in Yosemite National Park is a breathtaking natural phenomenon that occurs around the second week of February each year. When the setting sun hits the east face of El Capitan in Yosemite Valley at just the right angle, it seems to transform into molten lava, glowing like a river of fire spilling over the rock. Each year in late February, hundreds of nature enthusiasts, photographers, and curious visitors gather in Yosemite to witness this amazing event.
When Does the Firefall Happen?
This rare phenomenon appears only if the conditions are perfect. For the Firefall to occur at Horsetail Fall, it needs to be flowing, and that requires a good snowpack in February and warm enough temperatures to melt it. Without sufficient snowmelt, the waterfall won’t tumble down at the east face of El Capitan granite rock. The western sky also needs to be clear at sunset. If the sun were concealed with clouds, then the waterfall wouldn’t light up. However, in Yosemite, the winter weather can be pretty fickle, and cloudy days may still clear up in time for the event.
if the conditions align perfectly, the Yosemite Firefall illuminates Horsetail Fall for about 10 breathtaking minutes. Watching the waterfall glow in blood red is nearly witnessing a supernatural experience.
The History of Yosemite’s Firefall
Historically, the “Firefall” in Yosemite meant something entirely different from the natural spectacle we know today. The native Awahneechee people, who lived in Yosemite Valley for hundreds of years, likely knew about the natural Firefall. However, there is no documented evidence that they shared this information with early white settlers. Yosemite Valley was first seen by white explorers in 1851 and over the next several decades, its natural wonders became widely known and promoted. Yet, despite Yosemite’s growing popularity, there were no mentions of the Firefall.
Even John Muir, the famed naturalist who lived in Yosemite for several years and explored every inch of Yosemite with meticulous detail, never spoke of the Firefall in any of his writings. The Firefall at Horsetail Fall remained hidden for many years.
What many people did talk about was the man-made version of the Firefall. The Firefall was originally started by James McCauley, owner of the Glacier Point Mountain House Hotel in the late 1800s. He started pushing glowing embers from bonfires over the edge of Glacier Point, creating the illusion of a fiery waterfall cascading down into the valley. This spectacle, called “firefall,” soon turned into a popular nightly ritual at the hotel, drawing millions of visitors from the late 1800s until the mid-1900s. Tourists would book their stays at Glacier Point Hotel specifically to watch the Firefall.
Environmental Concerns
After the World War II, concerns about the environmental impact of the Yosemite Firefall began to emerge. Public demand brought the gimmick back after the war, by 1968 the National Park Service decided to end the man made Firefall permanently. The decision came about after officials raised concerns about the potential damage to the fragile ecosystem and the increasing risk of wildfires caused by pushing burning embers off Glacier Point.
Viewing Locations
Yosemite is taking steps to manage crowds and protect the environment during the busy Firefall season. Southern Drive is no longer allowed for viewing. The recommended best viewing spot is the El Capitan picnic area on Northside Drive. One lane will be closed to vehicles so pedestrians can safely access the area.
There are two ways to get to the viewing spot,
1. Walk 1.5 miles from the Yosemite Falls parking lot, located near Yosemite Valley Lodge.
2. Use the free shuttle service from Yosemite Village or Curry Village. Check Yosemite’s shuttle schedules to find the nearest pickup points. You may also have to walk a bit from the shuttle stop to your desired location, so be prepared for a short hike. The shuttle service provides a convenient and eco-friendly way to reach your destination.
The most popular viewing locations for Firefall are as follows,
El Capitan Picnic Area (best view)
El Capitan Picnic Area is the most popular spot for viewing the Firefall, and it’s where most of the iconic, up close photos of the waterfall are taken. However, parking in this area is usually restricted, unless a permit system is established. Without permits, you’ll need to park near Camp 4, which is about 1.5 miles away from the picnic area, and walk the rest of the distance to reach the viewing location. Arrive early to find a good spot, specially during the Firefall’s peak days.
Northside Drive (alternative views)
The Northside Drive viewing point is another popular spot for experience the Yosemite’s Firefall. It provides a great view of Horsetail Fall on the east face of El Capitan, giving that iconic view.
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area (less crowded)
The Cathedral Beach Picnic Area is quiet and less crowded compared to the other viewpoints in Yosemite when it comes to viewing the Firefall. Located along the Merced River, this area offers a more distant but still excellent view of Horsetail Fall.
How to Prepare for Your Firefall Visit?
Get reservations
Due to the Firefall’s growing popularity, Yosemite has implemented a reservation system to reduce parking congestion and create a better visitor experience. Reservations, which can be made at recreation.gov, will be required for entry to Yosemite National Park during peak Firefall days in February. Make sure to get yours in advance to ensure smooth access to the park.
Be Prepared for the Weather
Be ready for the weather, as February in Yosemite can be quite cold, especially in the evenings when the Firefall happens.
Remember that February temperatures in Yosemite typically range from 28 to 53 degrees Fahrenheit. So dress in layers to stay warm, and bring a good jacket, hat, gloves and scarfs. It is best to wear waterproof boots in case of snow or wet ground. Having a blanket or thermos of a hot drink can make the wait more comfortable. Keep in mind that weather in Yosemite can change quickly, so it’s smart to check the forecast before heading out.
Bring a flashlight or headlamp. Natural light will diminish rapidly after sunset, therefore having a reliable light source will help you to safely find your way back from the viewing area
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Yosemite Firefall?
The Yosemite Firefall is a natural phenomenon that occurs when the setting sun hits Horsetail Fall at just the right angle, making the water appear to glow with fiery orange and red hues, resembling flowing lava.
Where is Yosemite Firefalls?
The Yosemite Firefall occurs at Horsetail Fall, which is located on the eastern side of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, California.
Which waterfall is Firefall?
The Firefall is actually Horsetail Fall being illuminated by sunset which perfectly hits the falls to give it this fiery glow.
When can I see the Firefall?
You can see the Firefall in mid to late February, typically between the 10th and 27th. The best time is just before sunset when the light hits the falls at the perfect angle.
What is the best spot to view the Firefall?
El Capitan Picnic Area is the most popular spot for viewing the Firefall, and it is the spot where you will see most of the up-close photos of the waterfall
Do I need a reservation to see the Firefall?
Yes, during peak Firefall days in February, Yosemite requires reservations to manage crowds. You can check and book reservations on recreation.gov.
What are the conditions needed for the Firefall to happen?
The Firefall only occurs when several conditions align, The waterfall must be flowing, which depends on snowmelt and The sky needs to be clear at sunset. (Even slight cloud cover can block the sunlight, preventing the fiery glow)
How can I get to the firefall viewing areas?
You can walk from Yosemite Falls parking lot, (about 1.5 miles from the viewing areas), or take the free shuttle from Yosemite Village or Curry Village to reach the viewing areas.
How long does the Firefall last?
The Firefall phenomenon typically lasts about 10 to 15 minutes each evening, depending on how long the sun stays at the right angle.
How far do I have to hike to see the Firefall?
The walk from the main parking lots to the most common viewing areas is approximately 1.5 miles each way.
