Yosemite Ends Reservations For Rare Firefall -What to Know About Seeing the 'Waterfall of Fire' in 2026

"Tucked inside of the park's Yosemite Valley, the Horsetail Fall waterfall comes to life for a short season each year as winter snow and rain runoff drain off El Capitan. During an even shorter season-just a few weeks in February-the waterfall lights up as the sun perfectly aligns just before sunset to reveal a unique orange and yellow glowing feature, similar to the appearance of a flame."

"To access the Horsetail Fall, travelers should park at the Yosemite Falls parking area and walk 1.5 miles to the viewing area near the El Capitan Picnic Area. The NPS said if the parking is full, visitors should instead park at Yosemite Village or Curry Village and use the free shuttle. Restrooms, trash, and recycling areas will be open and available near the El Capitan Picnic Area. The NPS also recommends visitors dress warmly and bring a headlamp or flashlight for each person."

The National Park Service will waive the advanced-reservation requirement for Horsetail Fall's seasonal 'firefall' this February. Horsetail Fall glows orange and yellow for a few February weeks when runoff and a sunset alignment illuminate the water. Visitors should park at Yosemite Falls and walk 1.5 miles to the El Capitan Picnic Area; if full, park at Yosemite Village or Curry Village and use the free shuttle. Restrooms, trash, and recycling will be available near the picnic area. Spectators should dress warmly, bring a headlamp or flashlight, and arrive several hours early because the glowing effect lasts about 5 to 15 minutes. Curated guided experiences and shuttles are available from nearby resorts. Yosemite received over 4.1 million visitors in 2024.

Read at Travel + Leisure