Every February, Yosemite National Park plays host to one of California’s most dazzling natural phenomena: The Yosemite Firefall.
For a few fleeting moments at dusk, the setting sun shines perfectly through Horsetail Fall as it flows off of El Capitan. If the conditions are just right, the result is a brilliant molten orange waterfall that looks like a deluge of glowing fire cascading 2,000 feet down the famous rock monolith.
Thousands of photographers and onlookers are known to show up every year to see the rare sight from below — most of them reserved campsites months in advance just for this moment.
When is the 2026 Yosemite Firefall?
The Yosemite Firefall occurs from mid-to-late February.
This year, Yosemite will not require vehicle reservations during that time, although visitors should still plan ahead for crowds. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
If you want to stay in Yosemite, you need a reservation for camping or overnight lodging.
What causes the Yosemite Firefall?
Conditions have to be just right in order to produce the Yosemite Firefall, so visiting at the correct time isn’t always enough.
Here are a few determining factors…
- Alignment of the sun, waterfall, and viewer: Viewers gather at the El Capitan Picnic Area for the best chance of catching a perfect sun-to-waterfall angle. The fall begins to light up about 5-15 minutes before sunset.
- Enough water in Horsetail Fall: Horsetail Fall’s thin water stream comes from seasonal snow runoff, meaning the weather must be cold enough to still have snow on the ground, but warm enough for it to melt during the day. Visitors can check the Yosemite Falls webcam for a live view of the conditions.
- Clear skies: Even if all of the other conditions are met, a cloudy forecast can be enough to block the sunlight or view.
Where is the best view of the Firefall in Yosemite?
Visitors generally view the Yosemite Firefall from the El Capitan Picnic Area. Parking is available at the Yosemite Falls Parking Area, although you can also park at Yosemite Village or Curry Village and take the free shuttle.
Thousands of people show up to see the Firefall every year. Consider arriving early and be prepared for a long walk between the parking and viewing areas.
Yosemite recommends packing a flashlight or headlamp with a red LED capability, warm boots or durable footwear, a camping chair or pad to sit on, warm layers, and food and water. If you’re there to try and photograph the Firefall, they recommend gear for low-light photography, a telephoto lens, and a tripod.
🌐 Learn more: Read Yosemite’s 2026 Firefall guide