Every February, a small corner of Yosemite National Park becomes the center of the world for photographers and nature lovers alike. It’s the time of the Firefall—a rare natural phenomenon where the setting sun hits Horsetail Fall at just the right angle, transforming a delicate ribbon of water into what looks like a cascade of molten lava.
If you’re planning to witness this in 2026, you’re in for a treat, but it requires more than just showing up with a camera. Here is a deep dive into how to view it and why joining our Yosemite Grand Discovery Firefall Tour is the best way to experience the magic.
What Exactly is the Firefall?
The Yosemite Firefall is a unique occurrence that takes place in February in Yosemite National Park at Horsetail Fall. Cascading over El Capitan, Horsetail Fall is typically one of the lesser-known falls in the park. However, between mid to late February, Horsetail Fall becomes a natural spectacle. As the sun is setting, it is perfectly positioned behind the falls to illuminate them in striking red and orange hues. But the conditions have to be just right, with the right amount of water flowing and a cloudless sky.
Since the phenomenon was first captured on camera in 1973 by Galen Rowell, who had the sheer luck of being in the right place at the right time, the Yosemite Firefall has attracted visitors and photographers from far and wide.
For about two weeks in mid-to-late February, the sun sets at a specific degree that illuminates the water from behind. When the sky is clear and the snowmelt is flowing, the waterfall glows in vibrant oranges and reds for about 10 minutes before twilight. It is a spectacle that feels more like a CGI movie than reality—but it is 100% natural.
Key Dates for 2026:
- The Window: February 14 – 28
- The Peak: February 16 – 23 (when the angle of the sun is most direct)
Fun fact: Before the phenomenon of Horsetail Fall was first spotted, there was another Yosemite Firefall which involved actual fire embers being thrown over Glacier Point to create the effect of a blazing waterfall. This took place from 1872 until 1968, when the director of the National Park Service banned the event to preserve the valley and its natural state.
The Challenges of a Solo Trip
While the event is free to witness, the logistics have become famously difficult over the years as its popularity has exploded.
The Weather Gamble: The Firefall is temperamental. You need two things: enough water in the fall and a clear western horizon. Even a single cloud can “turn off” the light. Many people drive for hours only to have the light blocked at the last second.
Strict Reservations: To manage the crowds, Yosemite National Park typically requires vehicle reservations for the last three weekends of February. These often sell out in minutes months in advance, leaving many travelers stranded.
Parking & Trekking: During Firefall season, the road nearest the viewing area (Northside Drive) is restricted. Most visitors must park miles away at Yosemite Falls or Yosemite Village and trek 1.5 to 2 miles each way in the freezing cold to reach the El Capitan picnic area.
Planning Your Yosemite Firefall Visit
With the confluence of clear skies and enough water flow required for the firefall effect, it’s recommended to assess conditions prior to your visit if you want to avoid disappointment. Try to plan to visit on a day with minimal to no cloud cover and when the weather has been warm enough to melt water and cause it to flow.
The main viewing area is near the El Capitan Picnic Area. You can park at the Yosemite Falls parking and walk 1.5 miles to the viewing point. While the Yosemite Firefall can only be viewed about five to 15 minutes before the sun goes down, it’s important to arrive early to the viewing point to claim your spot as it can get crowded with eager sightseers and photographers.
Because you will be visiting in winter, make sure you dress in layers and wear appropriate shoes. Remember that you will have to walk back to your vehicle or accommodation, so bring a headlight or torch.
Why the 2-Day Grand Discovery Tour is the Ultimate Way to Go
Instead of stressing over permits, navigation, and icy parking lots, let Incredible Adventures handle the details. Our 2-Day Yosemite Grand Discovery Tour is specifically designed to take the “work” out of the weekend so you can focus on the wonder.
1. Guaranteed Entry & Stress-Free Permits
Forget refreshing a reservation website at 8:00 AM. As a professional commercial tour operator, our entrance into the park is guaranteed. When you book with us, your park entry and Firefall access are already secured. You just have to show up at the meeting point in San Francisco!
2. Expert Guides and Local Insights
Our guides have been navigating Yosemite for over 30 years. They don’t just drive the bus; they are storytellers and experts. They know the history of the park, the best “secret” spots that offer great angles away from the heaviest crowds, and they track the weather in real-time to ensure we are in the right place at the right time.
3. Exploration Beyond the Sunset
The Firefall only lasts 10 minutes, but our tour lasts two days. We make sure you see the “Grand Discovery” of the entire park. From walking among the ancient Giant Sequoias to taking in the iconic Tunnel View, you’ll see the park’s winter highlights that many day-trippers miss in their rush to the waterfall.
4. Comfort Over “Grit”
The Firefall happens in the dead of winter, and once the sun goes down, temperatures in the valley plummet. After the show, while others are hiking two miles back to their cars in the dark, you’ll be heading to a warm hotel room. There’s no better feeling than ending a day of winter hiking next to a hearth or under cozy hotel sheets.
5. Sustainable Travel
We believe in preserving the wild lands we visit. That’s why our tours run on sustainable, petroleum-free biofuel. By joining our small group tour, you are reducing the number of individual cars entering the park, helping to lower the environmental impact on the delicate Yosemite ecosystem.
Pro Tips for viewing the Firefall
• Layering is Essential: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a warm mid-layer, and a windproof outer shell. You will likely be standing still for a while waiting for the sun to hit.
• Photography Gear: If you want that “lava” shot, bring a zoom lens (200mm or higher) and a sturdy tripod.
• Patience and Community: Half the fun of the Firefall is the atmosphere. You’ll be surrounded by people from all over the world, all waiting for the same ten minutes of magic.
Ready to see the glow? Spaces for our February departures are the most sought-after seats of the year. Book your 2-Day Yosemite Firefall Tour here and let us take you on the adventure of a lifetime!
