Every year, for a few days in February, right before sunset the sun rays hit the Horsetail Falls at just the perfect angle making the waterfalls to light up creating an image of a flowing fire/lava.




When does it happen?
Firefall occurs for a few days from mid to late February. Dates differ every year.

When did it happen in 2019?
Firefall started showing on February 11th and lasted till February 23rd in 2019.

Where is the location of the firefall?
Firefall is the name given to the Horsetail falls in Yosemite National Park in California, USA. The waterfalls flows over eastern edge of the El Capitan in the Yosemite Valley Region.

Where is the nearest parking?
Rules change every year. As of 2019, parking is not allowed on the valley road near the firefall area. All visitors (except ADA) have to park either at the Camp 4 or Yosemite Lodge parking area. The viewing area is about a mile walk from there.

The roads were paved of snow when we went there. But be prepared to walk in the snow.

How soon should you arrive at the park?
Firefall has become famous in recent years and hundreds of people arrive at the Yosemite National Park to view this spectacular natural phenomenon. The parking lots get filled up by afternoon so arrive as early as you can to secure a spot closest to the viewing area. Else you might have to park in the Valley Parking area and walk more than 2 miles.

How soon should you arrive at the viewing spot?
Depending on where you are, the view of the Firefalls may be partially obstructed by trees. To get the unobstructed view, arrive at the viewing area atleast 3 hours in advance on weekends. It will be cold hence always carry extra layers of clothing, flashlights, snacks and water and also a light weight camping chair(to sit on) if possible.

Where is the nearest restroom?
The nearest restroom is at Camp 4 which is a mile walk from the viewing area.

Are shuttle buses operating in winter?
Shuttle buses operate year around inside the Yosemite National Park from 7 AM to 10 PM. The nearest shuttle stop for viewing the firefall is Camp 4 (one mile walk from the stop). Always check at the Visitor Center for the shuttle bus timings for the day.

Are tire chains required?
Yosemite park rangers and staff do an excellent job in clearing the snow from the road and making it as safe as possible for the visitors. But the weather conditions are unpredictable and snow/icy conditions can happen anytime in winter. Hence always carry tire chains or call 209-372-0200 to get the latest update on the road conditions inside the park.

What else to see in Yosemite National Park in winter?
Yosemite National Park is beautiful year-round and has lot of places you can visit and explore. My favorites are the Tunnel View on Highway 41, Bridalveil falls, view of Half Dome from the Valley, Yosemite Falls, Badger Pass Ski Area and snow shoe hiking around the park.

Which road to take to Yosemite from Bay Area?
From Bay Area, there are three roads leading to Yosemite NP - Highway 41, 140 and 120. We always take Highway 140 in winter as that is at a lower elevation and is most likely to be open. Highway 41 will also be open but as its at a higher elevation might usually require snow chains. Highway 120 is also at a higher elevation and is sometimes closed due to snow.