Firefall

Firefall is a natural phenomenon at Horsetail Fall on the east face of El Capitan, where water cascades over 600 meters (2,000 feet) down in two parallel streams along the granite rock. The volume and frequency of the waterfall depend heavily on seasonal snowmelt and weather conditions.

The phenomenon gained recognition in 1973 when photographer Galen Rowell captured an image for National Geographic, introducing this natural occurrence to a wide audience. Since then it has become a symbol of the special moments Yosemite offers to visitors.

Every February, photographers and nature lovers gather at specific viewpoints in Yosemite Valley to watch the waterfall transform into glowing orange light. The event has become an annual gathering where people from around the world come to share this rare moment together.

This phenomenon requires specific conditions: enough snowmelt, warm daytime temperatures, clear western skies, and sunlight at just the right angle during February sunsets. Visitors should arrive early to secure good viewpoints and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

For about ten minutes during sunset, the waterfall is illuminated in shades of red and orange, creating an effect that looks like flowing lava. This brief time window is why many visitors miss the phenomenon even when they are present on the right days.