Firefall, Natural phenomenon at Horsetail Fall in Yosemite National Park, California.
Horsetail Fall cascades down El Capitan's east face, dropping over 2,130 feet through two parallel streams against the granite rock formation.
The natural Firefall gained recognition in 1973 when photographer Galen Rowell captured its image for National Geographic, introducing this phenomenon to the world.
Each February, photographers and nature enthusiasts gather at specific viewpoints in Yosemite Valley to document the waterfall's transformation into glowing orange hues.
The natural Firefall requires specific conditions: adequate snowmelt, warm daytime temperatures, clear western skies, and precisely angled sunlight during February sunsets.
For approximately ten minutes during sunset, sunlight illuminates the waterfall in shades of red and orange, creating an effect that resembles flowing lava or fire.
Location: California
GPS coordinates: 37.39681,-121.97269
Latest update: March 3, 2025 14:37
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