While the Yosemite Firefall phenomenon—when Yosemite National Park’s Horsetail Fall reflects the colors of the setting sun, creating the glorious illusion of fire pouring down El Capitan—is never guaranteed, it attracts thousands of visitors every year. While I usually prefer to enjoy nature without crowds, part of what makes this event special is sharing the moment with other people. If you also want to enjoy this natural lightshow, read on for my tips on how to make the most of this year’s Yosemite Firefall opportunity.

What causes the Yosemite firefall?

For a few weeks every year, the winter sun hits the water cascading from the east side of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, California, creating the striking effect of lava pouring down the dark cliff. There is no hike or climb required—all you need is to be in the right spot, at the right time. 

Two important conditions must be met: the water must be flowing, and the skies must be clear. Last year, Yosemite’s falls benefited from multiple snowstorms in January paired with an unusually warm February, creating plenty of snowmelt to power the falls. You can check out the Yosemite webcams to get an idea of how much water is flowing this year. Sunshine is also key. My first attempt to see a firefall ten years ago was frustrated by stubbornly overcast skies, so I was delighted to get a second chance last year.

Today’s Firefall is entirely natural, but the name comes from a popular former tourist attraction at Yosemite National Park. For almost 100 years, visitors assembled at Camp Curry after dark on summer nights and watched as burning embers were tipped over the cliff in a cascade of flame. 

In the 1960s, the tradition was dropped over wildfire concerns and a desire to emphasize the natural wonders of Yosemite over artificial spectacle. Just five years after the old Firefall ended, photographer Galen Rowell noticed the beautiful trick of light on Horsetail Fall and published the image that launched a new tradition.

What are the dates for Yosemite firefall in 2026?

The firefall occurs mid-to-late February, from around February 15 to February 26. The weekend of 14-15 February, Presidents Day on 16 February, and the weekend of 21-22 February will likely be crowded with hopeful spectators. Because the firefall depends on sunny weather, it’s best to plan for a few days in the park to maximize your chances of clear skies. 

Do I need reservations to see the Yosemite firefall in 2026?

After guests damaged sensitive riverside areas in 2022, Yosemite National Park introduced a reservation system to limit crowds during February weekends. Although there will be restrictions in place to protect the park, no reservations to Yosemite National Park are required to visit in 2026.

You will need a pass to enter the park, which you can buy at the gates.

Where do I go to see the firefall?

Despite the crowds, I was easily able to find a nice spot to wait until the 15 minutes before sunset when the magic happens. We drove to the nearest parking lot, near Yosemite Falls, then walked along Northside Drive until we found a good spot in an area next to the road (it’s clear from all the photographers where to go.) If you can’t find a space for your car, park in Yosemite Village and take the free shuttle bus to Yosemite Falls (stop seven or stop eight). 

This area, easy of the El Capitan picnic area, is known as the north view. It’s great because there is plenty of space for everyone—no need to get there mega early to nab a good viewing spot. We arrived at around 3.30 p.m on a pretty busy day, and there were still people arriving after us.

The other (and more popular viewpoint) is at Cathedral Beach, called the south view. We had lunch there earlier in the day and noted the many photographers already set up for sunset. It is a really scenic spot at a bend in the Merced River, but I recommend setting up early if you are keen to secure a good view here due to the crowds. 

Wherever you decide to go, you will have to park up and walk, as the road is closed to vehicles parking and stopping between the Yosemite Falls and El Capitan parking lots to give pedestrians more space. From the parking lot at Yosemite Falls, it’s about 1.5 miles to the nearest viewing spot.

You could try to find other, less crowded spots in Yosemite to enjoy the view, but you don’t want to miss the moment searching for that perfect place.

What should I pack to see the firefall?

You don’t need a camera to enjoy the experience, but if you do bring one, I would recommend setting it up on a tripod. As the light fades, you will need to switch to a longer exposure time and holding it by hand risks a blurry shot. Otherwise, I would suggest camping chairs, water, plenty of snacks, and warm clothing. If you have kids with you, maybe something for them to do while you wait.

Don’t forget you are going to be walking back to your car in the dark, so bring a light like a headlamp, or one of these beanies with a built-in light (these are so perfect for kids).

Where should I stay in Yosemite National Park?

Within the park, your options are Yosemite Valley Lodge, the Ahwahnee Hotel, or camping. I love camping, but it’s way too cold for me in February. If you don’t want to stay within Yosemite National Park, there are many options just outside the gates (note it’s a 40-minute drive from the entrances to Yosemite Valley).

I booked Tenaya Lodge for its family-friendly credentials, and recommend this hotel if you don’t mind the drive into the valley. Located just outside Yosemite’s south entrance on Highway 41, guests get access to an indoor pool, game room, lobby with fireplace, s’mores for toasting, an ice rink in the winter months, and yoga classes—all included in the room fee. This was a real selling point for my kids, who didn’t want to spend the entire break hiking and taking pictures of waterfalls.

I have also stayed in the cute gateway town of Mariposa on past visits. The Best Western in Mariposa is a great budget option for a Yosemite trip.

If you want to stay in a cabin, there is a small community within the park at Wawona. I booked this Yosemite home on a trip with another family, and there was plenty of space for everyone, plus we saved some money by cooking for ourselves.

Firefall at Yosemite is a beautiful sight, but there is so much more to Yosemite National Park. I have another article focused on some of the easier, family-friendly trails you can take in the Valley, so check out Yosemite with a Toddler for ideas on what to do with the rest of your trip.

The post Yosemite Firefall 2026: How to see Yosemite National Park’s Famous Firefall appeared first on Tiny Trailblazers.

Planning a family vacation to Yosemite National Park this summer? Don’t forget any of the essentials, it’s a long drive to the nearest town! Here is my packing list I use when planning an outdoors family vacation.

This post contains affiliate links to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I only recommend products I have personally used, or from brands in which I have confidence.

Day pack

A good day pack should be light weight, sturdy, comfortable and feature plenty of pockets. Bonus points if it is waterproof!

I love Osprey as a brand because although their packs are expensive, they come with a a lifetime guarantee – Osprey will repair or replace your back pack free of charge, whether you bought it 20 years ago or yesterday. It’s a “buy once and done” philosophy I am on board with. The Osprey Daylite is my pick for short family hikes as it is small, lightweight and simple.

Hiking shoes

Depending on the age of your kids, you may only be attempting easy paths. But even on the simple trails, you might have to cross a small stream or climb over some rocks. You will need a sturdy, comfortable – and preferably waterproof – pair of shoes for everyone as sore feet will quickly spoil your trip.

Sports Basement or REI are great stores for outdoor equipment. As for brands, Keen is my favorite for the whole family. Their toddler shoes are very flexible and still look good after a year of continuous wear.

Water bottles

I have tried a lot of different bottles for my kids but I always go back to Green Sprouts. These bottles have been through the dishwasher hundreds of times and still don’t leak. The weakest point is the silicone straw but you can get a replacement pack for when they break (especially if you have a chewer).

For the adults, something that will keep your drink cool (or hot) is a bonus, and of course, should not leak all over your pack. YETI will keep your drinks cold (or hot) and stylish.

Snacks

Trail mix is good for a pick-me-up, as are cereal bars.

Waterproof jacket

The weather can change quickly and it is always good to be prepared. A light-weight waterproof can be layered for cooler weather or thrown on in the event of a sudden spring downpour. Columbia is a good, affordable brand, I especially like their Pardon My Trench coat, which looks as good in the big city as the great outdoors. Check out Columbia’s cute kid’s jacket and their men’s waterproof to outfit the whole family.

Baby carrier

If your child is three or under, you will find they get tired quickly on a hike and want to be carried. A back carrier or a stroller is essential for a National Park vacation with toddlers or babies. While you can find trails suitable for a stroller, it is a good idea to have a carrier so you are not limited to where you can explore.

For babies, I prefer a stretchy wrap, as I found these type more comfortable. Boba is the original and has thousands of great reviews on Amazon. For toddlers, a back carrier is the way to go. I still use a soft structured carrier like the LILLEBaby (actually it is a Connecta, which I love, if you’re reading this in the UK check them out!) but if you plan on doing a LOT of toddler carrying, you may be better investing in a frame carrier.

I have never actually tested any out so can’t recommend any personally – I will defer to Wirecutter who have a very thorough review.

Hats

It is essential to protect yourself from the sun. For kids I really like hats with chin straps like this one from iPlay. All my friends have this brand sun hat, we love them! For the adults, a wide-brimmed hat that can be crushed down for packing like this one from Siggi is perfect (and affordable).

Sunscreen

Kids often have sensitive skin and I have found mine do react to many brands. Banana Boat Kids Factor 50 spray is light, easily absorbed and has caused us no problems so we use this for the whole family when outdoors.

It’s also reef safe so you can take it to the beach as well as Yosemite.

Bug spray

I have always had the best results from bug sprays containing DEET, which is safe to use on children over two months old. Natural alternatives containing essential oils such as citronella are available but won’t be as effective.

I didn’t find mosquitoes too much of a problem during the day in Yosemite but if you are camping or planning to be outside at dusk it would be a good idea to have some on you.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has the following recommendations for parents using insect repellants on children:

• Do not buy “two-in-one” repellant and sunscreen because sunscreen needs to be applied more frequently than repellant
• Do not use products with oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane-3,8-diol, or PMD) on under three-year-olds as it can irritate their eyes. Not to be confused with lemon eucalyptus oil, which is safer for children but not as effective
• Do not use repellant under clothes, use on bare skin only
• Do not spray onto the face directly, spray on your hands then apply to the face
• Avoid multiple applications
• Once indoors, wash it off with soap and water

It’s your call on whether to use a product with DEET or a spray with essential oils. While DEET has been used for years and has been proven to be safe and effective, it does smell pretty awful and there is a chance your child’s skin might have a reaction. I do use it at times when bugs are really a problem and anywhere ticks might be active. Make sure you read the ingredients of whatever you buy – for kids aged under 10, buy something with a 10% concentration of DEET.

I have a spray but it does get everywhere – wipes might be a better buy for children. If you use a spray, stand away from your kids and spray it into your hand, then rub it onto their exposed skin.

These wipes from Cutter are family-safe at 7% and if you prefer a natural alternative, try this Babyganics repellant instead.

First Aid kit

Kids inevitably get grazes, bruises and splinters when playing outdoors so have a simple first aid kit with you. I always take some antiseptic ointment, band aids, a cold pack, children’s Tylenol, children’s anti-histamines (plus adult versions) and tweezers in mine, which seems to cover most emergencies. 

Camera

Smartphones take beautiful pictures now and I do use mine a lot! If you want to up your game though, I do think a DSLR is worth the cost and effort. The new generation of mirrorless cameras are a lot lighter if weight is off-putting and you don’t actually need a lot of extra equipment to take great photos – for example, I hardly ever use my tripod but with the in-built anti-vibration technology I can still take non-blurry photos with long exposure times.

Sony and Olympus make outstanding mirrorless cameras, so check out the Sony Alpha a6000 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mk II if you are looking for a sturdy, light-weight camera to capture those amazing views.

If you prefer to stick to the smartphone, invest in a selfie stick or tripod for group pictures and a set of lenses from Olloclip or Moment.

Pocket microscope

There are a lot of interesting things to pick up and look at out on a trail, so take this small but powerful LED microscope with you to get a closer look at the flowers, rocks and bugs you find. It’s also helpful if your child is keeping a travel journal and wants to draw pictures of the things they see on their trip.

National Park Annual Pass

You can buy your pass as you drive through the gates but if you want to buy in advance, you can order one online. Even if you don’t buy one in advance, it’s a good idea to check the different prices, options and discounts available so you can move through the entrance a bit quicker.

What to read

Anything by John Muir, of course! I really enjoyed “Anywhere that is wild” the naturalist’s account of his walk from San Francisco to Yosemite. His unapologetic enthusiasm for the natural beauty of California is inspiring and it is fun to follow in his footsteps, even if it is by car.

Also check out my post for stroller-friendly trails in Yosemite, plus accommodation recommendations for families. Have a great trip!

The post Packing List For Yosemite National Park appeared first on Tiny Trailblazers.

I looked a bit closer at the stream we had just crossed and I could see it too – gold flakes sparkling among the rocks in the cold, clear water. Since pre-school had introduced the idea of leprechauns, my five-year-old has been pretty obsessed by the idea of finding treasure and he was overjoyed to actually find some, despite me trying to convince him that the real treasure is the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.

This was the third trip to Yosemite for my husband and I, but our first taking our two children, who are three and five years old. We had also teamed up with our friends, who have three children, an almost two, almost three and a six year old. 

I was keen to show my friends Yosemite because it is such a special place: not just because of the iconic Half Dome, or the spectacular waterfalls, but because of its history. Yosemite was the first land set aside for the public by the federal government, not quite the first National Park (Yellowstone) but certainly the precedent for the creation of this beloved American institution.

Yosemite can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities and makes an excellent multi-generational vacation destination. There are plenty of stroller-friendly trails in Yosemite for parents with babies and toddlers.

And no need for camping, if that’s not your thing – we stayed in a very comfortable Airbnb, right in the park itself.

2021 UPDATE: Reservations are required throughout the summer – book your pass here. To make sure you get your preferred date, log onto the reservations website seven days before your planned trip, at 8 a.m. sharp. It’s tricky to get a good phone signal in the park, so download, screenshot or print out your reservation QR code.

Shuttles are cancelled for the 2021 season, so the only way to get around is by car. Be aware that the car parks for popular trailheads will fill up quickly.

Stroller-friendly trails in Yosemite Valley

Although Yosemite National Park covers over 1,168 square miles, most of the four million annual visitors stay within the seven square miles of Yosemite Valley. This is where you will find the most famous waterfalls, including Bridalveil and Yosemite Falls, as well as views of Half Dome and El Capitan. It’s also where you will find the restaurants, bars, shops and accommodation.

Obviously this area will get busy during the summer months but if you have small children who need to be carried or pushed, this is the place to go for toddler-approved hikes.

Although these are all easy trails, there are still a few things you can do to make sure everyone stays safe. Check out these hiking safety tips from an outdoor family adventure expert.

Bridalveil Fall Trail

Stroller friendly: Yes, paved

Distance: 0.5 mile round trip

Trail start: Bridalveil Fall Parking Area

Bridalveil is the waterfall you will see after you have been through the tunnel (and stopped to check out the incredible view). In the spring and early summer, the water thunders down to the valley below, reducing to a gentler flow during the fall and winter. Starting from the parking lot, the trail takes you past giant granite boulders and pine forest to the base of the waterfall, where you can enjoy the breeze from the force of the rushing water.

If the lot is full, you can drive on and park on the road as there is another trail a little further along. This trail is unpaved, so not great for strollers, but still fairly easy. We carried our toddlers some of the way.

Lower Yosemite Fall Trail

Distance: 1 mile

Stroller friendly: Yes, paved

Trail start: Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead, at Yosemite Village and either walk or take the shuttle to the trailhead

Yosemite Falls is North America’s tallest waterfall at 2,425 feet from the valley floor. The falls are at their peak in May or June but are beautiful any time of year. Three separate cascades make up the falls: upper, middle and lower (not very imaginative but certainly accurate names).

The hike to the lower falls is entirely stroller friendly, easy and fun. The route takes you through the shady and fragrant pine forest, past the base of the falls, over a bridge and back, following a stream. There is a restroom shortly after the start of the trail. Our big kids loved clambering over the rocks and fallen trees, while the toddlers alternated galloping after their siblings and crashing back down in the stroller for a recharge.

As we were there in April, we were even able to have a small snowball fight as there was still snow on the ground by the stream, despite the warm weather.

This was probably my favorite hike, as it was the perfect length and the falls are an exhilarating reward for tired little legs (mine, the kids were fine).

Mirror Lake Trail

Stroller friendly: Yes, paved

Distance: 2 miles

Trail start: Mirror Lake Trailhead, shuttle stop #17. Park at Half Dome Village and take the shuttle

This hike is longer than the others but Mirror Lake is a beautiful destination. In the summer, you will find a meadow fringed with trees, while winter and spring conjures up a lake with a little beach. If you can get your timing right, you will find the waters so still and smooth they reflect the surrounding mountains and trees perfectly and you will see why it was named Mirror Lake. I’ve never managed this but always found the place magical anyway.

All children enjoyed playing on the beach and the walk through the forest, which was full of entertaining sticks. 

Cook’s Meadow Loop

Distance: 1 mile

Stroller friendly: Yes

Trail start: Yosemite Valley Visitor Center

Cook’s Meadow is especially nice in the late summer and fall, when the oaks and elms change colors and wild flowers are abundant. The hike is flat and easy, across a boardwalk, and offers stunning views of Half Dome from Sentinel Bridge. As many of the trails in Yosemite are through shady forests, this is a nice sunny contrast.

Mariposa Grove

Just inside the entrance of the park is Mariposa Grove, where you can visit Yosemite’s Giant Sequoias. Park at the Welcome Plaza and take the free shuttle up to the Grove. When we went in April, parking at the 300-spot lot was not a problem but if you are visiting in the summer be sure to arrive early.

Big Trees Loop Trail

Distance: 0.3 miles

Stroller friendly: Yes

Trail start: The boardwalk at Mariposa Grove Arrival Area

With plenty of panels highlighting the history and ecology of the area, this is a nice flat trail perfect for strollers. The eco-friendly boards are new, following a three-year project to excavate the paved roads that were damaging the fragile habitat.

Having said that, there was still deep snow covering the boards when we visited in April, which made this section impassable for anything with wheels!

There is plenty to see, and if you have not seen California’s Redwoods yet, I highly recommend spending some time here. They really are fascinating and almost otherworldly, a gateway into the ancient past. This trail takes you to some beautiful tall trees, both standing and fallen.

We started on this trail but decided to carry onto the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail, which is two miles and not at all stroller-friendly. If you have a baby carrier (or don’t mind carrying your child) this is a worthwhile hike, which includes the Grizzly Giant and the Tunnel Tree.

Our favorite section was the stream crossing, where we spotted the gold! Once we were over the water, the entire downhill track sparkled in the sunshine with flecks of gold and made this walk a little bit magical.

Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Pass

Take the Tioga Pass (closed in winter: check conditions before attempting) and explore the eastern areas of Yosemite. Tuolumne Meadows is approximately one and a half hour’s drive from the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center but a world away from the crowds. This is the site that captured John Muir’s heart and led to his campaign to create a national park.

This area is stunning yet not too crowded – ideal if you are visiting Yosemite in the peak summer season and want a break from all the tourists.

Parson’s Memorial Lodge and Soda Springs Trail

Distance: 1.5 miles

Stroller-friendly: Yes

Trail Start: Lembert Dome parking area

This is an easy, two-mile loop along a mostly-flat trail. There is a lot of wildlife hanging out along the trail; look out for deer and ground squirrels as you go. The path leads to an odd-looking stream – peer in and you will notice the water is bubbling! The springs are naturally carbonated.

Continue to Parson’s Memorial Lodge, which is sometimes open for exhibitions (it was closed when we visited) then head down to the beautiful Tuolumne River, where you can enjoy splashing about in the cool, clear waters.

Cross the wooden bridge to carry onto the visitor center, or head back along the trail to car park.

Tenaya Lake

Distance: 0.3 miles

Stroller-friendly: Yes

Trail Start: Tenaya Lake Picnic Area

Grab your swimming gear, take the interpretive boardwalk down to the beach and kick off your shoes. This beautiful alpine lake is cool and clear, perfect for wading, swimming or even kayaking. There are pines for shade on the sandy shore. If you want a longer walk, continue down the beach to follow the trail around the lake.

Accommodation

There are plenty of family-friendly accommodations available for Yosemite but book early as the Park is popular, especially in the summer. It is tricky to balance convenience with price, as the best location is in the heart of Yosemite Valley but this is also the most expensive (and books up quickly).

However, there are lodges outside the park that come highly recommended, that will take you 45 minutes to an hour to get to Yosemite Village.

Tenaya Lodge is a family-friendly luxury resort just outside Yosemite. For the adventurous, there is a climbing wall, archery and horse riding available, while those looking for relaxation can head over to the spa. Child care is also available.

Rush Creek Lodge has an outdoor pool, a playground for kids and a games room. Rooms are bright and spacious, perfect for families.

Cabins at Yosemite to rent

Wawona is a village inside the park and has a few cabins available to rent. I like staying in a self-contained home when traveling as I am never worried about disturbing other guests, and as we can cook for ourselves we save money on food too.

We stayed here and had a great time but there are many beautiful cabins to choose from.

Wawona is approximately a 30-minute drive from Yosemite Village.

Yosemite Village

We have never stayed at The Majestic Yosemite Hotel but I would love to – the interior inspired some of the sets for The Shining and notable guests have included Queen Elizabeth II and Barack Obama. Pricey but historical and no doubt very luxurious.

At the other end of the scale, we did once stay in Housekeeping Camp, in little canvas ‘cabins’ which had beds but not much else. It’s a good way to camp without having to bring any equipment as you can rent blankets, chairs etc.

I highly recommend bringing your own sleeping bags however, as even in summer it gets very cold at night and the rented blankets did not cut it! Yosemite Valley Lodge is a good middle-ground option for families who want to stay right in the park for a reasonable price.

Food

If you are planning to cook for yourself, bring as much as you can with you as there is only one grocery store in the park. Dining is limited and casual but good. We enjoyed the pizza patio at Half Dome Village and the Village Grill Deck at Yosemite Village. Degnan’s Kitchen offers a bit more variety but if you really want to swap your hiking pants for fancy pants, make a reservation at the Majestic.

What to take to Yosemite

I couldn’t include everything here so I have made a packing list for Yosemite with all my favorite family hiking gear.

Otherwise, make sure you check the weather before you go. Temperatures vary significantly from the daytime to night and it can get pretty chilly in the evenings. Everyone will need sturdy shoes, a light waterproof and warm layers even in the summer.

Sunscreen and insect repellant is also recommended although I have never been overly bothered by bugs in Yosemite. Take a water bottle each and snacks like trail mix. Don’t forget a camera, you will want to use it a lot!

Any stroller will work, the trails I describe here are all paved so no need for an “off-roader”. For a bit more flexibility, I would also recommend a baby carrier.

Happy hiking!

The post Ultimate Guide To Yosemite With Toddlers appeared first on Tiny Trailblazers.