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.
