Firefall 2025: Horsetail Fall Event Visitor Guide
Every February, Yosemite National Park plays host to a dazzling natural spectacle known as the Horsetail Fall Firefall. This rare event draws thousands of visitors hoping to witness the fiery orange glow that makes it appear as though lava is pouring down the cliffside. Unlike its historic namesake, which involved actual fire embers being pushed over Glacier Point, this modern Firefall is entirely natural. For those eager to experience this ephemeral wonder in 2025, this guide will walk you through its history, how to view it safely, and everything you need to know before visiting.
Horsetail Fall “Firefall” Event in Yosemite National Park
History
The Original Firefall at Glacier Point
The original Yosemite Firefall dates back to the late 19th century and involved something quite different from today’s natural event. In 1872, James McCauley, the owner of the Glacier Point Mountain House Hotel, began the tradition of building large bonfires at the edge of Glacier Point. At the end of the night, glowing embers were pushed over the cliff, creating the illusion of a fiery waterfall for spectators gathered in the valley below. This nightly spectacle continued for nearly a century until the National Park Service ended the practice in 1968 due to safety concerns and its disruption of Yosemite’s natural environment. Though artificial, it left a lasting legacy in the park’s history.
Horsetail Fall Firefall: A Natural Phenomenon
Fast forward to the 1970s, when famed photographer Galen Rowell captured the first widely recognized image of the natural Firefall. This phenomenon occurs when the setting sun strikes Horsetail Fall at just the right angle, illuminating the water in vivid shades of orange and red. The effect only happens on clear evenings during a brief window (3-10 minutes) in mid-to-late February, provided Horsetail Fall has enough water flow from melting snow or recent rainfall. Thanks to Rowell’s photograph, interest in this natural wonder has steadily grown, turning it into one of Yosemite’s most sought-after winter experiences.
Firefall seen from the official viewing area in Yosemite Valley
Seeing It For Yourself
Official Viewing Area: El Capitan Picnic Area
For the best chance to see the Firefall, head to the official viewing area near the El Capitan Picnic Area along Northside Drive. Park rangers manage this area carefully to protect Yosemite’s fragile ecosystem, so follow all posted guidelines. You can park at the Yosemite Falls parking lot near Yosemite Valley Lodge or, if full, at Curry Village or Yosemite Village and take the free shuttle to the trailhead. From the Yosemite Falls lot, it’s a 1.5-mile walk west along Northside Drive to reach the designated viewing site.
Arrive early—many photographers stake out their spots hours before sunset. Bring layers, snacks, water, a folding chair, and a tripod if you’re photographing the event. Once settled, it’s a waiting game. The golden hour light show only lasts 3-10 minutes depending on what day you’re there, so patience is key.
Alternate Viewing Option: Four Mile Trail
If you’re looking for a less crowded and unique perspective, consider hiking part of the Four Mile Trail. While not an official viewing area, it offers stunning views of Horsetail Fall from across the valley. However, access may be restricted depending on park management decisions, so check the Yosemite NPS website for the latest updates. If the trail is open, park at the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area or Sentinel Meadow, and hike to the trailhead via the Valley Loop Trail. Be sure to respect all signage and Leave No Trace principles.
Firefall seen from Four Mile Trail in Yosemite National Park
Visiting in 2025
The 2025 Firefall viewing season will run from mid to late February, with the best viewing conditions typically occurring around February 15–20. Due to high visitor demand, entrance reservations will be required for weekends: February 8–9, 15–17, and 22–23. You can secure your reservation at Recreation.gov. If you’re visiting on a weekday, no reservation is needed, but keep your entrance receipt handy—it’s valid for seven consecutive days.
Parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early. Dress warmly in layers, as temperatures can drop quickly in the evening. Pack a flashlight or headlamp for the walk back to your vehicle after sunset. And don’t forget to check the park’s website for real-time updates on weather, water flow, and any trail closures.
Map courtesy of National Park Service
Sunlight fading shortly before Horsetail Fall “Firefall” Event in Yosemite
What To Know
Before you embark on your Firefall adventure, take a moment to prep with these essential tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly:
Leave No Trace: Yosemite’s beauty relies on all of us doing our part. Stick to the trails, pack out whatever you pack in, and if "Leave No Trace" principles aren’t second nature to you yet, it’s worth brushing up before you go.
Check the Latest Guidelines: Each year, the National Park Service (NPS) updates visitor guidelines for Firefall season to manage crowds and protect the environment. Be sure to visit the Yosemite NPS website for the latest rules and updates before heading out.
Reservations Required: If you're planning to catch the Firefall on a weekend in February 2025, note that pre-purchased entrance reservations will be required on Recreation.gov for the following dates: February 8-9, 15-17, and 22-23. Arriving during the week? No reservation needed, except for Presidents Day (Monday, February 17). Keep your entrance receipt handy; it’s valid for seven consecutive days.
Arrive Early: Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to get there early to secure a spot and avoid the stress of circling for parking later in the day.
Pack Smart: Yosemite in February can be cold, so layers are key. Bring extra water, snacks, and a headlamp or flashlight for your trek back after sunset. Bonus tip: a compact camping chair can make waiting hours for the show much more comfortable.
Photographer’s Must-Haves: If you’re hoping to capture the Firefall’s brilliance on camera, bring a sturdy tripod and a zoom lens (at least 200mm) for those across-the-valley shots. Arrive early to find the perfect angle and set up.
Best Viewing Angle: When picking a spot, consider finding a slightly angled profile view. The fire-like mist effect at dusk can be even more magical from that perspective.
Firefall off Horsetail Fall seen from Four Mile Trail
Final Thoughts
Yosemite’s Horsetail Fall Firefall is a must-see event for nature lovers and photographers alike. Whether you’re captivated by its rich history or eager to snap that perfect fiery shot, proper planning and respect for park guidelines will ensure a memorable experience. Keep in mind that this natural wonder is unpredictable—even with perfect timing, it might not appear if the weather doesn’t cooperate. But when conditions align, the Firefall is truly one of the most breathtaking sights Yosemite has to offer.
Ready to chase the glow? Pack your gear, grab your reservation, and head to Yosemite this February for an unforgettable adventure!
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