The Firefall Season: A Spectacular Phenomenon at Yosemite National Park

This iconic park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring vistas, becomes even more magical during the last two weeks of February. Explore with us this natural spectacle.

Yosemite national park
For photographers and nature enthusiasts alike, the Firefall season presents a unique opportunity to capture the park's beauty in all its glory.

In the heart of California's Sierra Nevada Mountains lies Yosemite National Park, a sprawling expanse of breathtaking natural beauty that has captivated visitors for generations. However, there's one natural spectacle that captivates visitors and locals alike, a phenomenon deeply ingrained in the park's history and lore—the Firefall.

The Story Behind The Firefall Season

The Firefall was not a product of nature's whims, but rather a meticulously orchestrated event that graced the cliffs of Yosemite for nearly a century. Its origins trace back to the late 19th century when James McCauley, owner of the Glacier Point Hotel, first conceived the idea.

Each evening, McCauley and his staff would heap burning embers from the hotel's fireplace over the edge of Glacier Point, creating a stunning cascade of glowing embers that appeared to be a waterfall of fire plunging down into Yosemite Valley below.

As word of this nightly spectacle spread, visitors flocked to Yosemite to witness the mesmerizing event. The Firefall became an iconic tradition, a rite of passage for those fortunate enough to experience its radiant beauty. It evolved into a grand spectacle, with thousands gathering in the valley below to witness the fiery cascade descending from Glacier Point.

However, as environmental awareness grew and the National Park Service took a more active role in preserving Yosemite's natural beauty, the Firefall came under scrutiny. Concerns were raised about the environmental impact of the burning embers on the cliffside, as well as the disruption caused by the large crowds gathering in the valley.

In 1968, the National Park Service officially put an end to the Firefall, citing environmental concerns and the desire to preserve the park's natural integrity. For many, the extinguishing of the Firefall marked the end of an era—a loss of a cherished tradition that had become synonymous with Yosemite's identity.

Yet, the spirit of the Firefall refused to be extinguished entirely. In recent years, efforts have been made to rekindle this iconic tradition in a manner that respects the park's ecological sensitivities and preserves its natural beauty.


Rather than igniting fires on the cliffs, modern interpretations of the Firefall have focused on utilizing natural light and environmental projections to recreate the illusion of a cascading waterfall of fire.

The Phenomenon

The Firefall phenomenon is a rare event that takes place when the setting sun illuminates Horsetail Fall at just the right angle.

This ephemeral occurrence lasts for a brief window, usually around ten minutes, and occurs during the last two weeks of February when the weather conditions align perfectly. The result is a vivid and vibrant flow of water that appears to be ablaze with the colors of a fiery sunset.

Prime Viewing Spots For You

To witness the Firefall in all its glory, enthusiasts gather at specific vantage points within Yosemite Valley. The most popular locations include El Capitan Picnic Area, Sentinel Bridge, and the meadow near the El Capitan and Cathedral Rocks junction. These spots offer unobstructed views of Horsetail Fall, ensuring a front-row seat to the breathtaking transformation.

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Timing is crucial for experiencing the Firefall, as it depends on the angle of the sun and clear skies.

Capturing the Blaze: Essential Photography Tips

The Firefall season provides a unique opportunity for photographers to capture stunning images. To make the most of this experience, it's recommended to use a tripod to stabilize the camera, set a low ISO for better image quality, and experiment with different shutter speeds to capture the flowing water and dynamic colors. Patience is key, as the brief duration of the event requires precise timing to capture the perfect shot.