Yosemite Firefall 2026: What You Need to Know (And What I Wish I Posted Sooner)
Every February, something magical happens in Yosemite National Park. The setting sun hits Horsetail Fall just right, transforming it into a fiery cascade that looks like molten lava. It’s called the Yosemite Firefall, and it draws nature lovers, photographers, and bucket-list chasers from all over the world.
I meant to share this in January so you could plan your trip in advance, but you know how life goes. So, here I am, posting this in mid-February, right as the Firefall is peaking.
But don’t worry—this guide is perfect for planning your trip next year (or snagging a last-minute reservation for this weekend if you’re quick).
What Is the Yosemite Firefall?
Firefall is a natural phenomenon that occurs when the setting sun illuminates Horsetail Fall, creating an orange glow that looks like flowing lava. It happens only in mid-to-late February when several conditions align:
Clear skies at sunset
Flowing water in Horsetail Fall (dependent on recent snowmelt)
That perfect angle of sunlight
The Best Viewing Dates:
Peak Firefall displays usually occur between February 8 – 23.
The best time to see the glow is about 10-15 minutes before sunset (around 5:30 PM in February).
Firefall Reservation & Permit Requirements
Because the Firefall has become wildly popular, Yosemite now requires reservations for peak weekends.
For 2025, reservations were required on:
February 8-9
February 15-17 (President’s Day Weekend)
February 22-23
Last Chance for 2025:
The final batch of reservations for February 22-23, 2025, will be released on February 20, 2025, at 8:00 AM PST on Recreation.gov.
Pro Tip:
If you have reservations for lodging or camping within Yosemite (like Upper Pines or Yosemite Valley Lodge), you do not need a separate day-use reservation.
Best Viewing Locations for Firefall
The most popular viewing spot is the El Capitan Picnic Area, but parking is limited and fills up fast. Expect to walk about 1.5 miles from alternate parking areas if you arrive later in the day.
Other Viewing Options:
Southside Drive (pullouts)
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area (when accessible)
Near the Yosemite Valley Lodge (distant view)
Bring warm clothes, a flashlight, chairs, snacks, and a camera—and get there early!
Make the Most of Your Trip: What Else to Do in Yosemite
While the Firefall is spectacular, don’t let it be the only thing you see. Winter and early spring are beautiful, and Yosemite offers so much more:
1. See Yosemite Falls:
Upper Yosemite Falls and Lower Yosemite Falls are stunning in winter and spring when water flow is high.
2. Explore Mirror Lake:
A relatively easy hike (2 miles round trip) with breathtaking reflections of Half Dome on calm days.
3. Hike the Valley Loop Trail:
This gentle trail circles Yosemite Valley and offers different perspectives on the iconic granite cliffs.
4. Visit Tunnel View:
One of the most famous viewpoints in the park, offering panoramic views of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome.
5. Relax in Yosemite Village:
Stop by the Ansel Adams Gallery, visitor center, or grab a coffee and soak in the valley vibes.
Sunrise Lovers: Start Your Day with Magic
I can’t recommend this enough: Get up early for sunrise in Yosemite. There is something special about watching the valley wake up with soft light hitting the granite walls.
Top Sunrise Spots in Yosemite:
Tunnel View: Unreal golden light over El Capitan and Half Dome.
Glacier Point (if open): Elevated views of Half Dome and the valley below.
Valley View: Quiet spot with reflections on the Merced River.
Cook’s Meadow: With snow-covered peaks, it offers a peaceful morning view of Yosemite Falls.
Swinging Bridge: Beautiful views of Yosemite Falls and the Merced River.
Final Thoughts
If you missed Firefall this year (or didn’t snag a permit), don’t worry—it will be back next February. And Yosemite? It’s breathtaking year-round.
Mark your calendar for early November when permits typically open for Firefall weekends. Plan ahead, but also leave space for spontaneity—because the best moments often come when you least expect them.
Have you seen Firefall in person? Is it on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments, and if you’re planning a Yosemite trip for next year, save this guide!
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