YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, CA – Yosemite National Park is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors for the annual viewing of Horsetail Fall, the natural phenomenon that occurs for a brief window each February when the setting sun can illuminate the waterfall on El Capitan with a striking, fire like glow. The projected viewing period for 2026 is Feb. 10 – 26, depending on natural conditions.

No reservations are required to enter Yosemite National Park during the Horsetail Fall viewing period. To support safe and efficient access, the park has established a traffic and parking management plan that will be in effect during Firefall.  The park encourages visitors to carpool and utilize commercial vans and shuttles. Visitors will park in eastern Yosemite Valley and walk to designated viewing areas using a temporary pedestrian lane on Northside Drive each afternoon.

Because the “Firefall” effect depends on several natural factors, including water flow, clear skies, and the angle of the setting sun, visitors traveling from out of the area may wish to plan to be on site multiple evenings to increase their chances of seeing the phenomenon. The park encourages visitors to arrive early, park once, and be prepared for winter conditions.

Yosemite National Park remains committed to providing a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience for all visitors while protecting the sensitive natural and cultural resources that make Yosemite and this event beautiful. Park staff and volunteers will be on site throughout the viewing period to assist with visitor information, crowd flow, and resource protection.

For more information, visit Yosemite’s Horsetail Fall website or follow Yosemite National Park on social media.