For roughly two weeks every February, the setting sun reflects off the waters of Yosemite National Park’s Horsetail Fall, creating a twilight spectacle that looks like lava cascading down El Capitan. The fiery orange illumination, known as the Firefall, attracts thousands of visitors to the park each year.
No Reservations Needed for Yosemite’s Firefall
Due to the Firefall’s popularity, in years past Yosemite has instituted a reservation system to alleviate parking congestion, protect natural resources, and create a better visitor experience; in 2026, however, it's been announced that reservations will not be required for the Horsetail Fall event, or at any time in February. There will be a number of viewing area restrictions though.
Load up your car with friends and family to catch a glimpse of the amazing golden light show—the park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle) is good for seven days.
Accommodations for Yosemite’s Firefall
No one knows exactly when the Firefall will occur—afternoon clouds or a lack of water in the falls can cancel the show. Increase your chances by staying a few nights in the park or in nearby Mariposa County or Tuolumne County.
Guests with reservations at Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village, or the Ahwahnee (or a campsite reservation at Upper Pines, Camp 4, Hodgdon Meadow, or Wawona Campground) don’t need an additional reservation for the February Firefall weekends.
For the last three weekends of February, Evergreen Lodge and Rush Creek Lodge are offering the Firefall Express—daily guided trips that bypass the reservation system and transport visitors from the lodges’ shuttle stations into Yosemite Valley, where a guide helps select the ideal viewing spot. Chairs and blankets are provided, and tickets are open not only to guests of Rush Creek and Evergreen Lodge, but also to those staying elsewhere, including the sister property Firefall Ranch (no lodge stay required to book).
Parking and Transportation to Yosemite’s Firefall
To view Horsetail Fall, park at Yosemite Falls parking (just west of Yosemite Valley Lodge) and walk 1.5 miles to the viewing area near El Capitan Picnic Area. If this parking lot is full, park at Yosemite Village or Curry Village and hop on the free shuttle to get to Yosemite Falls parking or Yosemite Valley Lodge, then walk 1.5 miles. Make sure you have sturdy shoes that can handle ice and snow, warm clothes, and a flashlight or headlamp for the after-dark walk back to your car.
If you hope to capture great Firefall photos, it’s smart to arrive early in the day to stake out the perfect tripod position, then wait until the setting winter sun works its magic. Pro tip: A thermos of hot cocoa makes waiting easier.
Things to Do Near Yosemite’s Firefall
If you’re planning to stick around for a few days, here are some ideas for things to do in Yosemite and tips for visiting Yosemite in winter.