For roughly two weeks every February, the setting sun reflects off the waters of Yosemite National Park’s Horsetail Falls, 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.
Day-Use Reservations for Yosemite’s Firefall
Due to the Firefall’s popularity, Yosemite has instituted a reservation system to alleviate parking congestion, protect natural resources, and create a better visitor experience. Reservations are required for each vehicle entering Yosemite on three weekends: Feb. 8–9; Feb. 15–17; and Feb. 22–23, 2025 (reserve at recreation.gov; $2 fee). Visitors arriving Monday through Friday in February don’t need reservations except for Presidents Day, Feb. 17.
Currently only 50 percent of all reservations are up for grabs, so if the dates you want aren’t available, don’t give up. The remaining 50 percent will be released at 8 a.m. PT two days before the actual reservation date. That means additional spots for Feb. 22 will become available Feb. 20 at 8 a.m.
With a reservation in hand, you can load up your car with friends and family to catch a glimpse of the amazing golden light show. Each reservation is valid for seven days and covers all vehicle occupants. The park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle) is also good for seven days.
Overnight Reservations 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. You can also skirt the reservation requirement by booking a guided tour with Evergreen Lodge or Rush Creek Lodge.
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.