What is Yosemite Firefall
Yosemite Firefall is a unique, spectacular phenomenon that typically occurs every year from mid-to late February in California. But conditions have to be just right in order for the phenomenon to occur. What does that mean?! Well, the setting sun has to hit Yosemite’s Horsetail Fall at the perfect angle, thus creating the illusion that the Yosemite horsetail falls is on fire. You have to have clear skies so that the sun can actually hit the waterfall, AND there also has to be enough snow melted so that the waterfall is flowing. Um yeah, lack of snow melt means a water trickle, not a ‘fall’! But when conditions are just right, the ensuing phenomenon is referred to as “firefall”.
When is Yosemite Firefall 2023
According to the National Park Service, you can spot Horsetail Fall’s famed “firefall” between February 10–27 this year. According to forecasts Prime viewing could last from February 19 through February 24. The best time to see Yosemite’s firefall will likely be between 5:28 and 5:40 p.m. on February 22, according to forecasts from photographer Aaron Meyers, who has shot the event many times, the best time to see firefall in Yosemite will be between 5:28 and 5:40 p.m. on February 22. If you go, please drop a comment and tell me if this is the case!!
Tips for Viewing Yosemite Firefall 2023
Reservations
Reservations will be required this time if you’re planning to see firefall in Yosemite on the weekends of February 10-12, 17-19 and 24-26. I highly recommend you visit during the weekdays as it’s bound to be less crowded AND you don’t need reservations!
Where to view Yosemite Firefall 2023
Know that viewing Yosemite Horsetail Falls has additional restrictions this year. Between February 10 and 27, the Southside Drive in Yosemite Valley will be closed to pedestrians, and stopping and parking will also be prohibited. You can pretty much only see the falls in the El Capitan picnic area on Northside Drive. One lane will be closed to vehicles, allowing pedestrians to safely walk the 1.5 miles from the Yosemite Falls parking lot (near the Yosemite Valley Lodge) to the viewpoint. You can also park and take a free shuttle from Yosemite Village or Curry Village to the viewing point.
What to wear to Yosemite Firefall 2023
Last time I went, I wore thermals, then a fleece sweater, a pair of thick sweats, and even wore a beanie most of the time. You may need gloves and you will definitely need a flashlight or headlamp as you leave the viewing point to the parking lot, which will be well after sunset, which is when the temperature drops. I thought I would need snow boots so I rented a pair, and wore thick socks which kept my feet warm.
Don’t leave immediately when the Firefall stops
If you see my latest reel on my instagram page, you’ll know what I mean! We all thought the show had ended when the firefall stopped glowing. Everyone packed up. A few minutes later the falls started glowing again! The crowds started yelling and clapping (well at least the ones who hadn’t left to the parking lot). So don’t leave immediately. Stay for at least 5-10 minutes before you pack up.
Best Lens to Photograph Firefall in Yosemite
I often get asked what lens should one take for photographing firefall in Yosemite. The answer to this is “it depends”. If there are a few clouds which add drama to the scene, then you want a 24-70 to capture a wider shot. If there are no interesting clouds and just a flat colorless sky, then use a telephoto lens like the 70-200 to eliminate the negative space (sky) and focus on the horsetail falls on fire. To see the Yosemite Firefall video, check out my instagram page.
Conclusion
If you’re going, remember to leave no trace, pack out all your trash, exercise patience with the large crowds and have a positive attitude. Everyone deserves to see this truly amazing phenomenon and everyone belongs in national parks!
