Los Angeles Times

It’s ‘firefall’ season in Yosemite. Here’s how to see the glowing phenomenon

If the conditions are just right, Horsetail Fall in California's Yosemite National Park lights up from the setting sun, making it appear as though the water is on fire.

LOS ANGELES — It’s a winter migration that seems to get bigger every February: Thousands of photographers and nature-lovers flock to Yosemite National Park to see a natural phenomenon nicknamed “the firefall.”

It’s a bit of a misnomer (read on), but that doesn’t diminish anyone’s desire to witness the spectacular ribbon of light that lasts just a few minutes each evening for a few weeks.

The firefall is usually best seen in mid-February, because that’s when the small Horsetail Fall is flowing with runoff from winter storms. And because the event has drawn such attention in recent years, the park is requiring visitors make advance reservations if they intend to

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times11 min read
After Scandal, Movie Producer Randall Emmett Is Flying Under The Radar With A New Name
LOS ANGELES — On April 26, John Travolta debuted his latest film — “Cash Out,” an action thriller about a bank heist gone wrong. The trailer credits it as “a film by Ives.” “Cash Out” is the first and only project Ives has ever worked on, according t
Los Angeles Times4 min read
Andy Pages Caps Four-hit Night With A Walk-off Single In Dodgers’ Win Over Braves
LOS ANGELES — Two of the best teams in baseball convened at Chavez Ravine on Friday night, the National League West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers and NL East-leading Atlanta Braves opening a three-game series that Dodgers manager Dave Roberts promised
Los Angeles Times2 min read
Three Friends Drove From California To Mexico For A Surfing Trip. Then They Disappeared
MEXICO CITY — Last month, two brothers and one of their friends crossed from the United States into Mexico to explore Baja California's famous surf breaks. Pictures posted online by one of the brothers, Callum Robinson, 33, show the men gazing out at

Related Books & Audiobooks