Every year, between half and the end of February, the Yosemite National Park in California becomes the stage of one of the most fascinating natural shows in the world: the transformation of the HorseTail Fall waterfall into a river of incandescent light. This phenomenon, known as “Firefall”, occurs only when the atmospheric and environmental conditions are perfectgiving visitors an extraordinary optical illusion.
The Horsetail Fall is a seasonal waterfall that flows along the eastern side of El Capitan, one of the most iconic mountains of Yosemite. During most of the year, this waterfall it could go unnoticed compared to other more impressive of the park.
However, on the right days of February, when the sun sets in a precise angle, the light affects the waterfall and makes the water shine with Red-orange shadesgiving the impression that a lava flow Stay along the rocky wall.
How to observe this phenomenon and where to do it
The phenomenon is visible only for a few minutes a day and requires one combination of ideal factors: The waterfall must be active, the sky must be clear and the angle of sunlight must be perfect. Even a slight presence of clouds or fog can compromise the visual effect. Because of its rarity and breathtaking beauty, Firefall attracts every year Thousands of visitors and photographers From all over the world.
In recent years, the growing influx of tourists has brought the park authorities to introduce measures To manage the crowd and protect the surrounding environment. Since 2023, one is needed on February reservation To access Yosemite Valley. Reservations are made online and guarantee entry to a limited number of vehicles, reducing traffic and environmental impact.
To admire the Firefall, the best observation point is the El Capitan Picnic Area. From here the view of the waterfall is perfect and allows you to grasp every detail of the bright effect. However, it is necessary to arrive well in advance since the spectators begin to take place already from the early afternoon. So long as Temperatures can be rigidit is advisable to dress adequately and bring everything you need to face outdoor waiting with you.
For those who cannot go in person, Yosemite National Park offers Live webcam who transmit the images of the waterfall. In addition, documentaries and videos available online allow you to appreciate this incredible show of nature even at a distance.
