When I first moved to the Bay Area, I remember randomly coming across an article about the famous Yosemite “Firefall” phenomenon and wondered whether I would ever have a chance to witness it in person. Through a series of small serendipities, I somehow managed to catch Firefall on my first and only trip to Yosemite two years ago. It was only later did I realize just how rare and lucky I was to have experienced this phenomenon.
What is Yosemite Firefall?
Firefall is a rare and natural phenomenon that occurs for a few weeks in late February. With the right weather conditions, the setting sun hits Horsetail Falls at the perfect angle and illuminates the upper portion of the waterfall with an orange and red glow.
My Firefall Experience
In 2017, I went to Yosemite National Park for the first time with a number of my photographer friends. Despite being tempted to choose a date closer to “peak” Firefall season, we opted for early-mid February to avoid the usual craziness typical of this period. It was also forecasted to be snowing that week and we wanted to get some winter wonderland-esque type of photos.
We left the city after midnight so we could arrive in Yosemite Valley in time for sunrise. It snowed the day before and the full moon lighted up the 120 with tempting views at each turn. In hindsight, I really wished we had to pull over on a number of those pull-outs along the way because the blue hour was just perfect. Sadly, the clouds disappeared and the snow melted by the time sunrise came around.
A photographer we came across during sunrise at the iconic Valley View mentioned that Firefall might be happening that day due to the clear sky conditions. We kept that in mind the entire day (where we constantly lamented the warmer weather melting the snow away, the cloudless sky creating harsh lighting during midday, etc.) but almost passed up on the opportunity when we were adamant about searching for some epic puddle reflections we came across previously earlier in the day.
Thankfully we missed our turn (Yosemite Valley is a one-way street) and spotted a large crowd of photographers assembled in one area along the Merced River. “It must be happening!” And so we abandoned reflection hunting and camped out with everyone.
Best decision made ever.
The Perfect Conditions
After sharing my photos on Instagram, I realized how rare of an experience I just had with my friends. Some people go for years, over several days, and still walk away without getting the shot.
If there’s not enough snowpack that winter (more and more likely due to the drought in California), then there is no snowmelt to feed the waterfall which falls 1,570 feet on the east side of El Capitan. Likewise, if it’s not warm enough during the day, then the snow won’t melt and the waterfall will be frozen. If it’s cloudy around sunset, then the sun will be blocked and Horsetail Fall won’t light up.
So how crazy is it that the first and only time I’ve visited Yosemite I’ve managed to witness Firefall? All of those ‘negatives’ we were lamenting the entire day ended up creating the perfect conditions for the Firefall phenomenon.
Where to view Yosemite Firefall
To photograph Firefall you need to pick a spot with a good view of the face of El Capitan. One spot is the El Capitan Picnic Area which is on Northside Drive. This spot is perfect for those coming with children since it has a picnic area and restrooms.
I shot at the second spot on Southside Drive about a mile past Cathedral Beach. Park along the road and then walk towards the Merced River so that you’re facing the waterfall to your left.
You won’t miss the spot! Be there during the correct time of the year, you’ll easily spot a large crowd of photographers and a long line of parked vehicles.
When to see Yosemite Firefall and how long does it last
Firefall typically happens in mid to late February with the “peak” being around February 16th to 23rd. It could happen earlier in the month if there’s sufficient snowfall and high temperatures. I went on February 11th and caught the first day. The phenomenon usually starts about 15 minutes before sunset and lasts around 10 minutes.
How to photograph Yosemite Firefall
Scout your location in the daytime and camp out as early as 11 am. Firefall doesn’t happen until around 5:15 pm so make sure you have adequate food and clothing. I was lucky and found a spot an hour before the event but I wouldn’t bank on that happening again.
I also recommend staying for a few days, maybe even a week, if you really want to capture the event. Weather conditions are tricky and you’ll have better luck when you’re there longer.
A telephoto zoom lens (70-200mm or 70-300mm) would be your best friend for this event. I was lucky to have rented one for that trip. You can zoom in for a tighter close-up crop or zoom out to incorporate more of Yosemite’s landscape. Check out my captions for specific focal lengths for an idea of what to expect. I wouldn’t recommend switching lens though since you only have about 10 minutes to shoot.
Consider bringing along a tripod and remote or cable release as well. As the sun sets, the tripod will help with low-lighting conditions.
Take in the moment
All that being said, don’t forget to take in the moment with your eyes! It’s like watching fireworks. Don’t get too caught up in getting that perfect shot and miss out on the actual experience.
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