Horsetail Fall

Introduction

Horsetail Fall is a seasonal waterfall in Yosemite National Park in California and one of the most magical winter natural wonders in Yosemite Valley. The fall drops about 300 meters from the eastern edge of El Capitan and takes its name from the horsetail-like shape of the descending water. Its most distinctive feature is its seasonality, flowing only in winter and early spring and running completely dry in summer and fall, a classic ephemeral waterfall. What truly made Horsetail Fall world-famous is the annual firefall phenomenon that can occur on clear February evenings, when the setting sun aligns precisely behind the fall and the light turns the entire stream blazing orange and red, as if lava rather than water were pouring off the cliff. This rare spectacle lasts only a few minutes each evening and draws photographers and nature lovers from around the world. Viewing the firefall requires waiting at the El Capitan Picnic Area and depends on a rare alignment of clear sky, sufficient flow, and precise timing.

✨ Highlights

🛈 Practical Info