Horsetail Falls
Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park
| Address: | Horsetail Fall, California 95389, USA |
| GPS: |
37°43'44.8"N 119°37'42.5"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | California |
| Trail Length: | 1.50 miles |
| Trail Type: | Out & Back |
| Hike Difficulty: | Easiest |
Waterfalls National Park
Hike
Horsetail Falls is located near El Capitan Valley in Yosemite. Around mid to late February, the fall gains popularity due to the way the orange glow of the sunset radiates off of it. In order to witness this "firefall" phenomenon, there has to be enough snowmelt for the water to flow, and the sky has to be clear. Even a small amount of clouds could reduce the effect or eliminate it altogether.
While it is possible to view from the car, permits are now required to park at the viewing spot. You can reserve a parking permit online, but there are only 250 available. If the permits run out before you can grab one, or you'd rather walk, you can take the short walk from Yosemite Valley Lodge.
The hike is 1.5 miles from the lodge to the viewing spot and runs along Northside Drive. An extra .4 miles will take you to the El Capitan Picnic Area, where picnic tables are available, so you can watch the "firefall" and enjoy a meal. Because the phenomenon happens at night, be sure to prepare accordingly. You should take a flashlight, jacket, and gloves. The average low temperature in February is 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
More Information
Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
Read More
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park
- Head southwest on Northside Dr toward Cook's Meadow LoopToll road(2.6 mi)
Yosemite Valley Lodge is accessible at shuttle stop #8
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