Horsetail Fall in Yosemite National Park

Horsetail Fall

This natural "firefall" is one of the most amazing spectacles in the Park.

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Horsetail Fall Details

Horsetail Fall is famous for appearing to be on fire when it reflects the orange and red glow of sunset in mid- to late-February. It falls off of the east side of El Capitan and is best seen from just east of El Capitan. To see Horsetail Fall, park at the El Capitan picnic area (on Northside Drive west of Yosemite Lodge) or in turnouts just east of the picnic area. You can see the waterfall from the road. Height: 1,000 feet Flows: approximtely December through April. Source: NPS website

Difficulty

Low

Distance

N/A

Estimated time

Region

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Nearby Points of Interest Around Horsetail Fall

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Horsetail Fall while the map context is still fresh.

0.1 mi away

Yosemite's Firefall

Once a year, you can head to Yosemite National Park to see one of the most jaw-dropping natural wonders in the world.

0.5 mi away

El Capitan (V8)

This famous monolith is popular with rock climbers who enjoy the challenge of climbing its sheer granite face.

0.5 mi away

E4 El Capitan Bridge

This stone bridges of Yosemite crosses over the Merced River.

0.5 mi away

El Capitan Restroom

Visit this restroom that sits in the shadow of El Capitan!

0.5 mi away

E3 El Capitan Picnic Area

A perfect place to enjoy a picnic lunch and the beautiful view.