Yosemite’s glowing, golden waterfall is flowing again

abdulmanannet77@gmail.comFebruary 13, 2026

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Yosemite’s glowing, golden waterfall is flowing again

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As if California’s Yosemite National Park wasn’t magical enough, its famous El Capitan rock formation is adorned with an exhilarating phenomenon every February. The Horsetail, a waterfall that falls on the east side of the formation, can take on an unearthly glow during the latter part of the month.

During these magnificent moments, the flow of the water resembles a stream of gold tumbling down the rock face, and it is hard to believe that it is simply nature doing its work. If this sounds wonderful to you, you’re in luck. It’s that time of year again.

“Yosemite National Park is preparing to welcome visitors for the 2026 Horsetail viewing period, scheduled for February 10-26, when the setting sun can illuminate El Capitan Falls in a fiery glow,” the park recently announced on social media.

The effect is rare and depends on a fortunate intersection of events. It’s limited to clear evenings, for example, and the waterfall must be active, which tends to be a winter affair only.

Glacier Point Firefall (left) and Horsetail Fall illuminated by sunset (right). Image: Photo of Firefall, courtesy of Yosemite Archives. Fall horsetail photo by Christine Fey. — Glacier Point Firefall (left) and Horsetail Fall illuminated by sunset (right).
*Image: Photo of Firefall, courtesy of Yosemite Archives. Fall horsetail photo by Christine Fey.*

“Since the effect depends on natural conditions, including water flow, clear skies, and sun angle, travelers may want to plan multiple evenings,” the post continues.

Visitors hoping to witness this spectacular event should prepare for winter conditions and arrive on time. As for the park staff, their objectives are on two fronts: to ensure visitors have a positive and safe visit, but also to safeguard the park.

“Historically, the sunset backlighting of Horsetail Fall was little known. However, in recent years, attendance around this event has increased significantly,” reports the National Park Service. However, as we all know, more people usually means more problems, and the park service emphasizes how much visitors have stressed and polluted the environment in the past.

So if you’re heading to Horsetail Fall, be eco-friendly and follow the park’s tips for your own safety. For everyone else, I hope some breathtaking photos will be released on social media soon!