Yosemite Announces Reservation System for Popular Firefall Event

Yosemite National Park will require day-use entrance reservations for the last three weekends of February 2025 to manage the annual Horsetail Fall event.

During this time, thousands flock to see the stunning “Firefall” effect, when the waterfall glows orange at sunset, creating the illusion of a waterfall of fire. This rare phenomenon only occurs on clear evenings in mid- to late February, when the sun is at just the right angle.

To address crowding, safety issues, and impacts on the environment, Yosemite will implement a reservation system on the weekends of February 8–9, February 15–17, and February 22–23, 2025. This reservation requirement applies to all visitors, even those not specifically visiting Horsetail Fall. No reservations are needed for weekday entry, except on Monday, February 17.

Reservations open on November 18 at 8 am PT, with 50% of slots available for all three weekends at Recreation.gov. The remaining 50% will be available two days before each entry date.

Those with reservations for lodging or campgrounds in the park do not need a separate entrance reservation. Campground bookings for Camp 4, Hodgdon Meadow, and Wawona will open on December 15 at 7 am PT on Recreation.gov.

For more details, visit NPS Yosemite Reservations.