Arguably the most famous ephemeral waterfall in all of Yosemite National Park, Horsetail Falls is locating at the east side of El Capital and features a 1,400 sheer plunge. Unfortunately, the Horsetail Falls are only active for about 2 to 3 months out of the year, about the time the winter snowpack starts to melt down. The falls are particularly popular in February when the phenomena called the “Fire-Fall” takes place. During this time, the last rays of sunlight hit the face of the falls and give the impression of molten lava tumbling down to the talus slopes at the base of the falls.

Yosemite National Park, Mariposa County, California

Plan Your Trip

Get Ready to Go!

Need some more help?


Go to travel reservations.