How is firefall

The restrictions are in place to reduce traffic jams, which have become a problem in recent years. Each year in late February, hundreds of spectators gather in Yosemite to witness this amazing event. But the Yosemite Firefall can be finicky. Although Horsetail Fall is visible from multiple viewpoints in Yosemite Valley, several factors must converge to trigger the Firefall. If conditions are not perfect, the Yosemite Firefall will not glow. First and foremost, Horsetail Fall must be flowing.

Likewise, temperatures must be warm enough during the day to melt the snowpack. Lack of runoff is why there is no Firefall in October when the sun hits Yosemite Valley at roughly the same angle. By October the runoff that feeds Horsetail Fall has long since dried up. Second, the western sky must be clear at sunset. Winter weather is highly variable in Yosemite, however, and days that start off cloudy can clear up by sunset. You'll have to be prompt, though: Limited tickets are released on recreation.

If you're lucky enough to snag a day-use pass, you'll be allowed entry into the park and given information on where to find the best views of the firefall.

Skip to main content News. When will the Yosemite firefall be visible this year? How do people get tickets to see the Yosemite firefall? Kyler Alvord is a news writer at Thrillist. Find him on Twitter and Instagram. Or don't. On Monday, Jan. Badger Pass Road is expected to open sometime today, on Feb. Wawona Road is expected to open Thursday, Feb. Badger Pass Road tentatively opens on Monday, February 8.

The Badger Pass Ski Area is not operating. Wawona Road continuation of Highway 41 tentatively opens Thursday, February Mariposa Grove remains closed until further notice. Despite the pandemic, as well as Yosemite's closures last month, the national park's turnout for the February Firefall should attract quite a few visitors, all things considered. Meanwhile, we'll be on the lookout for some seriously hot NaturePorn on Instagram. Green Matters is a registered trademark.