'Firefall' on Horsetail Fall, Yosemite National Park, California

© Jeff Lewis/Tandem Stills + Motio

Why is this cliffside ablaze?. 'Firefall' on Horsetail Fall, Yosemite National Park, California

When nature converges in rare and glorious fashion on the east side of the rock formation known as El Capitan, Horsetail Falls illuminate as if on fire. This phenomenon can only be seen for a couple of weeks in February if you get a clear sky, enough water flowing from snowmelt or rain, and perfect timing. This ‘firefall’ only lasts ten minutes or so, and vantage points can be crowded. Horsetail Falls and El Capitan are part of Yosemite National Park in California, the second national park established by the United States. We hope this year’s visitors are fortunate enough to see this magical display.