Horsetail Fall is a small, ephemeral waterfall that flows over the eastern edge of El Capitan in Yosemite Valley. For two weeks in February, the setting sun striking the waterfall creates a deep orange glow known as the "firefall" effect.
There needs to be a clear sky and enough snow for the waterfall to flow for the "firefall" effect to occur.
The "firefall" effect typically starts the middle of February and only lasts for two weeks. For more information about Horsetail Fall and parking please visit the NPS Website.