You Can Experience Yosemite National Park's Firefall Without Entering the Reservation Lottery — Here's How

For a few weeks every February, Yosemite National Park experiences a phenomenon that creates the illusion of a waterfall of flames. Dubbed the firefall, it takes place on the park's eastern side at El Capitan when the sunlight reflects through the famed Horsetail Waterfall. And now, it got easier to experience.

As the firefall gained popularity over the years, thousands of visitors have surged to the park to glimpse the famed attraction. (Over 3.8 million tourists visited Yosemite National Park in 2023, which is the highest level since 2019.) With the influx of visitors, park officials have started regulating the volume of vehicles and visitors to ensure a smooth and safe experience, as well as preserving the national park.

The National Park Service released 50 percent of the reservations in November 2024, however, the remaining half will be released in a staggered fashion two days before each reservation window opens. For example, visitors looking to see the phenomena on Feb. 23 should log in on Feb. 21 at 8:00 am for day-use tickets. Visitors are limited to one reservation in seven days, and the reservation holder must be in the vehicle to gain entry. Full details are listed on nps.gov. 

Due to the requirements and difficulty obtaining the reservations, local hotels have created a helpful way to see the firefall without needing an appointment

Two popular area hotels in Groveland, California — the Rush Creek Lodge and the Evergreen Lodge — have partnered to offer a shortcut, fast-pass style shuttle for visitors seeking out the firefall but haven’t secured tickets or don't want to take the gamble of the daily lottery.

The Yosemite Firefall Express will offer guests a guided tour experience that doesn't require waiting for a reservation through recreation.gov. Best of all, the Express is open to curious visitors who are not staying at the hotel. It will run throughout February, and pricing starts at $110 per adult and $80 per child, though additional park admission fees may apply. 

"We will be offering a new evening shuttle service that transports you from the Lodge down to Yosemite Valley, where one of our Naturalist Guides will assist you in picking out the perfect viewing area," the Evergreen Lodge shares about their program. 

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