As of today, out of season, returns ~February. Earth Exhibit tracks the live conditions and flags it the moment it is on.
Horsetail Fall on the east face of El Capitan can appear to glow orange at sunset for a brief window in February when water is flowing and skies are clear.
The optical effect depends on the precise angle of the setting sun, adequate waterfall flow, and minimal cloud/haze.
It attracts large numbers of visitors during a roughly two-week window each February.
Where to see it
A taste of where to see it. The full map, exact coordinates and the best timing for each spot live in the app.
| Viewing spots |
|---|
| El Capitan Picnic Area (primary Horsetail Fall viewing clearing) |
| Cathedral Beach Picnic Area (alternate viewing along Merced River) |
| + 1 more spot, with exact coordinates and timing, in the app → |
This is the short version
This page shows a taste. The app has the full list of where to see this, the exact timing, and live conditions for 1,000+ natural phenomena worldwide, so you know the moment one is genuinely worth the trip.