The Majestic Beauty of Horsetail Fall
Discover the breathtaking Horsetail Fall in California, a stunning waterfall that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and fiery winter spectacle.
Nestled in the stunning Sierra Nevada Mountains, Horsetail Fall captivates visitors with its breathtaking cascades and vibrant scenery. This natural wonder is a must-see for any traveler exploring California's enchanting landscapes. Witness the waterfall transform into a fiery spectacle during the winter months when the setting sun illuminates the water, creating a beautiful 'firefall' effect that draws photographers and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Horsetail Fall
- California, US
Local tips
- Visit during late February for the spectacular firefall effect.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rocky trails safely.
- Arrive early to secure the best spots for photography, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the scenic meadows surrounding the waterfall.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Yosemite Village, start at the Yosemite Visitor Center. Head east on Southside Drive for about 0.5 miles. You will pass by the Yosemite Lodge and the Curry Village. Continue along Southside Drive until you reach the intersection with Northside Drive. Cross the road at the crosswalk and continue straight onto Northside Drive. Follow the signs for the Yosemite Falls Trailhead. After about 0.7 miles, you will see signs for Horsetail Fall, which is just a short walk from the trailhead.
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Biking
If you have rented a bike, start from the Yosemite Village bike rental station. Head towards the bike path that leads out of the village. Follow the path that runs parallel to Southside Drive for about 0.5 miles, then merge onto Northside Drive. Continue biking straight for another 0.7 miles, keeping an eye out for signs directing you to Horsetail Fall. The trail will lead you directly to the waterfall's viewing area.
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Shuttle
If available, take the Yosemite Shuttle from the Yosemite Village stop. Board the shuttle heading towards the Yosemite Falls stop. The ride will take approximately 10 minutes. Once you disembark at the Yosemite Falls stop, follow the signs to the trailhead for Horsetail Fall. It is a short walk from the shuttle stop to the waterfall, approximately 0.2 miles along the designated path.
Discover more about Horsetail Fall
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
El Capitan Picnic Area
0.7 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Cathedral Rocks
1.8 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Hanging Valley Viewpoint
2.0 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite's Tuolumne Meadows from Hanging Valley Viewpoint, where granite cliffs meet lush wilderness.
Four Mile Trailhead
2.4 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Yosemite Valley Lodge
3.1 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Yosemite Cemetery
4.1 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
4.3 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Housekeeping Camp
4.5 km
Experience Yosemite's beauty with a touch of comfort at Housekeeping Camp, offering rustic lodging and stunning views in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Artist Point Trail
4.5 km
Hike to Yosemite's Artist Point for panoramic views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall, away from the crowds.
Tunnel view
4.6 km
Experience Yosemite's most iconic view: El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall await at the breathtaking Tunnel View overlook.
Glacier Point
4.8 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur from Glacier Point: panoramic views, hiking trails, and unforgettable vistas await. Open seasonally by car.
Washburn Point
5.0 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur from Washburn Point: panoramic views of Half Dome, Nevada and Vernal Falls, and the High Sierra await along the scenic Glacier Point Road.
Curry Village
5.1 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
The Ahwahnee
5.1 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur at the Ahwahnee Hotel, a historic landmark offering luxury, stunning views, and a connection to the park's natural beauty.
Wawona Tunnel
5.2 km
Experience Yosemite's iconic Tunnel View, a breathtaking panorama of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall through California's longest highway tunnel.
Unmissable attractions to see
El Capitan Trail
0.6 km
Experience the majesty of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park: a world-class destination for climbing, hiking, and breathtaking views.
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area
0.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Cathedral Beach Picnic Area in Tuolumne Meadows, a perfect picnic spot surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking landscapes.
The Base of the Nose
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of The Base of the Nose in Yosemite National Park, a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
El Capitan Meadow
0.9 km
Experience the grandeur of El Capitan from this tranquil meadow, a Yosemite Valley must-see offering stunning views, climbing spectacles, and serene natural beauty year-round.
El Capitán
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of El Capitán, a granite monolith in Yosemite National Park that captivates adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
2.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, a stunning hiking route through America's iconic national park.
Bridalveil Fall
2.1 km
Discover the beauty of Bridalveil Fall, a stunning 620-foot cascade in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Sentinel Beach Picnic Area
2.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sentinel Beach Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Bridalveil Creek
2.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Bridalveil Creek in Tuolumne Meadows, a scenic spot perfect for relaxation, photography, and immersing in nature's wonders.
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
2.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Swinging Bridge Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park, a perfect spot for family picnics and nature lovers.
Upper Yosemite Falls
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, nestled in the stunning landscapes of Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Falls Trailhead
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls Trailhead in California, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Columbia Rock
3.0 km
Explore Columbia Rock: A Stunning Hiking Destination in Yosemite National Park with Breathtaking Views and Natural Beauty.
Yosemite Valley View
3.2 km
Explore the breathtaking vistas of Yosemite Valley View, where iconic landmarks meet serene natural beauty in California's stunning national park.
El Capitan Viewpoint
3.3 km
Discover stunning panoramic views of El Capitan at this scenic viewpoint in Yosemite National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Essential places to dine
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
3.0 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Mountain Room
3.1 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
The Loft at Degnan's
4.3 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Village Grill
4.3 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
5.1 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
5.1 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
5.1 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
Seven Tents Pavilion
5.1 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
5.1 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
The Ahwahnee Bar
5.1 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
The Skiers Grill
8.1 km
Discover The Skiers Grill: A cozy dining gem in Badger Pass Ski Area offering hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches amidst Yosemite's stunning scenery.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
13.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors in El Portal.
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
15.7 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
21.5 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
24.1 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Base Camp Eatery
3.0 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Starbucks Yosemite
3.1 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
3.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
3.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park on two wheels with the Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand, an ideal adventure for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Yosemite Village Parking
4.2 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
Yosemite Visitor Center
4.2 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Degnan's Deli
4.3 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Village Store
4.3 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Housekeeping Camp Store
4.5 km
Explore Yosemite National Park with ease at Housekeeping Camp Store, your go-to for groceries and camping essentials amidst stunning natural beauty.
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
4.8 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
5.1 km
Experience the charm of Curry Village Coffee Corner, your perfect retreat in the heart of Yosemite National Park, offering delicious coffee and breathtaking views.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
5.1 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
5.1 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
5.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
5.2 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
3.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
5.1 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
Dry Creek Bar
52.6 km
Discover unique cocktails and cozy lodging at Dry Creek Bar, a must-visit cocktail haven in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Tusks Bar
52.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
53.5 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
54.4 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
55.9 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Grizzly Bar, a cozy destination in Mammoth Lakes offering delicious American cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
57.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
57.4 km
Discover the charm of Clocktower Cellar, a cozy bar and restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, offering fine wines, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere.
Mammoth Brewing Company
57.5 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
57.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Salsa's in Mammoth Lakes, offering a fantastic drink selection and lively atmosphere amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Liberty Sports Bar and Grill
58.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and lively sports atmosphere at Liberty Sports Bar and Grill in Mammoth Lakes.
Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
58.5 km
Discover Black Velvet Coffee Roaster, a delightful espresso bar in Mammoth Lakes offering artisanal coffees and exquisite wines in a cozy atmosphere.
The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
58.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
59.1 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Alley
40.2 km
Discover The Alley in Mariposa: a cozy bar and lounge offering small plates, craft cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Snowline Country Bar
40.8 km
Discover the vibrant dining and nightlife experience at Snowline Country Bar, a hidden gem near Yosemite National Park.
Take It Off Entertainment
57.7 km
Discover the vibrant entertainment scene at Take It Off Entertainment, where unforgettable experiences and local culture collide.
El Palacio Night Club
89.0 km
Immerse yourself in the electrifying nightlife at El Palacio Night Club in Merced, California, where music, dance, and excitement await.
