WaterfallNear Me

Horsetail Fall

Mariposa County, California

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height
1,542 ft (470 m)
Location
Mariposa County, California
Access status
Dated February 2026 viewing route; confirm the next season's access plan.
The walk
1.5 miles one way; 3 miles return
Ground & access
Winter walking may involve snow, ice and darkness; special pedestrian arrangements apply in February.
Horsetail Fall, CA
Horsetail Fall, CA
Photo creditPhoto: Ambitious Wench, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Yosemite's Horsetail Fall flows from the eastern edge of El Capitan. Its orange sunset illumination depends on flowing water and clear February skies.

Plan your visit

For the published February 2026 viewing arrangement, walk from Yosemite Falls parking to the viewing area near El Capitan Picnic Area and return. Verify arrangements for a future February before using this route.

NPS explicitly gives 1.5 miles each way for the late-February viewing arrangement.

Winter walking may involve snow, ice and darkness; special pedestrian arrangements apply in February.

Where to start

The February 2026 plan uses Yosemite Falls parking west of Yosemite Valley Lodge, with shuttle alternatives from Yosemite Village or Curry Village if full.

Timing & water

Usually flows in winter; the illumination may occur in mid-to-late February. This is a dated February 2026 access plan, not confirmation of 2027 arrangements.

Before you go

NPS says February 2026 did not require a reservation. Future-year requirements and current entrance fees are unverified.

Visitor information
Visit sources

More waterfalls nearby

Within 40 straight-line miles. Road and trail distances will differ.

Explore California

Waterfall location

Mariposa County, California.

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