Yosemite National Park will allow visitors to enter the park without reservations during February 2026, making it easier for travelers to witness the iconic Firefall at Horsetail Fall, a rare natural event that draws large crowds each winter.
According to an article by Green Matters, park officials confirmed that no general entry reservations will be required during the Firefall viewing window, a shift from recent years when access was restricted due to heavy congestion and environmental concerns.
The decision marks a notable change in visitor management strategy as interest in the phenomenon continues to grow.
The Firefall occurs when a thin stream of water pours over Horsetail Fall and, under precise conditions, catches the light of the setting sun.
When the timing, weather, and snowmelt align, the waterfall appears to glow bright orange and red, creating the illusion of flowing lava cascading down the granite face of El Capitan.
Park officials expect the best viewing conditions to occur between February 10 and February 26, although the effect can only be seen for a few minutes on select evenings.
In previous years, Yosemite required advance reservations in response to overcrowding caused by thousands of visitors gathering along Southside Drive and near the Merced River.
According to a National Park Service press report cited by SFGate, a park representative confirmed the updated policy, stating, “No reservations are required this year.” Instead of limiting entry, the park is advising visitors to arrive early, park legally, and prepare for winter weather and limited daylight.
While the change has been welcomed by many visitors, conservation advocates have raised concerns about the potential return of congestion-related damage.
Beth Pratt, a conservation leader, told SFGate that Yosemite “is not Disneyland,” arguing that eliminating reservations overlooks years of documented environmental strain linked to Firefall crowds.
The National Park Service has previously noted that heavy foot traffic during the event has led to trampled vegetation, disruption of nearby wildlife, and damage to riverbanks, including a partial collapse along the Merced River in February 2017.
Despite the debate, the Firefall remains one of Yosemite’s most sought-after winter experiences, praised by visitors for its fleeting beauty.
In a National Park Service video, one attendee said, “You don’t get to see this anywhere in the world, I think. This is the most special waterfall…glowing red,” while another added, “It lights up like someone put makeup on it.”
The removal of reservation requirements signals increased winter visitation opportunities while reinforcing the importance of responsible travel, crowd management, and sustainable access to high-demand natural attractions.