Overview
- Park officials project the Horsetail Fall viewing period for February 10–26, with the brief sunset glow dependent on clear skies, sufficient water flow, and precise sun angle.
- One lane of Northside Drive will be closed for pedestrian access, with parking and stopping prohibited along key stretches and short post-sunset closures possible on busy days.
- Southside Drive remains open but bans parking, stopping, passenger drop-off, and pedestrian access along the designated segment, with a primary viewing zone near El Capitan Picnic Area.
- Visitors are urged to park at the Yosemite Falls lot for a 1.5‑mile walk, use shuttles, dress for cold and icy conditions, carry headlamps, and stay on established routes to protect sensitive habitats.
- Friends of Yosemite Search and Rescue warn that larger crowds can lead to hypothermia, falls, river incidents, gridlock that delays emergency response, and added strain on rangers.