BLAZING GLORY
YOSEMITE'S most stunning moment happens only for a few minutes on late February evenings but draws thousands all begging to capture its most breathtaking illusion.
But is the Firefall getting too popular?
9
9
The Horsetail Fall Firefall is an obsession for photographers the world over, but what was once a secret treasure for nature photographers in the know has now started to bring in thousands, with tripods balanced awkwardly for as far as the eye can see.
The Firefall occurs for a few minutes when Horsetail Fall is lit up by the setting February sun, causing light to refract in a way that makes it look like it's a cascade of flame.
Catching it ten years ago was pretty much a miracle as it needs enough moisture to fuel the falls, skies clear enough for the light to shine through, and the right angle for the sun’s light to hit the 1000ft waterfall, east of El Capitan.
The phenomenon only lasts a few weeks and it is absolutely stunning.
9
9
9
Nature photographer Aaron Meyer was there in 2011 and since built a program that told people when the conditions would be perfect which he then published.
He told : "The clouds opened up just before sunset and it looked like someone had taken a match to the waterfall, you watched it go light up from top to bottom.
“Everyone erupted in cheers; it was the most amazing thing I’d ever seen.”
However, this gorgeous natural wonder is now being spoiled by photo-tourists, social media and an algorithm.
Last year over 2,200 people crammed into the little woods around it to watch the falls on February 22 alone.
More US Stories
A victim of its own success, people who knew about it a decade ago are now avoiding it due to the crowds of budding photographers.
One photographer, Paul Reiffer, said: "It felt like an outside concert, with everyone and their picnic blanket trying to claim their spot.
“It’s crowded to the point where you are locking tripods with each other.”
The crowds are causing litter, breaking branches, pooping all over the place due to the lack of loos, and eroding the area by trampling all over it, all to get "the perfect shot".
To resolve this issue, Park rangers have upped the gauntlet that photographers will need to accomplish by closing two of the ideal viewing areas leaving photographers the choice of marching an extra 1.5 miles to the third viewing area with all their kit.
The Firefall’s appearance this year could also be in doubt after a dry winter has left water levels in the park unseasonably low.
9
9
9
9
Do you have a story for The US Sun team?
Email us at [email protected] or call 212 416 4552.
Topics