Community Corner
Marin Photographer Captures 'Unforgettable' Yosemite Firefall
Firefall happens each February but is often obscured by clouds. Photographers come from around the world to see the spectacle.
MILL VALLEY, CA — We are surrounded by an embarrassment of beauty here in Northern California, from the ragged Pacific coastline to our rolling hills and on up into the Sierra Nevada Mountains. For nature photographers, how do you pick a favorite?
Mill Valley's Jay Tamang has been chasing waterfalls for 15 years. His ultimate quest: Firefall in Yosemite National Park.
The phenomenon happens when "the sunlight streams through the thin sliver of Horsetail Falls, turning it molten orange," according to the Park Service. The fleeting glow occurs about 5 to 15 minutes before sunset and the Park Service warns that a single cloud can ruin the effect.
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"In celebrating my 15th year immersed in the pursuit of waterfalls, the Firefall at Horsetail Falls in Yosemite has been a captivating highlight," Tamang told Patch in an email.
He has photographed the amazing spectacle in the past and was determined to see it again this year.
"Choosing a strategic viewing spot is essential, followed by a commitment to wait for an extended period—typically five to six hours—in the same location. This patience not only allows for a closer connection with nature but also fosters a shared camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts, turning the wait into a communal experience."
RELATED: 'Truly Stunning' Yosemite Firefall Lights Up El Capitan: Photo
Firefall happens in late February. There was a six-day window this year to view the phenomenon at its peak.
"During my customary visit this year, the anticipation led us to embark on an early morning journey at 5:00 am. Upon arrival, the magnetic pull of the waterfall prompted us to explore its surroundings through a series of hikes. After immersing ourselves in the beauty of the landscape, we made our way to the designated viewing spot around 2:00 pm, prepared to witness the spectacle as the sun began its descent."
RELATED: Captivating Firefall At Yosemite National Park: Photo Of The Day
"The slow progression of sunlight over the water, evolving into a breathtaking display of glowing yellows and oranges, unfolded as the sunset approached at 5:45 pm. This gradual transformation, witnessed with bated breath, marked another chapter in the astonishing allure of the Firefall—a testament to the unwavering enchantment that draws waterfall enthusiasts year after year."
View more of Jay Tamang's nature photography.
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