In Yosemite, a rare event called the "firefall effect" happens for about two weeks, one week on either side of February 18th, along the eastern ridge of El Capitan. The sun sets at such an angle that the cliff of this eastern ridge is lit up by the setting sun, which can glow red when the conditions are right. A seasonal waterfall named Horsetail Falls can catch this red light and take on a glowing appearance to the point where it can appear to be on fire or like a lava flow.
This image was taken on February 12, 2017, around 5:30 PM. The light from the setting sun turned a shade of pink but never turned fully red. Actually getting a deep red sunset works out better when there is more dust in the air. The whole state of California has had many storms this season and the air has been pretty well cleared of dust for now.
This picture is one that I took on February 16, 2007, ten years ago. This was my first attempt to capture this event after I had learned about it.
Remember, it's not just a picture, it's a story!
