Hey Daniel! You are going to want to park in one of 2 places. As you enter the park on Southside drive, you will come across the "Swinging Bridge Picnic Area. There is parking there and is a good place to park as a last resort if you show up kind of late ( T minus 2 hours to sunset) (Sometimes they block this area off but you are generally safe). However the best place to park is near the Yosemite Falls Trailhead. There is a big parking area there and if you arrive early (4/5 hours prior to sunset) you should have no problem finding a spot. I recommend showing up at least 5 hours early because spots fill up fast and the closer you get to sunset, the more traffic there is and consequently, less parking. Besides, it is always nice to walk around, eat, and explore prior to going. As for your second question the best viewing area is is east of El Capitan Picnic Area. There are many places you can see the falls from, east of the picnic area, and as you are walking along Northside Drive (about 1.3 miles each way from the parking area) you will see people with cameras out setting up. Pick any of these spots. Just stay east of the falls. PRO TIPS: Bring camp chairs as you will be sitting and waiting for a few hours prior. Also bring hand warmers, warm jackets, snacks or dinner, and a thermostat with a hot drink....it gets very cold while waiting. I hope this is helpful!
The firefall was magical!
Great shots! I plan on taking my 5 year old to see it next month. Do you recommend a particular area to see it from, as well as parking?
Hey Daniel! You are going to want to park in one of 2 places. As you enter the park on Southside drive, you will come across the "Swinging Bridge Picnic Area. There is parking there and is a good place to park as a last resort if you show up kind of late ( T minus 2 hours to sunset) (Sometimes they block this area off but you are generally safe). However the best place to park is near the Yosemite Falls Trailhead. There is a big parking area there and if you arrive early (4/5 hours prior to sunset) you should have no problem finding a spot. I recommend showing up at least 5 hours early because spots fill up fast and the closer you get to sunset, the more traffic there is and consequently, less parking. Besides, it is always nice to walk around, eat, and explore prior to going. As for your second question the best viewing area is is east of El Capitan Picnic Area. There are many places you can see the falls from, east of the picnic area, and as you are walking along Northside Drive (about 1.3 miles each way from the parking area) you will see people with cameras out setting up. Pick any of these spots. Just stay east of the falls. PRO TIPS: Bring camp chairs as you will be sitting and waiting for a few hours prior. Also bring hand warmers, warm jackets, snacks or dinner, and a thermostat with a hot drink....it gets very cold while waiting. I hope this is helpful!