Towards the middle and end of February, the angle of the sun’s rays changes Horsetail Falls into what is known by many as “The Yosemite Firefall”, according to mnn.com. The effect looks as if there is lava pouring off the side of the 2,130-foot waterfall.

“While winter in Yosemite National Park offers a spectacular opportunity to witness the national park’s unparalleled beauty, there’s one phenomenon in particular worth planning a trip around.” reported mnn.com.

Like most other weather based events, the firefall can be easily ruined if the setting sun is covered by clouds, fog, and even storms. According to The San Diego Union-Tribune, Yosemite’s Firefall has even failed to make an appearance in the “critical two week window” some years due to bad weather conditions.

To the luck of many tourists and photographers alike, the weather conditions of this year allow the firefall to glow for the last few minutes of sundown every night. According to National Park Service spokesman Scott Gedima, this year’s firefall is even larger than usual, reported mnn.com

“The waterfall is bigger than it has been in a long time due to all the rain and snow we have received,” Gedima added in the interview with mnn.com. Despite the size of this years firefall, once the sun starts to set and the show begins, photographers, tourists, and everyone viewing it’s beauty only have 10 minutes to capture as many photos as possible before the firefall disappears until the next sundown.