California’s Yosemite National Park is known around the world as a spectaculardisplay of America’s natural beauty. Each year, millions of tourists, hikers, and photographers flock tothe area. __1__ One of the most unique and breathtakingattractions at the park is Horsetail Falls, a seasonal waterfall that flows during the winter and early spring.
Horsetail Falls is one of the many amazing waterfalls in Yosemite, but this one stands out due to a rare feature that can be seen nowhere else in the world. __2__ This unique lighting effect, commonly referred to as the “firefall,” only happens on evenings when the sky is clear. Even a light hazeor cloudinesscan greatly reduce the effect.
Those wishing to catch sight ofthis impressive and magical event must visit in midto late-February. __3__ The firefall also requires sufficientsnowfalland warm enough temperatures to melt the snow. Thus, it is not always observableeach year, and when it is, it never lasts more than about 10 minutes.
The firefall was made famous in recent years by photographers on social media. __4__ These days, in order to view Horsetail Falls, visitors must walk about 1.5 miles to the viewing area near El Capitan Picnic Area. From there, it can be viewed and photographed in all its breathtakingsplendor.
(A) Due to its popularity, two of the three best viewing sites have been closed in order to protect sensitive plants and animals in the area.
(B) Early in the year, if conditions are just right, the setting sun lights up the waterfall, causing it to glow orange and red.
(C) They are all drawn in by its mountains, forests, lakes, and biological diversity.
(D) During this time of year, the sun sets at just the right spot on the horizon.
