Yosemite Falls Moonbow

Also known as moonbows or lunar rainbows, John Muir called the amazing colors seen in Yosemite Falls by the light of the full moon Lunar Spraybows.  Whatever you call them, make sure you don’t miss this amazing event.  According to moonbow predictions by the researchers at Texas State University, the many factors that go into this elusive display come into alignment in Yosemite only a few days each year.

These factors include: clear skies, enough water in Yosemite Falls to create sufficient mist, dark skies, bright moonlight not blocked by the surrounding mountains, and the correct rainbow geometry.

Where to see the Moonbow
There are other places you can see the moonbow.  The research done by the Texas State group is for the viewing terrace at the west end of the bridge near the base of Yosemite Falls location, here Nancy got her amazing shot with the Big Dipper in the sky.  However, Don Low got his great image from the parking lot at Yosemite Lodge.

When should you go?
Times vary depending on the day.  Here are the predictions from the Texas State University team for the brightest Lower Yosemite Fall moonbows.

Dates
Mar 26 - 29
Apr 23 - 27
May 23 - 26
Jun 21 - 25

Visit the Texas State University page for more complete predictions, including times.