Around the globe, throughout the year, nature creates dazzling displays of glowing brilliance. From bioluminescence to particles in the atmosphere, the astonishing results are not to be missed. Here are a few places to witness these natural phenomena.
In mid-to-late February, Horsetail Falls' water cascade glows like volcanic lava down the eastern face of El Capitan. The phenomenon occurs as the dimming light of the setting sun catches the water and reflects from yellow to orange to red.
The most popular location to see the falls aglow is the El Capitan picnic area.
MORE INFORMATION: 209-372-0200 or nps.gov/yose
The skies of Great Smoky Mountains National Park are illuminated in June by thousands of twinkling fireflies. Part of a mating display, the synchronized patterns create a wave of blinking lights.
This display is only found at the park and in Southeast Asia.
MORE INFORMATION: 865-436-1200 or nps.gov/grsm
NEW ZEALAND, Waitomo
Visitors can view a glittering underground spectacle at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Thousands of larvae radiate their light for boat tours through the Glowworm Grotto and concluding in the Cathedral Cavern. Guides offer commentary about the cavern and the history of the surrounding area.
Adventure tours offer adrenaline-driven visitors the chance to abseil, zip-line and cave-tube amid glowworms.
MORE INFORMATION: waitomo.com
Guests can journey toward the Arctic Circle to experience the shimmering, dancing canvas known as the aurora borealis, or northern lights.