Yosemite Elopement Guide & Locations for 2025
HOW TO ELOPE IN YOSEMITE: TOP LOCATIONS, PACKAGES & WHEN TO ELOPE
Are you stoked for a Yosemite elopement that will leave you breathless? Well, buckle up because you’ve stumbled upon the ultimate Yosemite elopement guide to making your dreams a reality! Picture this: a sprawling glacial-carved valley adorned with epic waterfalls, the mighty Merced River coursing through Yosemite valley, ancient giants sequoias—and, of course, the iconic Half Dome looming over it all. Yosemite isn’t just a destination; it’s a playground for adventurers, backpackers, artists, and, of course, elopers like yourself! With its awe-inspiring beauty and natural wonders, Yosemite sets the stage for an elopement experience unlike any other.
And it’s not just hikers and nature buffs flocking here—Yosemite has also become a top pick for elopements and weddings. But fear not! Bringing on board a Yosemite elopement photographer? That’s your golden ticket to leveling up your Yosemite elopement experience, no doubt about it! Keep reading for all the juicy details on the best seasons, vendors, costs, permits, and every other detail you need to know about eloping in Yosemite. Keep reading for the full scoop!
“Sean knew spots in Yosemite that you wouldn’t even know were there. Most importantly for us, he made us feel comfortable and at ease. We had so much fun just talking to him about everything and anything, which helped us feel more relaxed when having to pose for photos. If you’re not good with posing (I’m not), don’t worry, he will suggest poses for you. The photos in Yosemite turned out UNBELIEVABLE. Everyone loves them! Personally, I’m convinced he’s a magician. I don’t know how he does it, but he knows how to catch the perfect lighting at the right angle with a gorgeous backdrop, all while talking to you and making you feel like you’ve been friends with him your whole life!”
PLANNING YOUR YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT – STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
- According to NPS.gov, there are thirteen designated wedding ceremony locations within Yosemite National Park—but heads up: permits are required, and entrance fees won’t be waived for guests or newlyweds. So if you’re planning a Yosemite elopement, plan ahead and book your permits early! These spots fill up fast, especially in peak season.
- There’s only one main road that loops through the valley, so if you’re rolling in with guests, communicate with them about parking, timelines, and park entrance fees. You don’t want Uncle Bob circling for an hour while you’re trying to say your vows. Yosemite saw over 3.29 million visitors in 2021, according to to statista.com, so traffic is real, and planning is everything.
- Timeliness is KEY for your big day. Want those quiet, crowd-free moments? You’ve got to beat the tourists and be on it with your timeline. Bonus tip: you can get free entry into the park before 7 AM on weekdays—which also happens to be perfect for that dreamy early light.
- And while pets aren’t allowed at ceremony sites, they are welcome in certain areas of Yosemite National Park! So if you’re dreaming of including your pup in some post-ceremony portraits, you’re in luck—just plan it out accordingly.
- Lastly, let’s keep this place wild and beautiful—respect the park and follow Leave No Trace principles. Pack it in, pack it out, and leave Yosemite better than you found it. This park is sacred, and your love story deserves to be part of that legacy.
“Once our Yosemite elopement came, we were overwhelmed with how easy Sean was to shoot with. He captured us, and our family, beautifully. More importantly, he captured all of Yosemite perfectly! We are super grateful for all of Sean’s help leading up to, on the day of, and after the wedding. It never gets old showing people photos from our Yosemite elopement and hearing “That looks photoshopped!” or “Is that real?!”. Book Sean for your Yosemite elopement, you won’t regret it!”
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO ELOPE IN YOSEMITE?
SPRING ELOPEMENTS IN YOSEMITE
Spring is a dream for Yosemite elopements, with waterfalls at their peak and meadows bursting with life—best from late April to mid-May. Summer brings long days and easy access to the park, but with school out, expect heavier crowds, hotter temps, and the potential for wildfire-related closures. The middle of the day can be tricky for photos, as the harsh light floods the valley, so plan for sunrise or sunset to capture Yosemite at its best.
FALL ELOPEMENTS IN YOSEMITE
Fall is a stunner, with golden hues and crisp air, especially in late October, though road closures to Glacier and Taft Point often begin in November. Winter turns Yosemite into a quiet, snow-dusted wonderland, offering solitude and the chance to see Half Dome covered in white—just keep in mind that Glacier and Taft Point are closed for the season. For the best lighting, aim for higher viewpoints like Glacier or Taft Point at sunrise or sunset, since the valley floor tends to miss those golden-hour moments.
WINTER ELOPEMENTS IN YOSEMITE
Winter in Yosemite brings snow-dusted peaks, and a quiet, romantic vibe you won’t find in peak seasons. While Glacier and Taft Point are closed, the valley still offers stunning backdrops and cozy, intimate spots. It’s a great option for California couples eloping in Yosemite who can easily pivot plans with changing weather and chase those perfect snowy moments.
AVOID BUSY SEASON
Summer brings long days and easy access to the park, but with school out and families flocking to Yosemite for vacation, expect heavier crowds, hotter temps, and the potential for wildfire-related closures. It’s a beautiful time of year, but the increased foot traffic can make popular spots feel packed—especially mid-day when the valley gets flooded with both light and people.
WHAT’S THE BEST TIME OF DAY?
Yosemite’s magic lies in its stunning valley, but here’s a little secret: sunrise light doesn’t hit the valley floor at the usual “sunrise” time. For those epic sunrise or sunset shots, you’ve got to rise above—head to Glacier Point or Taft Point. While the valley might miss that early light, the upside is you can snag some extra sleep! So, for those breathtaking shots, remember: the higher, the better.
“Our Yosemite elopement was full of laughter, deep conversations. Throughout it all, Sean provided positivity, flexibility, efficiency, and exclamations every time he captured us kissing. His kindness and respect towards our families brought everyone together. We were never self-conscious when he posed us, never stressed about what would be next, and never disappointed with what he had planned. When we received the edited photographs, we were blown away by the breathtaking and intimate shots. Sean is an artist first and foremost, which sets him apart from all the other Yosemite elopement photographers out there. We are overjoyed to look the photos every day!”
POPULAR YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS
Yosemite is designed to encapsulate all the joy, adventure, and love within one picturesque setting. Its elopement ceremony locations are strategically laid out, allowing you to explore the valley seamlessly before or after your ceremony. Once your vows are exchanged, bask in the gentle sunlight rising above Half Dome, followed by a delightful breakfast at the Ahwahnee Hotel.
As mentioned earlier, you can exchange vows in one spot and capture memories elsewhere afterward. Yosemite, being vast, offers numerous secluded spots away from the crowds and even has it’s open Chapel on the valley floor!
Explore my Yosemite elopement wedding locations along with other designated ceremony spots on the list below!
“Sean’s photo skills are something else. He truly knows his way around the most beautiful spots around Yosemite and how to capture couples in their element. It’s been a few months since we got our pictures back and we can’t decide which ones to print! Thank you Sean for helping make our Yosemite elopement day an unforgettable one!”
TAFT POINT YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT
Man, Taft Point at sunset for elopements? It’s a total game-changer, especially in the spring through fall months. Picture this: you’re standing on the edge, feeling the rush of adrenaline as the sun paints the sky in hues of fire. And as the sun dips behind the peaks, you’re left basking in the glow, hiking back under a blanket of stars. It’s like nature’s own slingshot of epic! Seriously though, Taft Point is THE spot for sunset elopements. It’s iconic, it’s breathtaking, and it’s the perfect backdrop for saying your vows. With killer views of El Capitan and the valley spread out below, it’s a moment you’ll never forget.
Pro tip: aim for a weekday. The weekend crowds can be next-level up here, and if you’re craving some alone time, you’ll want to dodge the masses. Trust me, it’s worth it for that extra dose of intimacy!
“As Adam and I were driving to meet Sean bright and early at 7AM in Yosemite, we agreed to let go and trust Sean
with every location, angle and pose because his work is phenomenal as far as we had seen. Our wedding was
only 2 weeks ago and we have already received the pictures and we are over the moon at the quality and
expertise of Sean’s work. On top of this, our elopement was incredibly more than a photoshoot. Sean was more
than a photographer. He was a friend and vibe-bringer. The way he constructed the day, and the spiels he had
to say to us both together and individually centered us on the reason we were together – our marriage. We felt
the last thing the day was, was a photoshoot.”
GLACIER POINT AMPHITHEATER YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT
Glacier Point is probably the place where you can capture the most iconic elopement shot of Half Dome and is best from early summer to end of fall. It’s such an epic location and always leaves me in awe. I particularly love Glacier Point elopements at sunrise when the sun emerges from the western side, illuminating the foreground beautifully. It’s absolutely perfect! Additionally, Glacier Point great location if you plan to include family since it’s easily accessible by car and walking.
There’s also plenty of room for exploration on your elopement near Glacier Point if you’re interested in hiking or driving up the road towards Washburn Point. You can also avoid the crowds by opting for the 9.6-mile hike up from the valley in the springtime before the roads open up! This route isn’t for the faint of heart, though; it’s perfect for couples who thrive on a good challenge and are cool with hiking under the stars. If that sounds like your vibe, this could be your ultimate elopement experience!
EL CAPITAN MEADOW
Glacier and Taft might offer the best views, but you can’t beat exploring Yosemite Valley for your elopement. El Capitan Meadow surrounds you with waterfalls, beautiful trees, and thousands of feet of granite, depending on the season. This is also a great spot to set up a picnic and bring out the binoculars to check out the climbers. You can literally sit here all day, staring at the granite walls as you enjoy some of your favorite cheeses and bask in the sun for your elopement. Exploring the meadows of Yosemite should be a requirement for anyone getting married in Yosemite!
CATHEDRAL BEACH
Cathedral Beach serves up one of the best views of El Capitan in the whole park—it’s pure Yosemite elopement magic. You can have up to 50 guests, making it one of the bigger ceremony spots. Just keep the season in mind: spring brings high water, while fall gives you full beach access (my personal favorite!).
Pro tip: bring a wide lens and some binoculars—post-ceremony climber spotting is half the fun!
YOSEMITE FALLS
Yosemite Falls is one of the most popular elopement spots in all of Yosemite. The waterfall can be loud and busy during the summer months but it is right next to the Yosemite Valley Lodge and is very accessible for friends and family. I would suggest planning on spring through early summer to capture the best views of the falls. Just be prepared to get wet!
BRIDAL VEIL FALLS
An awe-inspiring place to hold your elopement ceremony in Yosemite as Bridal Veil falls towers and gushes above you. This area also has some woodsy vibes just below the waterfall where you can take intimate photos. (be prepared for mist!) And they have made a new ramp area for family ceremonies that is absolutely stunning. I usually recommend going here midday or afternoon when the sun hits the falls and plan on early summer when the water is really going!
TUNNEL VIEW
Tunnel View is undeniably one of Yosemite National Park’s hottest spots, and it’s not hard to see why! This vista holds its own as one of Yosemite’s prime wedding locations, offering a panoramic showcase of the park’s stunning beauty in one single frame. With El Capitan commanding the left, Half Dome reigning center stage, and Bridal Veil Falls gracing the right, it’s Yosemite encapsulated in one spot! But beware, Tunnel View is known for its tourist frenzy due to its accessibility and epic beauty. While it’s perfect for a first look or some quick snaps, I would not recommend it for your ceremony. Plan to arrive early to beat the crowds and truly soak in the magic!
SENTINEL DOME
Looking to ditch the crowds at Taft Point but still crave those jaw-dropping sunset views? Sentinel Dome is where it’s at. Tucked high above the valley floor, this spot gives you 360° views that’ll make your jaw drop—and the best part? Way fewer people. You still get those golden-hour vibes stretching forever across Yosemite, but with room to breathe, explore, and actually be in the moment with your partner. It’s one of those places that just feels like magic.
SWINGING BRIDGE PICNIC AREA
Swinging Bridge is an absolute gem—especially in the spring when Yosemite Falls is raging and the whole valley feels alive. I usually recommend timing it a bit before midday when the sun starts spilling into the valley and lighting everything up. It’s one of those spots that just glows. Plus, it’s perfect for couples eloping with family since it can hold up to 20 people. Just a heads up—parking is super limited, so have your crew roll in early to snag a spot and soak in the views.
Our elopement was in Yosemite. I was pretty apprehensive at first being so far away from the location but Sean made the whole process seamless by recommending the best vendors and guiding us through the application, license, and permit process. I’m not photogenic and typically get very awkward in front of the camera, but Sean did a great job of making me feel comfortable and confident and the results as you can see are absolutely phenomenal. In addition to his expert photography skills, he is extremely personable and made us feel like we were lifelong friends. We couldn’t have picked a better photographer to explore Yosemite, swap stories, document our union, and drink scotch with all the while gazing at the sunset over the gorgeous granite peaks.”
YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT PERMIT AND RULES
Eloping in Yosemite? Buckle up for the permit talk! Every National Park demands a wedding permit, but here’s the deal: Yosemite’s got the smoothest process in my book. Shoutout to Katherine in the permit office – she’s been the permit queen since forever, and I’ve never hit a snag with approvals. However, Yosemite’s a hot spot for elopements and weddings alike, so snag your date and location pronto. Time is of the essence, my friends! 2025 UPDATE: Yosemite no longer requires portrait photography permits for non-ceremony bridal shoots within the park.
REVIEW CEREMONY LOCATIONS
Yosemite has a list of approved wedding spots that come with seriously epic views. But if you’ve got a group of 10 people or less, you can actually request a location not listed on the official ceremony list—perfect if there’s a quiet corner of the park you’ve fallen in love with.
SPECIAL USE PERMIT & APPLICATION
To get married in Yosemite, you’ll need a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service. It costs $150, and you can apply up to a year in advance, but no later than 21 days before your date. Lock it in early—especially if you’ve got your heart set on a specific spot!
HIRE AN OFFICIANT & WITNESS
California doesn’t allow self-solemnization, so you’ll need an officiant to legally marry you. Whether it’s a pro or a friend who gets ordained online, make sure they’re cool with hiking, early mornings – this is Yosemite, after all.
MARRIAGE LICENSE
You can grab your marriage license from any California county, and it’s valid right away—no waiting period. Just bring valid ID, show up in person, and plan ahead so you’re not scrambling last minute. After the ceremony, your officiant takes care of mailing it in.
YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT WEDDING PACKAGES
As your expert photographer and seasoned Yosemite specialist, I’ve guided countless couples, just like you, in crafting their dream Yosemite elopement. I pride myself on fostering genuine connections with each pair I work with, aiming to become more than just a vendor but a trusted confidant in your elopement journey. Take a moment to explore the various packages I offer – I want you to feel completely confident and excited about embarking on your elopement in Yosemite with me by your side!
MARIPOSA ELOPEMENT PACKAGE
PERFECT FOR: Those who are looking to adventure hard in the paint while basking in every moment of their elopement glory.
COVERAGE: 6-8 HOURS – This will allow you plenty of time for exploring, first look, ceremony, first dance and every other elopement activity!
$6,000
SUNRISE & SUNSET PACKAGE
PERFECT FOR: Couples who are dreaming of an epic sunrise elopement in Yosemite Valley and capping it off at sunset exploring and star gazing near Taft or Glacier!
COVERAGE: Majority of couples do sunrise at Glacier Point and do sunset at Taft with photos in the valley in between! Expect 10-12 total hours
$10,000
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN MY YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT PACKAGES?
Yosemite Elopement Pricing:
- STARTING @ $6,000 – Check out my Yosemite elopement packages above!
- ALL-DAY COVERAGE: There is a reason people travel from all over the world to check out Yosemite – because it’s epic! Let’s spend the day together roaming the park and hitting all of the hot spots for your awesome photos.
- YOSEMITE LOCATION IDEAS: I’ll help come up with a timeline to make sure we don’t miss out on my favorite spots in the park based on your preferences like hiking distance, elevation, scenery, and features.
- YOSEMITE WEDDING PERMIT AND MAP INFORMATION: After booking, I’ll walk you through the permit process and help you lock in your Yosemite elopement location!
- YOSEMITE VENDOR RECOMMENDATIONS: I’ve teamed up with an amazing group of vendors who specialize in Yosemite elopements. Not only do these people crush it at their jobs but they will share their love and passion for Yosemite with backstories about the park and its history.
- YOSEMITE TIMELINE: I’ll help you whip up a timeline to map out the entire day so you don’t miss a view or beat within the park!
- PHOTO TEASERS: Wake up the next day with some photo teasers to share with friends, family, and the gram!
- ONLINE PHOTO GALLERY: You’ll receive an online gallery 6-8 weeks after your elopement with all of your fully edited photos from your Yosemite elopement!
- YOSEMITE WEDDING CONSULTING: Guess who is going to be there planning every step of the way? ME! Don’t worry about planning and coordinating your Yosemite elopement on your own. I will help guide you through the process and make sure you get to show up and enjoy your day without much planning on the front end!
“Sean has a magnetic personality and you can tell how much pride he takes in his craft. He’s extremely communicative, a great listener, and so incredibly talented. My husband and I were lucky enough to have him for two days for our elopement in Yosemite. The first time we met face-to-face was at 3:30 am at the trailhead and I was thinking, “Well hopefully we all like each other!” At the end of the second day when we said our goodbyes, Sean felt like an old friend.”
YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT VENDORS
Let’s be real: Yosemite is remote! Vendors will likely charge more due to travel time, but trust me, they’re worth every penny. These pros know the park like the back of their hands. You’re paying for top-tier expertise. Some couples go all out on Yosemite vendors, while others skip them entirely. Honestly, there’s no right or wrong way to do it!
Here are some of the vendor options I can CONNECT you with for my Yosemite elopement packages:
VIDEOGRAPHERS
I’ve got some seriously talented videographers who match my Yosemite photography style perfectly. There are so many cool sites and sounds around Yosemite that video really pops compared to other elopement spots I’ve worked at.
YOSEMITE FLORISTS
Flowers can add a burst of color and elevate the photos of your Yosemite elopement. With so much natural beauty to draw inspiration from in the mountains for each season, local florists will help you pinpoint your vision through consultations. And because Yosemite has so many colourful seasons, you can choose a number of different bouquet pallet options!
HAIR & MAKEUP
Hair and makeup can get pricey in Yosemite because of the travel fees, but I’ve got you covered with a fantastic hiking hair and makeup artist who will stick with you all day for touch-ups. It’s the perfect way to keep you looking fresh for your Yosemite elopement!
DESSERTS
You’ll probably need to grab your desserts on the way in since there aren’t many towns near Yosemite. But don’t worry—you’ll find plenty of options of cakes and cupcakes depending on your route!
YOSEMITE OFFICIANTS
Yosemite officiants truly stand out. Not only do they excel in their roles, but they also possess a deep understanding of Yosemite’s rich history, ensuring your ceremony is both incredible and packed with fascinating fun facts. In California, you need an officiant to get legally married, and many Yosemite officiants will handle the paperwork afterward!
“Sean was absolutely incredible! We eloped in Yosemite National Park, and he was beyond helpful with planning every step of the way—including navigating the permit process. On our big day, he captured every emotion so perfectly and knew exactly where to take us to avoid the crowds, making it feel like we had the whole place to ourselves. We had never done a photoshoot before, but Sean’s energy and guidance made us feel completely at ease—he’s the ultimate hype man!”
HOW MUCH DOES A YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT COST?
According to Zola‘s 2025 report, the average cost of a wedding is $36,000, which is up $3,000 from the year before. The cost of eloping in Yosemite? Well, that’s as unique as each couple themselves! What might be a priority cost-wise for one couple might not even make the radar for another. Here’s a little insider photographer tip: vendors in Yosemite? They tend to hike up their prices because getting in and out of the park isn’t exactly a walk in the park. So quite a few of my couples opt to skip the glam squad with hair and makeup. But again, this is completely up to each couple!
Looking for a general ballpark of what you can expect your elopement to cost in Yosemite? Check out below!
- YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHERS
- $6,000
- YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT PERMIT
- $250 – Yosemite requires a wedding permit to get in married in the park. This permit not only gives money back to the park but allows you your designated ceremony spot for your big day.
- HAIR & MAKEUP
- $300 – $600 – Yosemite hair and makeup artists will most likely require a travel fee because of the distance from where they live. I would budget on the higher end for this type of vendor.
- MARRIAGE LICENSE
- $60 – Mariposa County is going to be the closest place to obtain a marriage license for your Yosemite elopement.
- YOSEMITE WEDDING OFFICIANT
- $400 + – Yosemite officiants are like no other. These folks are not only awesome at their jobs but are full of knowledge about the history of Yosemite. You can expect an amazing ceremony with lots of fun facts with these guys!
- YOSEMITE LODGING
- $500 – $3,000 – Yosemite has some cheaper options for lodging outside of the park or you can ball out with a place right inside the valley. It’s completely up to you! Check out this guide for help!
- PRIVATE CHEF FOR DINNER
- $200 – $400 – Private chefs are the rage right now and make for a stress-free dinner option. They can even come right to your cabin and cook your dinner under the open California skies!
- FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS
- $275 – $1500 – I’ve worked with some amazing florists for Yosemite elopements. They can range from $275 and up depending on your group size.
- YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATIONS
- Getting to Yosemite is pretty easy all things considered but you have to take into account your travel costs. If you are traveling from out of state, you can expect to pay for flights, food, a car rental, lodging, etc. – A lot of couples go in on a big cabin and split it with friends and family to cut down on costs for their elopement.
CAN I ELOPE IN YOSEMITE WITH FAMILY?
Yes, Yosemite makes it super easy to elope with family because of the designated ceremony spots. But that doesn’t stop you from having your own private adventure to get those banger photos to make your Yosemite elopement extraordinary. Check out my “Taft elopement package” for the ideal combination of adventure and intimacy with family.
Typically, I’ll meet up with couples at sunrise for a small private adventure. During this time, you can share a private first look, exchange vows, and capture stunning portrait shots. Afterwards, we can regroup with guests at one of the designated ceremony spots in the park for a separate ceremony and family portraits. I also offer a sunrise-sunset package where you can split the day into two parts if you want to start your elopement at Glacier Point and end at Taft Point!
If you want to read more about the topic, you can check out how to plan an elopement with family for more ideas.
THE BEST LODGING FOR YOUR YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT
Yosemite can be somewhat tricky to find lodging because of where it is located. The closest towns that I suggest are Fish Camp and Mariposa. These towns are awesome choices because they’re close to the park and they have unique lodging options to choose from. The Yosemite cabins and hotels in these two towns really give you that natural feels for your Yosemite elopement and can really elevate your experience.
Some things to consider when booking lodging for your Yosemite Elopement:
- Distance from the park should be at the forefront of your lodging decision. The last thing you want to be doing on your wedding day is driving 2+ hours!
- You are going to be hard-pressed to find “bougie” lodging near Yosemite, so embrace the retro-old-school options like cabins and motels. It will definitely add to the natural feel of your Yosemite elopement!
- Make sure your AirBnB allows a large number of guests if you plan on throwing a celebration afterward.
- There are lots of unique options outside the park for you to choose from for your Yosemite elopement. From camping to Airstreams to cabins, you’ll have lots of fun options to choose from!
Check out some of my favorite lodgings options for your Yosemite Elopement:
- Auto Camp – This is one of my go to lodging choices because of how fun it is. I mean, who wouldn’t want to sleep in an outfitted airstream and drink hot chocolate under the stars after their Yosemite elopement? Auto Camp is also a great place to throw a micro wedding and reception after your elopement.
- Yosemite Pines RV – This is a great “roughing it” option for those who aren’t into camping but don’t mind crashing in a yurt, cabin, or some good old fashion glamping.
- Ahwahnee Hotel – Every national park has its own hotel within the park but there is nothing quite like the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite. This hotel sits beneath the towering granite peaks and is iconic in every sense of the word.
- Tenaya Lodge – The Tenaya Lodge is located near the south entrance of Yosemite and is really the best of both worlds – close to the park and more upscale! You can even throw a breakfast or dinner reception here afterward.
- AirBnB’s – If you are looking to go the this route, I suggest looking into places that are close to the Valley like Yosemite west, Merced or Fish Camp to cut down on your drive times. You can usually find great Airbnb’s to hold micro weddings afterwards as well!
TRAVELING TO YOSEMITE FOR YOUR ELOPEMENT
GETTING TO YOSEMITE
The best way to get to Yosemite National Park depends on if you live in California or if you’re traveling from out of state. If you are traveling to California, the closest major airports are San Francisco, Oakland, and Sacramento International Airport. The closest airport to Yosemite is technically Fresno, but it might not have as many direct flights as the major airports listed before. From there, you can rent a car and head toward Yosemite!
I prefer going via the 140 route to Yosemite because I find the scenery better. Also, it’s the only route open year-round. If you are staying in Auto Camp or Fish Camp, then I suggest taking 41 from the south.
GETTING AROUND YOSEMITE VALLEY
If you’re planning to explore the valley, having your own vehicle is a game-changer. Trust me, you don’t want to be limited to the public shuttle or renting a bike. Having a car, and maybe even carpooling, is the best way to keep things smooth and seamless for your Yosemite elopement!
WHAT ARE SOME WEDDING VENUES NEAR YOSEMITE?
If you’re leaning towards a wedding venue to host your Yosemite wedding, you’ll find a selection of absolutely awe-inspiring options that will transform your special day into a genuine work of art. Here’s the scoop on some wedding venues near Yosemite:
- Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite: Nestled just beyond Yosemite’s south entrance, Tenaya Lodge is your ticket to a blend of indoor and outdoor wedding magic with some incredible views of the back end of the park with less visitors. Win-Win!
- Rush Creek Lodge: If you’re looking for some modern comfort, this one’s for you. Close to the Big Oak Flat entrance, Rush Creek Lodge is your gateway to a sleek, cozy vibe with both indoor and outdoor wedding options that even offer elopement packages.
- Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite: Calling all rustic-chic enthusiasts! This gem is located near Hetch-Hetchy entrance, hooks you up with stylish cabins and outdoor venues that’ll elevate your wedding celebration game.
- Yosemite Valley Chapel: Looking for some timeless romance? Right within the park, the Yosemite Valley Chapel offers you a chance to go back in time and get married right inside the park at the iconic Valley Chapel which has been holding ceremonies for over 140 years!
- Redwoods in Yosemite: Ready to get lost in the majestic embrace of towering redwoods? This venue is all about that serene, outdoorsy setting, giving you the choice between outdoor and indoor wedding setups.
GETTING YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE IN YOSEMITE
Hey, if you’re eloping in Yosemite with an officiant, chances are they’ll lend a hand with these steps and might even swing by to grab your license for you on your way out of the park! Still, I always recommend snagging your license in Mariposa County—it’s the closest spot to handle all the legal jazz.
Here is a step by step guide for how to legally get married in Yosemite National Park and Mariposa County.
Complete the Application:
You two lovebirds gotta make a trip down to the Mariposa County Clerk’s office at 4982 10th Street, Mariposa, CA 95338, together. Don’t forget to pack your IDs – driver’s licenses, passports, or state IDs will do just fine.
Receive the License – head to the park:
Once your paperwork gets the green light, you’ll score your marriage license and it’s time to hit the road to Yosemite for your epic elopement!
Elope in Yosemite:
Meet up with your photographer, your officiant and have the most epic elopement in Yosemite and bask in the best day of your lives!
Drop off your license:
You actually don’t need to fill anything out or sign anything. Your officiant does all of the work for you unless you choose to have a witness. But make sure to have them turn it in within the 90 day waiting period!
YOUR YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER
I’m Sean, your trusty Yosemite elopement photographer, with over two decades of traversing this majestic park and capturing the Yosemite wedding stories of more than 40 couples. Get ready because I’ve curated the quintessential Yosemite elopement guide just for you!
I remember camping in Curry Village as a kid and falling asleep to the sound of Yosemite Falls crashing down at night. Fishing in the Merced with my dad. Riding our bikes around the valley. This place is etched into my bones, and I want to help bring those same memories to you on your elopement day!
While this guide is going to give you a lot of really trustworthy information, the real magic lies in the months leading up to your big day and the magical moment we all meet and explore the park together. I’m going to show you those iconic spots while splashing in those hidden gems and guiding you around like you’re on the best adventure tour of your life. So, keep that in mind when you’re reading into this Yosemite guide because this is just the starting point to your Yosemite elopement. The real magic happens on the granite grounds.
FAQ
What are the best locations within Yosemite National Park for an elopement ceremony?
This is really up to the couple and the season, as some spots are only open during certain parts of the year, and others are more enjoyable during specific seasons. For example, Taft and Glacier Point are two of the best locations for ceremonies in the park but are only accessible from summer through fall. Other popular spots include Tunnel View, Sentinel Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemite Valley. Each location offers unique vistas and backdrops for your special day. I would recommend discussing each option with your photographer to see which one fits best!
What is Yosemite’s pet policy for elopements?
Your dog is welcome in Yosemite Valley for your elopement, but they can’t join you on the trails. This rule exists mainly to protect wildlife—dogs can disrupt natural behaviors and even attract predators, creating a safety risk for everyone. Please respect this guideline, as Yosemite is one of the few National Parks that still allows dogs, and we’d hate to see that change!
How can I find vendors and services for my Yosemite elopement?
As part of my Yosemite elopement packages, I connect you with local vendors that I have been working with for the last five years. Some of the vendors on the list I provide include hair and makeup artists, officiants, florists, and even planners who specialize in elopements in Yosemite. I still recommend reaching out and getting pricing and interviewing a number of vendors to see who fits into your budget and vision the best!
Are there any restrictions or guidelines I need to follow when eloping in Yosemite?
Depending on the time of year, you will need to get an entrance pass to enter the park during the weekends. The bypass for this is to get lodging within the park; otherwise, you will need to get a day pass. Other guidelines and regulations to follow when eloping in Yosemite National Park include restrictions on the number of guests at certain ceremony spots. You are also only allowed to get married at specific ceremony locations in Yosemite and must always follow the Leave No Trace principles.
Why are vendors more expensive in Yosemite?
A lot of vendors have to travel far distances to work in Yosemite, so their pricing is generally taking into account their time and travel. But Yosemite vendors are some of the best and passionate I’ve worked with and well worth it!
How long does it take to get your permit?
I have never had a problem with couples getting a permit but generally they don’t assign and send out approval emails until around 2 months out. This can be scary for those type A planners but it’s something I’ve been dealing with in all the years of working in Yosemite.
Can you get married on Half Dome?
Half Dome unfortunately is not one of the designated ceremony spots but you can apply for a special use permit through the park!
What are some good food options in Yosemite?
I always head over to Curry Village before or after each elopement in Yosemite and enjoy their pizza. But the park has plenty of places to stop at for snacks! I always suggest packing in your food and bringing it in to save money.
Do I need an officiant to elope in Yosemite?
Technically, yes, by California law, you need an officiant to make your Yosemite elopement legal. However, you can always get legally married back home and hold a vow ceremony in the park if you wish to avoid the legal side of things in California.
Can you elope in Yosemite in the winter?
Yes, Yosemite is opened year round, even in the winter, making it a beautiful winter elopement destination, but remember that you might experience closures in specific areas of the park due to snow. If you are going to get married in Yosemite in the winter, I would go into it with tempered expectations.
What are the crowds like?
If you want to beat the crowds then the best bet is to avoid summer at all costs. It’s peak tourist season with kids being out of school. My favorite time of year to elope in Yosemite is spring and fall!
Will you help us obtain our permit for our Yosemite elopement?
Yes! After you fill our your questionnaire, I will send over the elopement locations within Yosemite that I think fit best for your vision and give you the next steps for how to obtain your wedding permit!
YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT GALLERY INSPIRATION
Looking for some inspiration for your Breckenridge elopement? Take a peek at these breathtaking galleries for a glimpse into what your special day could entail in Breckenridge!
Glacier Point Elopement
Nick & Megan jumped around Glacier Point at sunset for their Yosemite elopement!
