Want to make your Yosemite elopement planning easy?
You're in the right place!
Getting married in Yosemite is a nature lover's dream come true, but this is probably your first time planning an elopement! You need an easy-to-follow guide that tells you how to plan an Yosemite National Park elopement!
What you’ll learn: How to elope in Yosemite, a step-by-step guide to choosing the best Yosemite elopement locations and time of year, hiring photographers, getting a Yosemite special-use permit and a California marriage license, planning ceremony and adventure activities, best places to stay, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Getting married in Yosemite is a nature lover's dream come true, but this is probably your first time planning an elopement! You need an easy-to-follow guide that tells you how to plan an Yosemite National Park elopement!
What you’ll learn: How to elope in Yosemite, a step-by-step guide to choosing the best Yosemite elopement locations and time of year, hiring photographers, getting a Yosemite special-use permit and a California marriage license, planning ceremony and adventure activities, best places to stay, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Let's get started!
Hi, we're Sammie & Micah!
Your Yosemite Elopement Photographers + Planners
We grew up exploring Yosemite as locals and it holds such a special place in our hearts! We've been to 25+ countries but there's just something so special about Yosemite National Park!
We’ve been photographing elopements around the world for years and it all started when we eloped ourselves! We're passionate about creating a meaningful Yosemite wedding experience for you while we capture artistic photos that document your connection.
Honestly, we're so excited for your elopement and we haven't even met (YET!)
We’re also more than just your photographers: we’re your local Yosemite elopement planners and biggest support system! We’ll guide you through all the planning process to make it as stress-free as possible.
Helping couples plan their dream elopement, all while being present in the moment and capturing beautiful photos – that’s what we do.
We grew up exploring Yosemite as locals and it holds such a special place in our hearts! We've been to 27 countries but there's just something so special about Yosemite National Park!
We’ve been photographing elopements around the world for years and it all started when we eloped ourselves! We're passionate about creating a meaningful wedding experience for you while we capture artistic photos that document your connection.
We’re also more than just your photographers: we’re your local Yosemite elopement planners and biggest support system! We’ll guide you through all the planning to make it as stress-free as possible.
Helping couples plan their dream elopement, all while being present in the moment and capturing beautiful photos – that’s what we do.
Honestly, we're so excited for your elopement and we haven't even met each other (YET!)
Book a free planning consultation!
Schedule a free Call!
hey, real quick:
What is an elopement?
Eloping means getting married authentically: with the few people who matter most, in a setting that feels truly you. The top priority is your marriage and creating a meaningful experience.
If a big wedding isn't your vibe, and you want a wedding experience that feels personal, intentional, intimate, and adventurous:
Eloping is perfect for you
Yosemite National Park Elopement Locations
Yosemite National Park covers 1,189 square miles and has some of the most iconic scenery in the US. With the epic valley, towering waterfalls, and famous rock formations, there's SO MUCH to see in Yosemite.
Yosemite has a lot to offer, but these are the spots that take our breath away every time:
1. Taft Point
With the most amazing sunsets, and views of Yosemite Valley, it's easy to see why Taft Point is one of the best places for elopements in Yosemite. We think you have to experience a sunset at Taft Point at least once in your life!
The dramatic cliffs here allow for jaw-dropping elopement photos with a view you'll never forget. It's very popular, so in order to avoid crowds make sure you work with experienced elopement photographers!
This location works best for intimate ceremonies or just photos since there is a 10-person ceremony limit. The moderate 2-mile hike is great for couples who want adventure without extreme difficulty.
Highlights:
Iconic views of El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the entire valley floor.
Dramatic cliff formations perfect for adventurous couples and stunning photos.
2-mile round-trip hike with easy-moderate difficulty level.
10-person maximum ceremony.
Only accessible late May through late October, varying by years. See historic Glacier Point road opening dates here.
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2. Glacier Point
Truly unforgettable, Glacier Point provides a breathtaking view of Half Dome and the surrounding valley, making it the perfect backdrop for your elopement.
With 10 or fewer people you can elope at any of the amazing spots in this area. With 11-50, the Glacier Point Amphitheater is a great option, and has built in seating for guests.
Sunrise at Glacier Point is totally worth waking up early, it's truly breathtaking.
Glacier can get very crowded as well, so we highly recommend eloping here at sunrise on a weekday.
Highlights:
Iconic Half Dome views with the most amazing sunrises, only a short walk from the parking lot.
Choose Glacier Point Amphitheater for 11-50 guests or more intimate spots for 10 or fewer.
Only accessible late May through late October. Check the Glacier Point Road status here.
Ceremonies are allowed the Tuesday after Memorial Day through September 30th, no ceremonies allowed July-August, but you can still take photos there during those months.
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3. Tunnel View
If you google Yosemite National Park, this is what you'll see! The granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome, the majestic Bridalveil Falls, all towering over the forests and meadows. Tunnel View is unlike anywhere else in the world.
This is hands down the most iconic Yosemite view, but it's also one of the most popular spots in the park. The good news? As Yosemite-area locals who've photographed elopements here for years, we have some fool-proof tricks to almost entirely avoid the crowds!
This location works best for just the two of you or maybe a few close family members since there's not a ton of room.
Highlights:
The most iconic Yosemite view you've seen in every photo.
Easy access with little to no hiking required, great for anyone who wants classic views without the trek.
Recommended for 2-person elopements or photos only.
Available year-round unlike some other locations that close seasonally
We will help you avoid crowds and still get all the best views!
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Pro-Tip:
Don't limit your elopement to just one location.
Yosemite has everything: mountains, meadows, waterfalls, and forest. Give yourselves the time to explore it all!
Schedule a Free Planning Call!
Pro-Tip:
Don't limit your elopement to just one location.
Yosemite has everything: beaches, waterfalls, mountains, and rainforest. Give yourselves the time to explore it all!
Let's start planning!
4. Sentinel Beach
Situated on the crystal-clear Merced River, Sentinel Beach offers a fantastic view of Yosemite Falls and the surrounding cliffs. The combination of flowing water, towering granite cliffs, and that iconic waterfall makes this spot so special!
This is a great spot for Yosemite weddings with more guests since it can handle up to 100 people (we think a max of 30 people is best to keep it intimate though). The easy access means all your guests can make it without any hiking.
Just heads up: this place gets busy in summer, so we definitely recommend a weekday elopement in Fall.
Highlights:
Beautiful sandy beach right on the peaceful Merced River surrounded by trees and Yosemite valley views
Perfect for larger elopements with easy access and space for up to 100 guests (we personally recommend 30 max)
No hiking required, you can drive easily drive to this location.
Only open the Tuesday after Memorial Day through October 31st, October or sunrise is best to avoid summer crowds.
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5. El Capitan Meadow
One of the most beautiful meadows in Yosemite National Park, El Capitan Meadow offers incredible valley floor views looking up at the iconic granite walls that make this park legendary.
Ceremonies aren't allowed here, so this location is perfect for exploring, photos, and activities. Imagine being surrounded by flowing grass and trees, with these towering rock formations creating the most dramatic backdrop.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the most magical lighting as the sun illuminates those massive granite faces.
Highlights:
Famous Yosemite meadow views of El Capitan, Cathedral Rocks, and more.
Easy roadside access with very little walking required, open year-round
No ceremonies allowed, it's perfect for exploring + photos.
Beautiful light in early morning or late afternoon
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Yosemite National Park Wedding Location Map
Those first 5 locations are some of our favorites, but they're just the start! If you're eloping in Yosemite, the park is so big that there are dozens of amazing elopement locations to choose from!
If you're having 11+ people at your elopement, there are 12 designated Yosemite wedding ceremony locations you can choose from, but if you have 10 people or less, you can elope anywhere in the park!
Designated Yosemite Ceremony Locations:
• Cascades Picnic Area
• Lower Yosemite Fall Paved Trail
• Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
• Cathedral Beach Picnic Area
• Sentinel Beach Picnic Area
• Bridalveil Fall
• Glacier Point Amphitheater
• Chilnualna Falls Trailhead Parking Lot
• Tenaya Lake Beach
• Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Area
• Tuolumne Grove
• Merced Grove
(P.S.) Notice something about this map? Some of these locations are an hour drive apart or more! That's why having a two-day elopement is perfect to explore everything Yosemite has to offer.
Other great Yosemite wedding location to explore:
Yosemite National Park Elopement Location Map
Those first 5 locations are some of our favorites, but they're just the start! With a park as big as Yosemite there are dozens of amazing elopement locations to choose from.
If you're having 11+ people at your elopement, there are 12 designated Yosemite elopement ceremony locations, but if you have 10 total people or fewer, you can elope anywhere in the park!
(P.S.) Notice something about that map? Some of these locations are an hour drive apart! That's why having a two-day elopement is perfect to explore all Yosemite has to offer.
• Cascades Picnic Area
• Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
• Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
• Cathedral Beach Picnic Area
• Sentinel Beach Picnic Area
• Bridalveil Fall
• Glacier Point Amphitheater
• Chilnualna Falls Parking Lot
• Tenaya Lake Beach
• Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
• Tuolumne Grove
• Merced Grove
More Yosemite wedding location to explore:
Overwhelmed by all the options?
We make it easy by providing a custom list of location recommendations.
just for you!
Schedule a free call!
Overwhelmed by all the options?
We make it simple by providing a custom list of location recommendations after booking – just for you!
Let's Plan Your Yosemite Elopement!!
Best Time of Year to Elope in Yosemite National Park
Best Time of Year to Elope in Yosemite National Park
Spring
Eloping in Yosemite during Spring is seriously magical, everything is green and lush, waterfalls are roaring, and it's not blazing hot yet. Temps are perfect (50–70°F) with less crowds than summer.
This is hands down the best time for waterfall lovers! If you want incredible waterfalls and gorgeous weather, spring is your season.
Summer
Summer is the most popular time for Yosemite national park elopements, and for good reason since the most beautiful viewpoints in the park are accessible: Taft and Glacier Point!
Just know this is when it's the most crowded, so definitely elope on a weekday and work with photographers who will help you plan an elopement that avoids the crowds!
Fall
Fall in Yosemite is definitely underrated. Temps are great (50–70°F), there's fewer visitors then summer, and you might even catch some gorgeous fall colors.
This is the best time of year to elope at Taft and Glacier point since they're still open but way less busy.
Winter
Winter in Yosemite is magic! There's snow-covered peaks, peaceful trails, and very few other people. Taft and Glacier are closed but, there's still so many breath taking places to explore!
It's cold (30–50°F) so if you love cozy vibes and dramatic snowy landscapes, winter could be perfect for you! (Pro tip: fleece-lined leggings and a white shawl keep you warm!)
Yosemite National Park Elopement Vendors
Our biggest tip when choosing vendors?
Invest in What's Important to You.
Yosemite elopements don't have as many vendors as big weddings, so since you'll only be hiring a few people, they're super important to making sure your elopement experience is everything you want it to be!
These are a few of the most common vendors, and our recommendations near Yosemite National Park!
Florist
Hair & Makeup Artist
You can hire an officiant, but if you're having guests, we recommend having a friend or family member do it! It's always so special and there's lots of online tools that make it easy to do.
Choosing a Photographer for Your Yosemite Elopement
We think you deserve elopement photos that are more than just beautiful: they're authentically YOU.
Imagine looking at your photos 10 years from now and being transported back to every laugh on the trail, every tear during your vows, and every intimate moment in between. Remembering exactly how it felt to be so wildly, completely in love.
It's simple: We know that the best photos happen when you feel comfortable and you’re totally enjoying yourself.
The best part? We’re more than just your photographers: we’re your local Yosemite elopement planners!
Here's What to Expect:
Here's What to Expect:
We'll guide you through all the planning to make it as stress-free as possible! That includes:
• Choosing your perfect location
• Building your custom timeline
• Helping you get permits
• Vendor recommendations
We'll be with you every step of the way and treat your wedding with the care and attention it deserves.
Ready to plan your dream elopement?
Let's plan your elopement!
Inquire Here - Let's Get Started!
"We couldn't have picked a better couple to photograph our day."
"They made us feel so comfortable in our photos, it was a very fun time! Yosemite was perfect for us, and Sammie and Micah were absolutely amazing from beginning to end. Sammie and Micah, THANK YOU!!!! You guys are freaking amazing and the absolute best at what you do."
- Amanda & Victor
"We couldn't have picked a better couple to photograph our day."
"They made us feel so comfortable in our photos, It was definitely a very fun time! Yosemite was the perfect venue for us and Sammie and Micah were absolutely amazing from beginning to end.
Sammie and Micah, THANK YOU!!!! You guys are freaking amazing and the absolute best at what you do."
- Amanda & Victor
Yosemite Wedding Permit & Marriage License
How to Get Your Yosemite Special Use Permit:
To elope in Yosemite National Park you’ll need a Special Use Permit. (aka. Wedding Permit)
The Yosemite National Park special use permit costs $150, here's the exact step-by-step process of how to get it:
Step 1. Go to the weddings page on the NPS Website and click "download the application"
Step 2. Fill in all the basic information on the top part of the permit, then fill out all the fields related to your wedding.
Step 3. To submit your permit, mail it to the address listed on the page along with a check or money order.
Step 4. The park will review and approve your permit, then mail it back to you for your signature.
Step 5. You sign the permit and mail it back to the park for final approval.
How to Get Your California Marriage License for Your Yosemite National Park Elopement:
To get married in Yosemite you'll need a California marriage license, here's the step-by-step process of how to get it:
Step 1: Choose Your License Type
• Public License: $60-100, requires one witness. (No guests? We can do it!)
• Confidential License: $144, no witnesses needed.
Step 2: Visit Any County Clerk's Office
• Both appear in person with valid photo IDs
• For Yosemite: Mariposa County Clerk is closest
• License is valid for 90 days from issue date
Step 3: On Your Elopement Day
• Bring physical license to ceremony
• Authorized officiant performs ceremony
• Sign license (couple, officiant, witness if public license)
Step 4: After Your Ceremony
• Officiant files completed license within 10 days
• You're officially married!
Legal stuff can be overwhelming.
Our help makes it easy:
book a free planning consultation!
Yosemite National Park Wedding Permit
How to Get Your Yosemite Special Use Permit:
To elope in Yosemite National Park you’ll need a Special Use Permit. (aka. Wedding Permit)
The Yosemite National Park special use permit costs $150, here's the exact step-by-step process of how to get it:
Step 1. Go to the weddings page on the NPS Website and click "download the application"
Step 2. Fill in all the basic information on the top part of the permit, then fill out all the fields related to your wedding.
Step 3. To submit your permit, mail it to the address listed on the page along with a check or money order.
Step 4. The park will review and approve your permit, then mail it back to you for your signature.
Step 5. You sign the permit and mail it back to the park for final approval.
How to Get Your California Marriage License for Your Yosemite Elopement:
To get married in Yosemite you'll need a California marriage license, here's the step-by-step process of how to get it:
Step 1: Choose Your License Type:
• Public License: $60-100, requires one witness. (No guests? We can do it!)
• Confidential License: $144, witnesses are not needed.
Step 2: Visit Any County Clerk's Office in California:
• Both appear in person with valid photo IDs
• For Yosemite weddings: the Mariposa County Clerk is closest
• License is valid for 90 days from issue date
Step 3: On Your Elopement Day:
• Bring physical license to ceremony
• Officiant performs ceremony
• Sign license (couple, officiant, witness if public license)
Step 4: After Your Ceremony:
• Officiant files the completed marriage license within 10 days
• You're officially married!
Legal stuff can be overwhelming.
But our help makes it easy:
Let's start planning!
What to do in
Yosemite National Park
What to do in
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is a hiker's paradise with trails for every level. From easy valley floor walks to challenging granite dome climbs, imagine exploring waterfalls, giant sequoias, and those iconic granite cliffs on your wedding day!
Yosemite is one the best places to go stargazing! You can lie down on a blanket together, watching the Milky Way stretch across the sky above Half Dome. The darkness here reveals stars you never knew existed.
Yosemite's scenic drives are absolutely breathtaking. Cruise through Yosemite Valley, wind around mountain curves, and pull over at countless viewpoints. There’s something magical about hitting the road together, with nowhere to be but right there with each other.
This guide has even more ideas for what to explore!
Where to Stay In
Yosemite National Park
Airbnbs
Vacation rentals are our top recommendation for Yosemite elopements! They offer the best aesthetics, maximum privacy, and the most luxurious experience.
The Luxe Lodge: Luxury riverfront home with mountain views, a gourmet kitchen, and a hot tub.
Apex Yosemite West: Modern duplex inside Yosemite with a sleek design, big windows, and large deck.
Wander Yosemite: Spacious 3-bedroom luxury retreat inside Yosemite with forest views and modern comforts.
Romantic Forest Lover's Nest: Secluded two-story loft on 43 private forested acres with trails, EV charger, and cozy boho interior.
Yosemite A-Frame: Stunning and spacious A-frame cabin with panoramic views, vaulted ceilings, nice amenities.
Canyon's Crest: Warm and inviting cabin with cathedral ceilings, tall windows, sweeping sunset views, and cozy decor.
Checkout more Yosemite Airbnbs here!. Want some help deciding? We often help our couple's narrow down their choices based on their unique Yosemite elopement!
Good to know: We recommend staying inside the park in Yosemite West or Wawona unless you fall in love with an Airbnb outside the park. Otherwise you'll have to drive over an hour to get to any Yosemite elopement locations.
Hotels
Hotels in and around the park can be great, just note that they tend to be expensive in comparison to the amenities you get.
The Ahwahnee Hotel
With private suites and a grand dining room, this is a classic Yosemite hotel. Built almost a hundred years ago with design inspiration from the surrounding forest and mountains. This historic hotel in the center of the park also hosts Yosemite weddings on the grounds.
Rush Creek Lodge & Spa
Built on a historic property from the California gold rush, this is the best hotel if you’re looking for more modern accommodations and you don’t mind driving at least 30 minutes to get into the park. Rush Creek Lodge also has an extensive spa with massages, steam rooms, and more.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
A mid-tier hotel in Yosemite Valley with basic amenities and nice park views. The best part is you're in the center of Yosemite Village, just minutes from The Mountain Room Restaurant, General Store, and Starbucks! Rooms have no A/C so we recommend staying here only if you're eloping October-April.
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
Just outside the park's south entrance, this full-service resort offers modern accommodations with updated design. Activities and amenities like massages and bike rentals are available, plus individual private cottages to rent alongside traditional rooms.
Campgrounds
For more outdoorsy couples looking to immerse themselves in nature, you can even camp for your elopement! Yosemite has 13 amazing campgrounds to choose from. Some campgrounds are not open year-round, and reservations always sell out very fast.
Other Unique Options:
Curry Village
Rugged with just a little more structure than camping, Curry Village is a series of canvas tents and wood cabins that place you right in the middle of Yosemite’s nature.
Autocamp
A world-class experience for nature lovers who want a more refined experience. Autocamp has custom Airstreams with spa-inspired bathrooms, kitchenettes, and even private fire pits. The 35-acre property also has a 4,000 sqft common space with a pool, marketplace, and modern spaces to lounge indoors and outdoors.
Yosemite Entrances:
Yosemite has 5 different entrances with the south and west being the most popular, often having long lines in peak seasons (stay in the park to beat the line!): South Entrance, Arch Rock Entrance, Big Oak Flat Entrance, Tioga Pass Entrance, Hetch Hetchy Entrance.
Where to Stay In
Yosemite National Park
Airbnbs
Vacation rentals are our top recommendation for Yosemite elopements! They offer the best aesthetics, maximum privacy, and the most luxurious experience.
The Luxe Lodge: Luxury riverfront home with mountain views, a gourmet kitchen, and a hot tub.
Apex Yosemite West: Modern duplex inside Yosemite with a sleek design, big windows, and large deck.
Wander Yosemite: Spacious 3-bedroom luxury retreat inside Yosemite with forest views and modern comforts.
Romantic Forest Lover's Nest: Secluded two-story loft on 43 private forested acres with trails, EV charger, and cozy boho interior.
Yosemite A-Frame: Stunning and spacious A-frame cabin with panoramic views, vaulted ceilings, nice amenities.
Canyon's Crest: Warm and inviting cabin with cathedral ceilings, tall windows, sweeping sunset views, and cozy decor.
Checkout more Yosemite Airbnbs here!. Want some help deciding? We often help our couple's narrow down their choices based on their unique Yosemite elopement!
Good to know: We recommend staying inside the park in Yosemite West or Wawona unless you fall in love with an Airbnb outside the park. Otherwise you'll have to drive over an hour to get to any Yosemite elopement locations.
Hotels
Hotels in and around the park can be great, just note that they tend to be expensive in comparison to the amenities you get.
The Ahwahnee Hotel
With private suites and a grand dining room, this is a classic Yosemite hotel. Built almost a hundred years ago with design inspiration from the surrounding forest and mountains. This historic hotel in the center of the park also hosts Yosemite weddings on the grounds.
Rush Creek Lodge & Spa
Built on a historic property from the California gold rush, this is the best hotel if you’re looking for more modern accommodations and you don’t mind driving at least 30 minutes to get into the park. Rush Creek Lodge also has an extensive spa with massages, steam rooms, and more.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
A mid-tier hotel in Yosemite Valley with basic amenities and nice park views. The best part is you're in the center of Yosemite Village, just minutes from The Mountain Room Restaurant, General Store, and Starbucks! Rooms have no A/C so we recommend staying here only if you're eloping October-April.
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
Just outside the park's south entrance, this full-service resort offers modern accommodations with updated design. Activities and amenities like massages and bike rentals are available, plus individual private cottages to rent alongside traditional rooms.
Campgrounds
For more outdoorsy couples looking to immerse themselves in nature, you can even camp for your elopement! Yosemite has 13 amazing campgrounds to choose from. Some campgrounds are not open year-round, and reservations always sell out very fast.
Other Unique Options:
Curry Village
Rugged with just a little more structure than camping, Curry Village is a series of canvas tents and wood cabins that place you right in the middle of Yosemite’s nature.
Autocamp
A world-class experience for nature lovers who want a more refined experience. Autocamp has custom Airstreams with spa-inspired bathrooms, kitchenettes, and even private fire pits. The 35-acre property also has a 4,000 sqft common space with a pool, marketplace, and modern spaces to lounge indoors and outdoors.
Yosemite Entrances:
Yosemite has 5 different entrances with the south and west being the most popular, often having long lines in peak seasons (stay in the park to beat the line!): South Entrance, Arch Rock Entrance, Big Oak Flat Entrance, Tioga Pass Entrance, Hetch Hetchy Entrance.
Ready to start planning?
Let us help!
Let's plan your yosemite elopement!
(99% of our couples reach out to us before they feel like they
"have it figured out", because that's what we're here to help with!)
Ready to Start Planning?
Let us help!
Schedule a free call!
(99% of our couples reach out to us before they feel like they "have it figured out" because that's what we're here to help with!)
"Planning our special day felt effortless with Sammie & Micah's guidance and expertise. Their shooting style is pure magic: nothing felt posed or forced; every laugh, tear, and smile was authentic"
- Eva & Arturo
Let's Plan Your Elopement!
Schedule a Planning Call
Frequently Asked Questions About Eloping in Yosemite:
Frequently Asked Questions about Eloping in Yosemite:
Page Last Updated: 9/29/2025
Do we need a permit to elope in Yosemite?
Yes! All weddings in Yosemite require a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service. This includes elopements with only the couple, photographer, and officiant. The permit costs $150 and needs to be obtained in advance. To learn more and get step-by-step guidance see our Yosemite Elopement Guide.
How do we get a Yosemite wedding permit, and how much does it cost?
• Apply online at nps.gov under “Weddings & Commitment Ceremonies”.
• The permit costs $150, and you need to fill out the application form.
• Include your ceremony date, location preference, and guest count.
• Apply at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for May–October.
• For a detailed planning guide, see our Yosemite Elopement Guide.
Which locations in Yosemite are best for elopements?
Best spots include Taft Point for sunset cliff views, Glacier Point for sunrise views of Half Dome, and Sentinel Beach for larger guest counts. Lesser-known gems like Cascades Picnic Area and Tenaya Lake Beach offer privacy and beauty. Each location varies in accessibility, scenery, and crowds. This Yosemite Elopement Guide breaks down all the options.
How many people can we bring to our Yosemite elopement?
Yosemite permits allow up to 50 guests, including vendors, at most designated ceremony locations, but this varies by location. Glacier Point Amphitheater is good for large groups, while spots like Taft Point work best for 10 or fewer people. With 10 guests or less, you can apply for non-designated locations. Always consider parking and accessibility. Our guide has tips for matching guest counts to your chosen location.
When is the best time of year to elope in Yosemite?
Spring through Fall (April–October), offers the best weather for Yosemite elopements with temperatures ranging from 60-80°F and minimal rainfall, plus full road access to iconic locations like Glacier Point starting in May. Summer is the busiest and hottest time so choose May or October to avoid peak crowds. Winter is beautiful and non-crowded, but Glacier Point Road is closed. See our guide for a full breakdown of each season in Yosemite.
How do we legally get married in Yosemite?
Get a Special Use Permit from the park ($150) and a California marriage license from any county clerk office in the state (valid 90 days, no waiting period). You also need a licensed officiant and two witnesses. Out-of-state couples follow the same process with valid IDs. The officiant will submit the license to California within 10 days. Get the step-by-step process for eloping in Yosemite in our guide.
Can we have decorations at our Yosemite elopement?
Decorations including arches, event signs, etc. are not allowed. Wedding parties may use handheld bouquets and boutonnieres during ceremonies. For picnic area weddings, table decorations are allowed. If the picnic area includes a beach, a short lightweight fabric runner on sand or one lightweight mat for the couple is permitted. No other decorations are authorized.
How do we avoid crowds for our Yosemite wedding?
Plan your elopement on a weekday, to avoid weekend crowds, and in a shoulder season like Spring or Fall to avoid summer crowds. Schedule your ceremony for sunrise or early morning. Work with an experienced Yosemite elopement photographer to choose locations that aren't as popular. Check out our Yosemite elopement guide for more detailed information.
Do we have to hike to get to Yosemite elopement locations?
No you don’t. Most Yosemite elopement locations are accessible without any hiking at all, including some of the best spots like Glacier Point, Tunnel View, or El Capitan Meadow. The famous Taft Point is only a 2.2 mile round trip hike. You get great views of Yosemite Falls with just a .7 mile round trip hike to Lower Yosemite Falls Vista Point. See our guide for a full list of locations.
What should we pack for a Yosemite elopement?
For a Yosemite elopement, make sure to pack:
• Sturdy shoes with good grip
• Marriage License
• Special Use Permit
• Vows
• Rings
• Bouquet
• Water and Food
• Clothing Layers
• Sunscreen
• First aid kit
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