How To Elope In Yosemite National Park
Located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, eloping in Yosemite National Park is an absolute dream for many couples. Yosemite’s breathtaking landscapes are the perfect setting for an intimate and deeply personal ceremony. Imagine exchanging your vows with the backdrop of towering granite cliffs, gushing waterfalls, and lush forests. Yosemite was designated a World Heritage site in 1984, and it's easy to see why.
An unparalleled blend of adventure and beauty that few other places can compare to for visiting, let alone getting married in! Even though Yosemite is wildly popular, I’m sure you’ll benefit from a personal touch from an elopement expert, which is why I’ve written this comprehensive guide to support you every step of the way.
How To Get To Yosemite National Park
By Plane:
The best way to get to Yosemite National Park would be to fly into the San Francisco International Airport (SFO), around a 3-hour drive away. You can also fly into the Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) or the Merced Regional Airport (MCE) — both being a bit closer at about 2-2.5 hours. However, both of these airports are smaller than San Francisco, so flights tend to be more expensive.
By Car:
No matter which airport you choose to fly to, the best way to get around Yosemite National Park is by renting a car, considering it covers a vast 1,200 square miles of mountainous terrain.
Pro Tip: Download offline Google Maps directions on your phone so that even when you lose service as you get closer to the park, you can still receive navigation. That being said, despite its size, Yosemite doesn’t have a single address, so you might want to download their specialist maps beforehand.
The Best Time Of Year To Get Married In Yosemite
Spring
Spring is the sweet spot for getting married in Yosemite! The waterfalls in the park are absolutely gushing and at their peak. The crowds are much more peaceful than summer, and the park is much more accessible than in winter. Plus, if you’re lucky, you may get to see some wildflowers during late May! Keep in mind, though, that some elevated locations might still be covered in snow, and therefore closed.
Summer
Naturally, the best weather in Yosemite is during summer. The sun is shining, the park is fully open, and there are a TON of people—like 5 million people between July and August. Sunrise is even crowded at many spots. If privacy and intimacy is something you value on your elopement day, I personally wouldn’t recommend Yosemite during the summer months.
Fall
Viewing the seasons through my artistic eye, fall is my absolute favorite time for Yosemite elopements—specifically October! The weather is still decent, the crowds get quieter and quieter, and the trees boast colorful fall colors. November can be a good month to visit the park, but the chance for snow does become much higher. Generally, though, all areas remain open in October, with some snow closures as winter approaches.
Winter
Picturing a winter wonderland elopement? The valley can be a GREAT spot, if you’re willing to sacrifice. The park is close to empty during the winter, giving you a unique, intimate Yosemite experience. That being said, there are various closures due to the weather, making planning more difficult, and limited opportunities to really explore the area. The iconic cliffside locations like Glacier Point and Taft Point are completely shut down during this time.
Best Places To Elope In Yosemite
Because of its popularity as an elopement destination, Yosemite has pre-approved locations throughout the landscape, depending on the time of year. They’re available on a first-come, first-serve basis, with a time slot of two hours, so it’s best to check ahead of time. Keep in mind, this is for groups of over 11 people. If your group is smaller, you are free (hurray!) to roam and choose another location. See this list for more information on availability. My personal recommendations are below:
Max Capacity: 11
This iconic lookout point offers an insane view of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. It’s a little distance away from bigger crowds, although you’ll still find plenty of people around — those unafraid of heights, at least. At the peak, Taft Point is 3,500 feet high! Still, if you’re brave enough, elope here and I’m sure you’ll feel on top of the world.
Max capacity: 11
Sentinel Dome offers incredible views of the park and a similar view to Glacier Point without all the people. While you’ll still encounter other tourists, there will be far fewer crowds than other iconic spots like Taft Point or Glacier Point. It’s also home to a famous Jeffrey Pine tree that was captured by landscape photographer Ansel Adams in 1977. Although your wedding day photos will be a lot less public, they won’t be any less beautiful.
Max capacity: 11
If you need an accessible location without much hiking, El Capitan Meadow is a great option! The meadow is fairly large and not as popular as other spots in the park, making it one of the most private places to exchange vows. It’s a big draw for climbers who are inspired to climb the granite walls that stretch over twice as high as the Empire State Building. Climbers headlamps even illuminate the nighttime view, and this was the base for the Oscar-winning documentary Free Solo.
Max Capacity: 50
This is one of the most iconic (and popular) locations in Yosemite, with stunning views as the payoff for a relatively straightforward hike. The area offers seating for guests — something many other areas of Yosemite do not offer. Various trails around the area help create some space from crowds for photos afterwards, but keep in mind that there will likely be many other people around. That might be easily forgotten with a quick glance at the mountain peaks and waterfalls.
Max capacity: 10
Another view captured elegantly by Ansel Adams, this is Yosemite National Park’s most iconic location, filled with photographers, tourists, hikers, and fellow romantics. Eloping here is pure magic with views of El Capital, Half Dome, and Bridal Veil Falls. Because this location is so beautiful, it is EXTREMELY popular. Parking is very limited and hard to come by unless you are aiming for sunrise.
Max capacity: 50
Okay, let’s take a deep breath and come back down to Earth following all those heights! Cathedral Beach offers a peaceful and serene view of El Capitan, from the ground level. The area is fairly spacious too, and designed for socializing and gathering together, so it’s easy to get some distance from other visitors, and ideal for hosting guests.
Merced Grove
Max capacity: 30
Many people don’t know that Yosemite hosts some stunning Giant Sequoia forests! Because it is lesser known, it is also a less visited part of the park, making it more intimate compared to Tuolumne Grove. One location to visit, one to host the ceremony, perhaps? Merced Grove is home to around 20 Giant Sequoias, the biggest trees on Earth, and amongst the biggest organisms, at over 3,000 years old. The trail stretches around a gentle 1.5 miles.
Max capacity: 50
Another in-demand location, Yosemite Falls, one of the world’s tallest waterfalls, makes for a remarkable backdrop to your special day. Do keep in mind the flow isn’t year-round, running from November to July, and peaking in May. There are multiple waterfalls in Yosemite, although this draws the biggest crowds, something to keep in mind when planning your ceremony. There’s also a special designated spot for elopements.
How To Get A Yosemite Elopement Permit
A “special use permit” is required for all wedding ceremonies held within Yosemite National Park. Failure to get the permit will result in a ranger stopping the ceremony and even banning you from the park (yes this really happens), so it is extremely important to get the permit for your elopement in Yosemite.
Getting a special use permit is simple. All you need to do is fill out the application found on the park’s website and mail it with a $150 nonrefundable check or money order to the permit office. You can find the address on the park’s website here. If your event requires monitoring (usually weddings with 30-50 guests) an additional $50 an hour fee will be added.
Your permit is required to be submitted between 1 year and 21 days before your elopement date. Though, I recommend applying ASAP as approved ceremony locations are available on a first come, first serve basis.
Once your permit is approved, you will receive a copy that you will then need to sign and mail back. Once this is complete, the park will send you an official permit you will need to take with you into the park.
If you need more information, check out the official park’s website permit page.
Pro Tip: All of my photography packages include permit assistance! If any of this information is confusing, reach out!
2024 Timed Entry Reservations
If you are planning on eloping or visiting Yosemite National Park during 2024, you will likely need a timed entry reservation to enter or drive through. See the below dates for when you will need to obtain a timed entry reservation:
April 13th - June 30th: a reservation is required from on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (May 27th and June 19th)
July 1st - August 16th: a reservation is required every day
August 17th - October 27th: a reservation is required from on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (September 2nd and October 14th)
These reservations will be required by vehicles entering the park between 5:00am - 4:00pm. If you will be entering the park before 5:00am or after 4:00pm, you will NOT need a reservation.
Also note that you will NOT need a timed entry reservation if you have acquired a Special Use Permit.
Reservations will allow you entrance to the park any time between 5:00am - 4:00pm and cost $2 per vehicle. You can book your timed entry reservation on recreation.gov. Most reservations were released for booking on January 5, 2024. However, if a date is sold out of reservations already, more will become available 7 days prior (if entering the park on October 27th, more will become available on October 20th).
For full information on the timed entry system, visit the National Park website here.
How To Get A California Marriage License
Understanding California's marriage laws is crucial when planning your elopement. Here are some key points to consider:
Marriage License
You must obtain a marriage license from a California county clerk's office. The license is valid immediately upon issuance and for 90 days.
Waiting Period
There is no waiting period once you obtain your marriage license, allowing you to elope on the same day if you choose. However, I always recommend arriving to your elopement location at least one full day in advance to get settled in & would advise to pick up the marriage license beforehand for less stress and timeline purposes for your elopement day.
Officiant
Your ceremony must be conducted by a recognized officiant, such as a minister, priest, rabbi, or judge. Friends or family members can also become Deputy Commissioners of Civil Marriages for a Day through the county clerk's office. I am a recognized officiant in the state of California & offer to sign for my couples in addition to photographing their day if they so choose.
Witnesses
California requires at least one witness, in addition to the officiant, to sign the marriage license.
Just So You Know: I am an ordained officiant and can legally sign on your marriage certificate in most U.S. states. Certain states may require additional paperwork and/or processing fees but I’m happy to help! However, if you would like an actual celebrant to verbally walk you through a ceremony, I know some great people who can do that for you.
Where To Stay For Your Yosemite Elopement
One of the benefits of such a popular destination is that you’re spoilt for choice with places to stay. From hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, or campsites, there’s plenty to choose from. Whether looking for luxury or something more down-to-earth, Yosemite Park is rich with options. Yosemite Mariposa County lodging is a luxury choice and a traditional option, with housekeeping, restaurants and spas at Tenaya at Yosemite. The Ahwahnee and The Wawona, initially built in the 1870s, are two 4-star hotels situated in the park.
If you’re camping or using AirBnB, make sure to book with plenty of time in advance, as spaces sell out quickly, especially during popular seasons.
Yosemite Elopement Packages
I’m much more than a photographer, I’m someone who is super passionate about supporting couples on their big day, from scouting hidden gems for the ideal location, stress-free planning, and of course capturing raw, authentic moments. As a West Coast photographer specializing in adventure elopements, you’ll be in safe hands. So, are you ready to say yes to Yosemite?! More information on my packages below:
Packages
8 hours, 12 hours, or 2 Day elopement photography
A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
Personalized elopement location recommendation list
Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
Custom-built-for-you elopement timeline
Assistance to help you with permits and licenses
90+ page elopement planning guide with my best tips & tricks
Optional complimentary officiant services
Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
5-7 day sneak peeks
Travel fees to anywhere in California are already included
Starting at $5000
Video Add-Ons
For an extra special, immersive reminder of your special day, I now offer the following options for video add ons to your elopement packages:
Documentary style highlight reel
Super 8 film
Ceremony recording
BTS iPhone video content
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
Check Out My Free Elopement Planning Guide & Checklist!
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