Are you looking for the perfect Yosemite wedding location? Yosemite National Park offers some of the most breathtaking settings in the world to say ‘I do.’ With towering granite cliffs, serene meadows, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoias, it’s the ideal backdrop for your wedding ceremony. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a ceremony with a few close guests, this guide covers all the approved locations designated by the National Park Service (NPS) to help you find the one that fits your vision perfectly. You can view the NPS official list of locations here 

 

Yosemite Valley Wedding Locations

 

Bridalveil Fall

• Total People Allowed: 50 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Year-round, but water flow is highest in spring
• Pros: Iconic waterfall backdrop

ADA accessible

Restroom facilities nearby – with flushing toilets!

• Cons: Crowded during peak seasons

Can get wet from the mist of the Fall

Small area/lacks intimacy

Located near the base of Bridalveil Fall, this forest clearing provides an iconic backdrop. Access is via a short, paved path. Monitoring is required for groups of 50 people.

Bridalveil Fall is undeniably one of Yosemite’s most iconic sights, with its cascading water and mist filling the air. If you’re dreaming of getting married under a waterfall, this is as close as you can get in the park. However, the ceremony area here is quite small, and its popularity means you’ll likely be sharing the space with other visitors, which can make the experience feel less private.

 

Lower Yosemite Fall Paved Trail

• Total People Allowed: 50 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Year-round except holiday weekends
• Pros: Dramatic waterfall setting

ADA accessible with a paved trail

Restroom facilities nearby

• Cons: Extremely high visitor traffic area

Falls are seasonal, typically drying up in late summer, particularly in August and September, depending on snowmelt and weather conditions.

The Lower Yosemite Fall Paved Trail is a convenient location with an accessible path and room for larger groups. However, this popularity means you’ll likely encounter crowds, making it difficult to create a personal or intimate atmosphere. Unfortunately, ceremonies must take place in a designated area away from the base of the falls, which may feel underwhelming for some couples. While the dramatic views of Yosemite Falls are stunning, this spot might not be the best choice for those seeking a quieter, more private experience.

 

Swinging Bridge Picnic Area

• Total People Allowed: 20 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Year-round except holiday weekends
• Pros: Riverside setting

Views of Yosemite Falls

ADA accessible

Restroom facilities nearby

• Cons: Limited parking

No ceremonies allowed on the bridge or meadows.

Swinging Bridge holds a special place in my heart, it’s where I said ‘I do.’ This spot offers incredible views in every direction, from Yosemite Falls to the Merced River, creating a truly scenic backdrop for your ceremony. While it’s a peaceful location in the off-season or early mornings, it can get quite busy during peak times, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re hoping for a quieter moment. It’s a beautiful location on the Valley Floor, offering the best of Yosemite’s iconic scenery.

 

Cathedral Beach Picnic Area

• Total People Allowed: 50 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Late spring through October 31st
• Pros: Riverside location

Iconic El Capitan views

• Cons: Limited parking (6 vehicles max)Seasonal restrictions

Monitoring is required for groups of 35–50 people

Cathedral Beach offers stunning views of El Capitan paired with a serene, beachside setting along the Merced River. This spot truly shines in the early morning hours, when the soft light bathes the area in a warm glow and the quiet creates an intimate atmosphere. Its limited availability and small parking area mean planning ahead is essential, but the breathtaking scenery and peaceful vibe make it well worth the effort for those seeking a classic Yosemite Valley wedding location.

 

Sentinel Beach Picnic Area

• Total People Allowed: 100 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Late spring through October 31st
• Pros: Spacious area

Scenic river views

ADA accessible

• Cons: Limited parking (8 vehicles max)Beaches tend to have high traffic during the Summer months

Sentinel Beach offers a spacious riverside setting with views of the Merced River and Yosemite Valley. While it may not have the dramatic appeal of other locations, it’s a practical choice for larger groups and ceremonies needing more space. The nearby amenities and easy accessibility can make it a convenient option, but it’s worth noting that it doesn’t have the same visual impact as some of Yosemite’s more iconic spots. Still, for the right couple, it could be the perfect fit.

Cascades Picnic Area

• Total People Allowed: 30 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Year-round
• Pros: Quiet location off the main path

Waterfront and serene

Restroom facilities nearby

• Cons: Limited parking (8 vehicles max)

No iconic landmark

Cascades Picnic Area is a hidden gem located just outside Yosemite Valley, offering a peaceful and serene setting for your ceremony. Its location strikes a perfect balance—close enough to the Valley for convenience, yet far enough away to feel quiet and intimate. The gentle sounds of the nearby water add to its charm, making it a wonderful choice for couples seeking a more private and tranquil spot in Yosemite.

 

Glacier Point and Wawona Wedding Locations

 

Glacier Point Amphitheater

• Total People Allowed: 50 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: late Spring (end of May) through September 30th
• Pros: Iconic Half Dome views

Only location with seating available

ADA accessible

Ample parking

• Cons: Limited seasonal access

High elevation may affect some guests

No permits issued for Ceremonies in July or August

Monitoring is required for groups of 35–50 people

Glacier Point is hands down my favorite spot in Yosemite for a wedding ceremony. The panoramic views of Half Dome and the Valley below are absolutely breathtaking, creating a setting that feels nothing short of magical. Glacier Point is especially stunning at sunrise, with golden light spilling over the cliffs, creating a peaceful and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The amphitheater seating provides the only ceremony location with seating for guests, and the stunning views make every moment extraordinary. I can’t lie, this is my favorite Yosemite Wedding Location.

Looking for my inspiration for your Glacier Point Amphitheater Ceremony? Check out Juliana & Maison’s Elopement on the blog 

 

Chilnualna Falls Trailhead Parking Lot

• Total People Allowed: 50 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Year-round
• Pros: Quiet location

Forested atmosphere

• Cons: Limited facilities

No direct view of falls

Parking is limited to 10 vehicles, and monitoring is required for larger groups

Chilnualna Falls offers a peaceful, forested atmosphere tucked away in Wawona, making it a great option for couples seeking a quieter ceremony location. While you won’t have direct views of the falls, the serene surroundings and intimate vibe more than make up for it. Its location outside of Yosemite Valley means fewer crowds, and the nearby trail adds an adventurous touch for couples wanting to explore after their ceremony. This spot is perfect for those who appreciate a more understated yet charming setting in Yosemite.

 

Tuolumne Meadows Wedding Locations

 

Tenaya Lake Beach

• Total People Allowed: 50 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: late Spring (end of May) through September 30th
• Pros: Alpine lake backdrop

Easy access

Unique High Sierra location away from the Valley

• Cons: Limited seasonal availability

Exposed to elements

Monitoring is required for groups of 50 people

Tenaya Lake Beach is a stunning high-country location that feels like something out of a dream. The crystal-clear alpine lake, framed by granite peaks, provides an unforgettable backdrop for your ceremony. This yosemite wedding locations is the perfect spot for couples who want a unique Yosemite location away from the Valley. Mornings at Tenaya Lake are especially serene, with calm waters and soft lighting that make for incredible photos. While its seasonal accessibility and exposure to the elements require some planning, the peaceful beauty of this location makes it well worth the effort.

Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Area

• Total People Allowed: 25 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: late Spring (end of May) through September 30th
• Pros: High alpine scenery

Granite cascades

• Cons: Remote location

Limited parking

Parking is limited; carpooling required

Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Area offers a serene high-country setting that feels worlds away from the busier Yosemite Valley. With granite cascades and open alpine meadows, it’s perfect for couples seeking a peaceful and unique location for their ceremony. The remote nature of this spot adds to its charm, providing an intimate and secluded atmosphere. While parking is limited and it requires some planning, the breathtaking scenery and tranquility of Tuolumne Meadows make it a beautiful choice for adventurous couples looking for something off the beaten path.

 

Big Oak Flat Area Wedding Locations

 

Tuolumne Grove

• Total People Allowed: 30 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Year-round
• Pros: Ancient sequoia grove

Peaceful atmosphere

• Cons: 2.5-mile hike round trip

Ceremonies must be on footpath (no standing on or near Sequoia roots)

Snow may be present from October to June

Tuolumne Grove offers an intimate and peaceful setting surrounded by towering ancient sequoias, creating a truly magical atmosphere for your ceremony. The 2.5-mile round-trip hike to the grove makes it ideal for couples who love adventure and want their day to feel like a journey into nature. With its tranquil vibe and awe-inspiring trees, this spot is perfect for small gatherings that embrace the quiet beauty of Yosemite. Just be mindful of the sequoia roots and plan for a walk that adds to the sense of connection with this incredible setting.

Merced Grove

• Total People Allowed: 30 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Year-round
• Pros: Intimate sequoia grove

Tranquil setting

• Cons: 3-mile hike round trip

Ceremonies must be on footpath (no standing on or near Sequoia roots)

• Merced Grove is one of Yosemite’s most intimate sequoia groves, offering a tranquil and secluded setting for your ceremony. The 3-mile round-trip hike ensures privacy and a sense of adventure for couples who want their wedding day to feel like a true escape into nature. Surrounded by towering sequoias, the grove provides a serene atmosphere perfect for small, heartfelt ceremonies. With its peaceful ambiance and off-the-beaten-path location, Merced Grove is ideal for couples seeking a deeply personal and quiet experience in Yosemite.

 

Yosemite Wedding Locations Options for intimate Ceremonies

 

For elopements with up to 10 people, you’re not restricted to the official Yosemite wedding locations listed above. The park offers nearly endless options for your ceremony, but the chosen location must still be approved on your permit. Ceremonies are prohibited in meadows (except El Capitan Meadow with special permission) and riparian areas. If you’re unsure about the suitability of your chosen location, reach out to NPS for guidance before submitting your special use permit.

As always, ensure you follow Leave No Trace principles when planning and celebrating your elopement, preserving Yosemite’s beauty for everyone to enjoy.

Taft Point

• Total People Allowed: 10 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Late spring through early fall
• Pros: Stunning cliffside views of Yosemite Valley

Quiet and intimate setting

Dramatic sunset lighting

• Cons: Requires a moderate hike (2.2 miles round trip)

Exposed to elements, including wind

Steep, sudden fissures and drop-offs in the cliffs

Taft Point is one of Yosemite’s most iconic and awe-inspiring locations for a ceremony. The panoramic views over Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan and the dramatic cliffs below, create a setting that feels larger than life. This spot is especially stunning at sunset, when the golden light enhances the sweeping vistas. While the 2.2-mile round-trip hike adds an adventurous element, Taft Point is a popular destination and can be busy, particularly during peak times. Despite this, it remains a favorite for couples who dream of saying their vows in one of the most breathtaking spots in Yosemite.

Looking for more inspiration for the right yosemite wedding location? Check out Brooke & Jonny’s Taft Point Session on the blog

El Capitan Meadow

(Special Permission Required)

• Total People Allowed: 10 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Year-round with special permission
• Pros: Iconic views of El Capitan

Only permitted Meadow location for ceremonies

• Cons: Requires special permission and may not be available

El Capitan Meadow offers one of the most iconic views in Yosemite, with the towering granite face of El Capitan serving as a breathtaking backdrop. This is the only meadow in the park where ceremonies are permitted, but it requires special permission, adding to its exclusivity. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting and the quietest moments. While the meadow’s expansive feel makes it ideal for photos, its popularity and the extra steps to secure approval require some planning. For couples drawn to Yosemite’s grandeur, El Capitan Meadow is a one-of-a-kind choice.

Artist Point

• Total People Allowed: 10 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Year-round
• Pros: Unique perspective of Yosemite Valley

Quiet and less crowded than Tunnelview

• Cons: Requires a short hike (2 miles round trip) usually before Sunrise

Artist Point is a hidden gem that offers stunning, lesser-known views of Yosemite Valley. With a perspective similar to the iconic Tunnel View but far less crowded, this location provides a sense of quiet and exclusivity. The 2-mile round-trip hike to reach Artist Point adds a touch of adventure, making it perfect for couples looking for something unique and off the beaten path. The dramatic vistas and serene atmosphere make it a beautiful choice for those wanting to celebrate their love surrounded by Yosemite’s timeless beauty.

Olmsted Point

• Total People Allowed: 10 people (includes couple, guests and vendors)
• Seasonal Availability: Late spring through early fall
• Pros: Granite landscapes with views of Half Dome

Unique and less crowded

• Cons: Limited parking

Olmsted Point offers a striking high-country location with unique granite landscapes and sweeping views of Half Dome from an angle few get to experience. Located along Tioga Road, this spot is perfect for couples who want a setting away from the Valley and closer to Yosemite’s rugged alpine beauty. The dramatic rock formations and expansive vistas provide a stunning backdrop for a ceremony. While Olmsted Point is less crowded than other locations, its limited parking and exposure to the elements make planning key.

 

Important Information to Consider Regarding Wedding Ceremonies

 

Site use is on a first-come, first-served basis and limited to two hours maximum at all locations. Once an application and payment are received, Yosemite’s Special Park Uses permit program manager will contact you by email within two to seven business days. If the location requested has already been booked or is unavailable, the permittee will be contacted immediately to discuss an alternative location or preferred date.

 

• Wedding permits are not granted for holiday weekends or holidays (Saturday, Sunday, and Monday).
• Visitor use may impact your ceremony: morning timeframes (before 10 am) are recommended at all locations.
• The use of amplified music and microphones, speakers (with the exception of 2- to 3-inch portable speakers), throwing of birdseed, rice, and flower petals, decorations, and the use of drones are prohibited.
• Ceremonies must avoid standing or walking on plants, grasses, and tree roots. Standing under sequoia trees within sequoia grove locations is also prohibited.
• The use of hardy flower bouquets and boutonnières is preferable to ensure seeds do not fall and germinate.
• Baby’s breath is prohibited, and native flower arrangements are preferred.

Choosing Your Perfect Yosemite Wedding Location

Selecting the ideal yosemite wedding location for your elopement is a key step in creating a magical and stress-free experience. You’ll need to choose a specific site that aligns with your vision and apply for a special use permit from the National Park Service. This ensures your ceremony complies with park regulations and minimizes environmental impact. Leave No Trace principles should guide every aspect of your ceremony, from setup to cleanup.

Every Yosemite wedding location offers unique charm and logistical considerations, such as accessibility, seasonal conditions, and guest comfort. Each spot provides an opportunity to craft a day that feels truly unique to your story.

Feeling overwhelmed by the choices? Not sure which location is right for your dream Yosemite elopement? That’s where I come in. With my expertise as a Yosemite wedding photographer, I can help you navigate the options, offer personalized advice, and guide you to the perfect spot that creates a truly unforgettable day.

Are you planning a Yosemite Elopement? Not sure where to begin?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Yosemite for expert tips and inspiration to help you start planning your unforgettable Yosemite wedding location.

Ready to start planning? Inquire now to schedule your consultation and discover your perfect Yosemite wedding location! Inquire HERE