How to Elope
in
Yosemite
2024/2025
Are you dreaming of an unforgettable, intimate elopement in one of the world's most awe-inspiring locations?
Thinking about saying "I do" in Yosemite National Park?
Eloping in Yosemite isn't just easy - it's an incredibly magical experience. From the towering granite cliffs to the lush meadows, and the cascading waterfalls, Yosemite is the perfect backdrop for your vows,
Planning your Yosemite Elopement may feel daunting, but don't worry - this guide will simplify everything you need to know.
How to elope in Yosemite national park
01
choose a date and guest count
03
apply for your special use wedding permit
02
pick a ceremony location
07
happily ever after
04
choose your vendors & accommodations
06
say "I do"
05
get a california marriage license (90 days prior)
In this Guide we will cover:
- when to elope in yosemite
- WHERE TO ELOPE IN YOSEMITE
- permits and legalities
- ACCOMMODATIONS & TRAVEL
- CHOOSING THE RIGHT VENDORS
- cost and elopement packages
When to Elope in Yosemite
Yosemite experiences all four seasons, each offering a unique and beautiful time to elope in the national park. Whether it's the lush meadows of spring, the vibrant colors of fall leaves, or the snow-covered winter landscape, every season provides a distinct and stunning setting. Yosemite's ever-changing scenery offers something special year-round.
- lush meadows
- full waterfalls
- crowds are low
- higher elevation roads won't open until late may - limited locations
- weather concerns, there may still be snow on the ground.
pros:
cons:
Spring
- waterfalls are at peak
- perfect weather at sunrise
- wildflowers
- no road closures = more photo locations
- crowds (especially in late june-august)
- hot - sometimes over 100 degrees
- no glacier point ceremony permits in july or august
pros:
cons:
Summer
- best time of the year: less crowds, great weather
- access to most locations in the park through early november
- stunning fall colors in november
- ceremony locations are getting limited by october due to weather concerns
- waterfalls are pretty dry
- possibility of early snow
pros:
cons:
Fall
- winter wonderland wedding
- crowds? Never heard of them
- snow - you'll be required to have and use chains in the snow.
- cold, harsh conditions
- very limited location access
pros:
cons:
Winter
No matter if you choose Sunrise, Sunset or anytime in between you can't go wrong for your own Yosemite Elopement.
What time of the day should we elope?
- AMAZING WAY TO START YOUR full-day ELOPEMENT
- best light for most locations in yosemite
- more intimate - less crowds
- very early morning wake up
- will likely be cold, especially at higher elevations
pros:
cons:
- stunning sunsets
- no early wake up call
- best time of day for weather
- crowds
- shorter elopement experience
- best lighting for taft point only
pros:
cons:
start your day at sunrise for the best lighting and a more intimate experience
Full-day Elopement Experience
Imagine starting your Elopement with a first look and private vows as the sun rises over Half-Dome. Then, on to the Valley floor for your first dance and cake cutting or maybe you want to grab a slice of pizza at Curry Village, the day is all about what feels right for you.
Let's end the evening with a hike to Taft Point to watch the sunset, capping off your unforgettable day with unforgettable views.
Your elopement is more than just a few photo opportunities; it's a celebration of your love story. Let's create a day full of unforgettable experiences, celebrating every moment.
Why choose between sunrise or sunset? Glacier Point or the Valley Floor?
Your elopement deserves a full-day experience, capturing the diverse beauty of Yosemite without feeling limited to just one location.
Your elopement deserves a full-day experience
Why choose between sunrise or sunset?
Glacier Point or the Valley Floor?
explore the diverse beauty of Yosemite without feeling limited to just one location
Imagine starting your Elopement with a first look and private vows as the sun rises over Half-Dome. Then, on to the Valley floor for your first dance and cake cutting or maybe you want to grab a slice of pizza at Curry Village, the day is all about what feels right for you.
Let's end the evening with a hike to Taft Point to watch the sunset, capping off your unforgettable day with unforgettable views.
Where to Elope in Yosemite
When choosing a Ceremony location in Yosemite guest count, date, and accessibility are generally the top factors when making your consideration.
- up to 50 guests with granite seating
- best ada access ceremony location
- iconic yosemite views
- stunning sunrise
- several photo opportunities
- large parking lot
- no hiking
- limited on when you can get a permit
- popular = crowded
pros:
cons:
Glacier Point Amphitheater
guest limit: 50 (more than 35 requires monitoring)
availability: After road opening (late may) - september 30th
no permits issued in July or August
- up to 50 guests
- beautiful morning ceremony location
- views on el capitan
- less busy location at sunrise
- no hiking
- small parking lot (6 cars, must carpool)
- No as dramatic of a ceremony location
- water level of the merced river can be unpredictable prior to the day
pros:
cons:
Cathedral Beach
guest limit: 50 (more than 35 requires monitoring)
availability: After memorial day - october 31st
- up to 50 guests
- accessible location
- getting married under a waterfall
- no hiking
- very busy location
- noisey
- can be misty if waterfall is at the peak flow (late spring/early summer(
- not allowed to have ceremony at the base of the falls
pros:
cons:
Lower Yosemite Falls
guest limit: 50 (more than 35 requires monitoring)
availability: open year-round
- best sunset ceremony location
- unforgettable experience
- lots of photography opportunities
- requires a 1.1 mile hike each way
- not the most guest friendly location
- popular sunset location = crowds
pros:
cons:
Taft Point
guest limit: 10 (including you, officiant, and photographer)
availability: After road opening (late may) - september 30th
Additional Ceremony Locartions
- swinging bridge picnic area
- merced grove
- Tenaya Lake Beach
- cascades picnic area
- sentinel beach picnic area
- chilnualna falls trailhead parking lot
- tuolumne meadows lodge area
While your Ceremony location is important
you aren't limited to that single location for your Portraits
What you need to elope in Yosemite
Special use Permit
marriage license
officiant & witness
The Park Service requires a Special Use Permit for Weddings and Commitment Ceremonies held within Yosemite National Park. You can download the application from the NPS website.
Ceremonies must be scheduled at least 21 days in advance, up to a year prior.
The application fee for the special use permit is $150
For your legal Ceremony in California you'll need an Officiant, and at least 1 witness to sign your marriage license.
The Officiant performs the Ceremony and signs the Marriage license. Your signed marriage license must be submitted to the County Clerk Recorder's Office within 10 days.
If you choose to not have any guests at your Elopement, I'm always honored to serve as a witness and sign your marriage license.
To ensure your ceremony is legally recognized, you'll need a California Marriage License. The nearest County Clerk Recorder's Office to Yosemite is in Mariposa.
In order to obtain a marriage license both parties must appear in person and present valid identification.
As of 2024, the cost of a marriage license in Mariposa is $65.
rules and guidelines for yosemite elopements
- no wedding permits will be issued on federal holidays or holiday weekends.
no permits issued on holidays
- amplified music is not permitted
- Acoustic instruments may be allowed if they do not exceed 60 decibels at a distance of 50 feet
music and amplification
- flowers and bouquets are allowed, nps recommends native flowers and hardy flowers that don't seed or germinate.
- BABY'S BREATH IS PROHIBITED IN YOSEMITE
Flowers
- No pets allowed during ceremonies held within the park.
- leashed dogs are allowed on certain paths and paved roads - you can include your dog in portraits at allowed locations but they will have to be a good boy (or girl) and sit out the ceremony
pets
- formal receptions are not allowed in picnic areas
receptions
- the use of balloons, arches, or any other type of decorations are not authorized.
- no Seating or chairs allowed, considerations are made for guests with special needs.
no decor or seating
Important information for your yosemite elopement
Park Entrance Reservations
CHECK THE NPS WEBSITE FOR THE MOST UP TO DATE INFORMATION ON RESERVATION REQUIREMENTS.
- a special use permit is valid reservation for park entrance on the date of the permit
Crowds
in order to make the best of your elopement and avoid the crowds consider these tips:
- sunrise is the best time to have a more intimate experience
- avoid the summer months to miss the majority of the crowds
- consider choosing a week day to elope
Cell Service
- ahwahnee hotel
- yosemite valley lodge
- curry village
- wawona hotel
inside the park
Accommodations & travel for your Yosemite elopement
- yosemite west
- redwoods in yosemite
Check out scenic wonder to book cabin rentals inside of yosemite national park
- tenaya lodge
- evergreen lodge
- rush creek lodge
outside the park
- autocamp yosemite
I always recommend couples stay in the park for their Elopement. Locations outside of the park are at least a 1 hour drive to any destination within Yosemite.
travel to yosemite
- fresno international airport (FAT)
- San Francisco International (SFO)
How to choose the right vendors for your elopement
Yosemite Elopement Vendors
- photographer
- videographer
- officiant
- florist
- bakery
- hair and make-up artist
- catering/charcutierie
What sets me apart is not just my artistry but my dedication to creating a personalized and effortless experience. I focus on the intimate and raw moments that define your day, crafting a collection of images that reflect your love story. My goal is to provide you with a seamless experience, from planning the perfect photo locations to navigating the park's logistics, ensuring your day is as stress-free and magical as possible.
My goal is to help you relax and fully immerse yourself in your day, knowing that your memories are being expertly preserved.
How much does it cost to Elope in Yosemite
Every Elopement is unique, with costs varying based on factors like vendor choices, time of year, and services. Different vendors offer a range of prices reflecting their expertise and customization options.
The prices listed here are general guidelines and may vary. For accurate pricing, we recommend consulting directly with your chosen vendors.
- $150 - Special use wedding permit
- $65 - marriage license (price varies by county)
- $35 - park entrance fee per vehicle
- $500-$700 - officiant
- $2000-$10k+ - photographer
- $700-$900 - bridal hair and make-up
- $300-$500 - bouquet & boutonniere
- $200-$300 - small cake
- hotel or cabin rental
- attire
- rings
- travel/plane tickets
- food costs
costs to consider
ALL YOU NEED TO GET MARRIED IN YOSEMITE
You can have a beautiful Yosemite National Park wedding for as little as $250, with the cost increasing based on your choice of vendors and the details of your celebration.
estimated vendor costs
Yosemite elopement packages & pricing
- 3 hour to 2-day coverage options
- Sneak Peek in 48 hours
- Location planning and scouting
- Custom timeline assistance
- Virtual planning calls
- Vendor recommendations (lgbt+ inclusive vendors)
- No travel fees
- Expert knowledge and guidance
- A calm, stress-free wedding photography experience
elopement photography Packages
what's included:
3-hour elopements starting at
$2000
half-day coverage starting at
$3800
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