Picture saying your vows beneath towering granite cliffs, with Half Dome standing iconically in the distance and waterfalls thundering in the valley below. Yosemite National Park has long called to couples seeking an epic beginning to their marriage, and for good reason. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate sunrise ceremony at Glacier Point or saying your vows to each other on a 3,000ft cliff with El capitan as your witness, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect Yosemite elopement!
You can also check out my California elopement photographer page for more info & planning tips for California elopements!
Table of Contents:
Permit Instructions to Elope in Yosemite
What to Pack for your Yosemite Elopement
Timeline Tips for your Yosemite Elopement
How to Elope in Yosemite Legally
Where to elope in Yosemite
There are so many amazing locations in Yosemite for your ceremony! If you’re eloping just the 2 of you, the park is pretty much yours to choose from! You can elope almost anywhere year round in the park if you don’t have guests. If you do have guests, you are restricted to certain locations at certain times of the year. Some locations in the park will accommodate up to 10 guests, while other spots will accommodate up to 50-100. There are 11 main ceremony sites in the park for weddings with guests. Below are a few of my favorite places in the park, both with and without guests.
Where to Elope in Yosemite Above the Valley
Glacier Point
Dreaming of saying your vows to each other thousands of feet above the valley with the best view of Half Dome? Look no further than glacier point! Eloping here at sunrise is one of the most magical ways to tie the knot. It’s accessible by driving, which does make it a popular location and can be crowded. But don’t worry, if you’re eloping just the 2 of you I know the secret spots away from all the people! You’ll feel like half dome is there as your witness, just for the two of you. And if you are having a wedding with up to 50 guests, there is a ceremony location here you can reserve as well. If you’re eloping with guests the last date of the year is September 30th, however if you’re eloping just the 2 of you, you can elope here until the road closes usually in late October.
- Elevation: 7,214 feet
- Accessibility: Drive-up access (seasonal)
- Best Time: Sunrise
- Guests: Up to 50 for main ceremony space, or just the 2 of you for secluded spots.
Taft Point
Taft point is my absolute favorite place in the park to watch the sunset. A short 1.1 miles hike lands you at one of the most incredibly epic views of the valley, overlooking El Capitan. The dramatic fissures and the overhanging railing-free ledge create jaw-dropping photo opportunities. The surrounding area features beautiful rock formations and Jeffrey Pine trees, perfect for intimate ceremonies away from the edge. Sunset here is particularly magical as the last light paints El Capitan in brilliant orange and pink hues. If you’re in the park when the road is open, Taft Point is a must-see!
- Elevation: 7,503 feet
- Hiking Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
- Seasonal: Only open when Glacier Point Rd is open (not during snow months)
- Best Time: Late afternoon to sunset & blue hour. Also great for star gazing!
- Guests: Up to 10 people
Tunnel View
This iconic vista perfectly frames Yosemite Valley, capturing El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall in one sweeping view. The large viewing area features both paved and elevated spots for ceremonies. Morning fog often creates ethereal conditions as it lifts from the valley, while late afternoon light bathes the granite walls in golden light. This location is perfect for couples who need easy access or have elderly guests attending. This spot does however get very crowded, so early in the morning is best to avoid larger crowds!
- Elevation: 4,443 feet
- Accessibility: Drive-up access (year-round)
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
- Guests: Up to 10 people
Where to Elope in Yosemite In the Valley
Cathedral Beach
This intimate beach setting provides dramatic up-close views of El Capitan. The location features a mix of sandy beach and river rocks, with the Merced River creating perfect reflection opportunities on calm mornings. The surrounding forest provides shade and privacy, while gaps in the trees frame El Capitan perfectly. This spot is ideal for couples who want to combine dramatic views with water elements in their photos. This spot is open to picnics, campers and beach goers even when there is a ceremony happening, so I recommend early morning here to avoid crowds!
- Elevation: 4,000 feet
- Accessibility: Easy 5-minute walk from parking
- Best Time: Morning for best light
- Guests: Up to 50
El Capitan Meadow
In El Cap Meadow, you get a different perspective of this amazing rock from below. Stand in the beautiful meadow as it towers thousands of feet above you, and say your vows surrounded by beautiful trees and granite cliffs. In spring, the meadow explodes with wildflowers, creating a carpet of yellow and purple blooms. Morning fog often lingers here, creating ethereal conditions for photos. The open space provides plenty of ceremony location options while still feeling intimate. This ceremony site is extremely underrated!
- Elevation: 4,000 feet
- Accessibility: Flat, easy walking paths
- Best Time: Spring for wildflowers, fall for fall colors; sunrise or sunset
- Guests: Up to 10
Lower Yosemite Falls
In Spring and early summer this waterfall is beautiful when the flows are at their highest. In winter, the lower falls area transforms into a dramatic setting with ice formations and snow-covered rocks. The paved trail makes this location accessible even in winter conditions. The base of the falls offers several ceremony locations with varying views and proximity to the waterfall. Morning ceremonies benefit from softer light and fewer people around.
- Accessibility: Paved 1-mile loop trail
- Best Time: Morning for less spray and fewer crowds
- Guests: Up to 50
When to Elope in Yosemite
You can elope in Yosemite any time of the year. During the spring and summer you will have better weather but also more crowds, while the opposite is true of the winter. Each season in Yosemite offers something unique!
Spring
In Spring the waterfalls will be at their peak flow! The wildflowers in the meadows will also be blooming. This is a beautiful time to be in the park. It also can be a busy time in the park, so I always recommend eloping on a weekday and having a sunrise ceremony for the most privacy.
Summer
Summer can get pretty hot, but it will have the most consistent weather and the least amount of rain. Summer is typically the busiest time of year in the park, so if you want to experience Yosemite with fewer crowds, opt for the shoulder months instead of mid summer.
Fall
Fall is probably my favorite time of year in Yosemite, since the temperatures are pretty comfortable and the leaves will change colors!
Winter
If you enjoy snow and want to avoid the crowds, then eloping in the winter in Yosemite might be for you! The roads to Taft & Glacier Point are closed, but you can have your ceremony in the valley. If you’re lucky you’ll get to see fresh snow in the meadows and maybe on Half Dome!
Peak Season (May-October)
- Pros: Ideal weather, all roads open
- Cons: Larger crowds, higher accommodation costs
Off-Season (November-April)
- Pros: Fewer visitors, snow-capped landscapes
- Cons: Some roads closed, unpredictable weather
Best Times of Day
- Sunrise: 5:30-7:30 AM depending on time of year (minimal crowds, soft light)
- Sunset: 2-3 hours before official sunset time
Where to Stay in Yosemite
Inside the Park
- The Ahwahnee Centrally located and open year round.
- Yosemite Valley Lodge Near Yosemite Falls, open year round.
- Curry Village Cabins & tent cabins (budget-friendly)
- Autocamp Yosemite Glamping, cabins & luxury air streams in Midpines.
- Campgrounds Tent camping, RV camping
Outside the Park
- Tenaya Lodge Luxury 4-star hotel with spa
- Rush Creek Lodge 4-star hotel with spa
- Airbnbs
Here are my 5 favorite (& Vibiest!) Airbnbs…
Romantic cabin with hot tub & views
Modern Cabin with Private Jacuzzi
Chalet with epic views & firepit
Keep in mind when booking your lodging outside of the park that a lot of locations are farther from the main Yosemite locations than it seems. Many spots advertise that they are “30 mins from Yosemite” but the entrance gate to Yosemite is still an hour from most of the iconic park locations. So be sure to map your lodging location to your sunrise spot before booking it!
Where to eat in Yosemite
When you’re planning a full day Yosemite elopement, don’t forget you need to eat! One of my favorite Yosemite elopement day activities is enjoying a picnic together in a cool location! This is a great way to spend the middle of your day. You can also bring some of your favorite trail snacks along with you for a hike and enjoy them with a beautiful view.
If you’re staying at an Airbnb outside of the park, you can also consider hiring a private chef to cook a romantic candle-lit dinner for you after your Yosemite elopement. I recommend doing this either the night before or after your elopement in Yosemite, since most Airbnbs are a bit of a drive from the park, and of course you don’t want to miss a jaw-dropping Yosemite sunset!
Inside the park
If you’re looking for restaurants in the park, here are my recommendations:
- Degnan’s Kitchen is my favorite spot for lunch in Yosemite! They have delicious sandwiches, a Pete’s coffee inside, and a very cozy fireplace in one of the dining areas. A bonus for this lunch spot is you have to walk there, so it’s not usually as crowded as the other places to eat lunch in the park.
- The Loft at Degnan’s is just upstairs from Degnan’s Kitchen, and it’s a bit nicer. They have BBQ, ribs, tacos, and beer & wine selections. Also another fireplace! The loft also has TVs to watch sports. The Loft has different hours than the kitchen, so make sure to check their hours before you go.
- The Ahwahnee Dining Room is a great dinner spot in the park for a romantic fine dining experience for your Yosemite elopement.
- In Curry Village you will find multiple options for food including the Pizza Deck, Bar 1899, the taqueria, the Seven Tents Pavillion, and Coffee Corner. The Pizza Deck is fun but it does get busy!
Outside the park
If you’re dining outside of the park, I highly recommend checking out this list of places to eat near Yosemite. There is something for everyone! And this list compiles all of the vibiest places to eat into one site so you can easily look through and find something you’ll love.
For fine dining outside of the park, check out Embers at Tenaya. They have 2 seatings every Friday and Saturday night, so it’s a great option if you’re staying in the area a few days after your Yosemite elopement!
Activity Ideas for your Yosemite Elopement
There is plenty to do in Yosemite for your elopement! Here are a few ideas of activities:
- Hiking
- Picnic
- Champagne pop
- Horse back riding
- Snowshoeing or Cross-country skiing in Winter
- Camping
- Glamping
- Make coffee together
- Cut cake & toast with champagne
Permit Instructions to Elope in Yosemite
To Elope in Yosemite, you need a special use permit for your ceremony. I help my couples acquire the necessary permits for their elopement, so this doesn’t need to seem so daunting!
The special use permits are $150, and take about 4-6 weeks to process. It’s always best to apply as early as you can! I recommend applying 6 months in advance if you’re planning on eloping during peak season (May – October) as there will be higher demand for the popular locations. In some locations there are designated ceremony spots that you can reserve and elope with up to 30 guests, and some locations have more limitations such as Glacier Point where it’s capped at 11 guests. If you’re eloping just the 2 of you, you have many more options for ceremony location and can choose spots off the beaten paths. For example I have lots of secret spots at Glacier Point for sunrise elopements with as much privacy as possible!
What you Need to Apply
- Completed Special Use Permit application
- Payment of permit fee
- Proof of liability insurance (if applicable)
- Detailed ceremony plans
- Preferred and alternate locations
- Expected number of guests
Location-Specific Requirements
Taft Point & Glacier Point
- Maximum group size: 11 people
- No chairs or decorations allowed
- Must stay on designated trails
- Special considerations during snow season
Valley Locations (Cathedral Beach, Sentinel Beach, Cook’s Meadow)
- Setup restrictions for protecting meadow areas
- No amplified music
- Limited or no seating allowed
- Specific cleanup requirements
Yosemite Valley Chapel
- Separate reservation required through The Yosemite Community Church secretary.
- Additional fees apply
- Indoor capacity restrictions
- Contact chapel directly for availability
- The Yosemite Valley Protestant minister and the church secretary can be reached at: (209) 372-4831
- You may arrange to have someone from outside the park perform the ceremony.
Seasonal Permit Considerations
Peak Season (May-October)
- Apply 6+ months in advance
- Higher competition for popular locations
- Stricter group size enforcement
- Alternative dates may be required
Off-Season (November-April)
- More flexibility with dates
- Weather contingency plans required
- Some locations may be inaccessible
Additional Permits and Passes
Park Entrance Fee
- Private Vehicle: $35 (Or national parks pass)
- Annual Pass: $70
- America the Beautiful Pass: $80 (valid 1 year)
Park Restrictions:
Not Allowed:
- Rice, birdseed, or confetti
- Drones
- Amplified music
- Ground stakes
- Glass containers
- Releasing of any items
- Moving or damaging natural features
Allowed with Restrictions:
- Battery-operated candles
- Handheld bouquets
- Small decorative elements
- Acoustic music
- Small arch (some locations)
How to Apply for an elopement permit in Yosemite
- Initial Planning
- Choose preferred date and location
- Determine guest count
- Review location restrictions
- Submit Application
- Complete all required forms
- Include payment
- Provide detailed ceremony plans
- List alternate locations/dates
- After Approval
- Review permit conditions
- Share restrictions with vendors
- Create backup plans
- Keep permit copy accessible
Tips for Success
- Apply well in advance
- Be flexible with dates and locations
- Have backup locations ready
- Keep guest count small
- Work with experienced vendors
- Follow all park guidelines
- Consider weather contingencies
- Keep documentation accessible
Emergency Contacts in Yosemite
- Park Permit Office: (209) 379-1434
- Park Emergency: 911
- Non-Emergency: (209) 372-0200
- Road Conditions: (209) 372-0200 (then 1, 1) for updates
Ideal Planning Timeline to Elope in Yosemite
6-12 Months Before
- Choose date and location
- Apply for Special Use Permit
- Book accommodation
- Hire Yosemite elopement photographer and officiant
3-6 Months Before
- Plan ceremony details
- Arrange transportation
- Consider hiring hair/makeup artist
- Plan outfits suitable for location
1-3 Months Before
- Obtain marriage license
- Finalize timeline
- Create backup weather plans
- Confirm all vendors
What to Pack for your Yosemite Elopement
I will give you a detailed, personalized packing list before your elopement day! But for now here are a few key things to remember to bring with you for your elopement in Yosemite:
Ceremony Essentials
- Marriage license
- Rings
- Vows (You can get customized vow books on Etsy, like these with Half Dome on the front!)
- Permit documentation
Comfort Items
- Comfortable hiking shoes (These boots are comfy AND cute for your photos!!)
- Water bottles
- Snacks
- First aid kit
- Layers of clothing
Yosemite Elopement Day-of Timeline Tips
- Plan for 8-12 hours of photo coverage split between sunrise and sunset or 2 days to include both sunrise & sunset in different locations, multiple locations across the park, and activities!
- Plan your activities such as picnics and hikes.
- Consider multiple locations across the park throughout your day to get the full Yosemite experience on your elopement day.
Practice Leave No Trace Principles when you Elope in Yosemite
As a lover of the outdoors and our beautiful planet, I practice Leave No Trace principles everywhere I go whether working or not. This is an important value of mine, and hopefully for you too! If you’re not willing to practice Leave No Trace principles during your elopement, then I may not be the photographer for you. Here are some ways we can practice Leave No Trace principles in Yosemite:
- Stay on designated trails
- Pack out all items
- No confetti or rice throwing
- Use silk flowers for bouquets
- Respect wildlife and vegetation
How to Elope in Yosemite Legally
You need a marriage license to legally tie the knot in California. A marriage license can be obtained at any county clerk’s office in the state. Here are the closest offices to Yosemite:
Mariposa County Clerk
Tuolumne County Clerk
Mono County Clerk
Madera County Clerk
Your marriage license will be issued same-day in person, and is valid for 90 days. There is no waiting period in California.
You need to have an officiant for your ceremony to be legal in California, as well as 1-2 witnesses. As your Yosemite elopement photographer, I am happy to be your witness if you’d like!
Let’s do This!
Eloping in Yosemite National Park offers an unforgettable start to the rest of your lives together. With proper planning, your ceremony will be both beautiful and meaningful. Remember that flexibility is key – weather and conditions can change rapidly in the park. Embrace the adventure, and let Yosemite provide the perfect backdrop for your special day.
Need help planning your epic Yosemite elopement? Check out my California elopement photographer page for more information and let’s start planning!
LEAVE A COMMENT
Comments