How to Elope in Yosemite National Park

The Ultimate Guide for Lovers Planning to Elope in Yosemite National Park

An increasing number of couples are opting for a more intimate and adventurous alternative to getting married: eloping. Eloping allows you and your partner to exchange vows in a personalized and meaningful way, free from the stress and expectations of a traditional wedding. If you’re considering eloping, look no further than the majestic and iconic Yosemite National Park, where breathtaking landscapes, towering sequoias, and stunning waterfalls await. Yosemite is the perfect destination for your intimate elopement; full of natural beauty and serene environments that make for the best spots to take wedding photos. Eloping should be a fun, exciting, and stress-free experience; to help make planning your dream Yosemite elopement easy, I have created the ultimate guide to eloping in Yosemite.

Choosing the Right Time of Year & Location to Elope in Yosemite

When planning your dream Yosemite elopement, one of the first questions you should ask yourselves is “When do we want to elope?” Yosemite offers incredible scenery all year round, but each season has its unique characteristics. Below, I have listed the key differences and what to expect in each season to help you decide the best time for your elopement.

Yosemite Seasonal Elopement Information

Spring (March-May)
Springtime in Yosemite is magical with blooming wildflowers, gushing waterfalls, and milder temperatures. It’s a fantastic time to visit as the snow melts and the park awakens from its winter slumber. However, be prepared for some residual snow in higher elevations and unpredictable weather patterns.

Summer (June-August)
Summer is peak season in Yosemite, and for a good reason. The weather is warm, and all the park areas are accessible. The long days provide ample daylight for your elopement and photography sessions. However, this is also the busiest time in the park, so expect larger crowds. Early morning or late evening elopements can help avoid the crowds and capture the beautiful light.

Fall (September – November)
Fall in Yosemite is absolutely stunning with vibrant fall foliage and cooler temperatures. This season is less crowded than summer, providing a more peaceful elopement experience. The waterfalls may be less impressive due to the dry season, but the crisp air and colorful leaves make up for it.

Winter (December – February)
Winter transforms Yosemite into a snowy wonderland, perfect for a cozy, intimate elopement. Many of the high elevation roads and trails are closed, but iconic locations like Yosemite Valley and Bridalveil Fall remain accessible. Be prepared for cold weather and possible snowstorms, but the serene beauty of winter in Yosemite is worth it.

Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Yosemite:

Places to Elope in Yosemite National Park (MAPPED BELOW)

Okay, so you picked out the perfect time of year to elope, now the next big question is where. The first thing you should ask yourself is what kind of vibe you want your elopement to have. The location you choose is more than just a pretty background, it’s the entire atmosphere of your elopement. Granite cliffs, towering trees, waterfalls, etc., in the background will determine the overall look of the images. Below, I have listed some of my favorite elopement locations in Yosemite and when the best time to visit them is:

Tunnel View

One of Yosemite’s most iconic viewpoints, Tunnel View offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. It’s stunning at any time of day, but sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting.

Glacier Point

Glacier Point provides one of the most spectacular views in Yosemite. Overlooking Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra, it’s an awe-inspiring spot for an elopement. It’s best in the late spring through early fall when the road to Glacier Point is open.

Taft Point

Taft Point offers incredible views and dramatic cliffs, perfect for an adventurous elopement. It’s less crowded than some other viewpoints, making it ideal for a private ceremony. The best time to visit is late spring through early fall when the trail is accessible.

Yosemite Falls

As one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, Yosemite Falls is an iconic and majestic spot for an elopement. Spring and early summer are the best times to visit when the falls are at their peak flow.

Cathedral Beach

For a riverside elopement with stunning views of El Capitan, Cathedral Beach is a beautiful and serene location. It’s accessible year-round but is particularly lovely in the late spring and summer.

Sentinel Dome

Sentinel Dome offers 360-degree views of Yosemite and is a fantastic location for an elopement at sunrise or sunset. The hike to the top is moderate, making it an adventurous yet accessible option.

Should We Include Guests in Our Elopement?

First, remember that your decision is yours (and your partner’s) to make, and whatever you decide should be a choice you make together and without any coercion or added stress from others. There are numerous factors that make the decision to elope solo or with others a tough one. Weddings can be expensive and if you’d prefer to spend your budget on something special for just yourselves, you are valid. Even planning a small gathering of 20 people requires permitting (for park ceremonies) or a venue + reception location, food, décor, travel costs, it all can start to add up.

If you and your partner are ready, I recommend an intimate ceremony for just the two of you. This way, the day is completely yours to do whatever, wherever you want. But, if you can’t imagine getting married without family or friends but don’t want a big wedding, consider a small ceremony of no more than 20 people. Book your reception later in the day to allow time for photos after the ceremony. Deciding how to elope is a huge decision, as it marks the start of your lives together.

If you have questions, comments, concerns, what ifs, what abouts, etc.; please do not hesitate to contact me and I am happy to walk you through all of it.

Choosing the Best Photography Package for Your Elopement

Eloping should not break the bank and it’s important for you to select the package that makes the most sense financially. If you’re eloping in a courthouse and want a simple, quick session then 1 hour is perfect, but if you are wanting to do multiple looks at multiple locations 3+ hours is definitely needed. If you plan to host a small ceremony with guests, I recommend 4+ hours to ensure there is plenty of time for ceremony, family, and couples photos. No matter what kind of elopement you choose, we will curate a package that is just right for you.

Choosing the Rest of Your Vendors to Elope in Yosemite

If you decide to elope with a small ceremony, book a venue, or even want to go to the courthouse, you may need to do some planning. It’s important to book vendors as early as possible to lock in your date. This goes for a photographer, officiant, courthouse appointment, venue, reception, florals, décor, permits, etc., whatever applies to your big day. If you need recommendations, I am always happy to help you find the perfect vendors for your big day.

Choosing Where to Get Married “Legally”

Getting married is not the most complicated process, but it is a process nonetheless. If you want to be legally married before the elopement session, schedule your appointment at the clerks office beforehand. If you plan to get married on the day of and want pictures after it is completely possible. You’ll want to schedule an appointment at the courthouse in whatever city/county you plan to elope in. In order to get legally married in California you need a valid photo ID and social security card. After you get your marriage license, you have 90 days to say “I Do.”

Packing and Preparing to Elope in Yosemite National Park

Before packing for your Yosemite elopement, think about the vibe you’re going for and the location you chose. Is it adventurous, rustic, elegant, casual, etc.? Once you know what kind of vibe you’re going for, you can narrow down on a dress/outfits. There is no rule that says you have to wear white to elope, wear whatever makes YOU feel the best. After you pack your dress I would next suggest: comfortable hiking shoes, warm layers (it can get chilly), sunscreen, and a hat. I would also suggest packing comfortable shoes to walk between locations, trust me your feet will thank you.

On your elopement day, it is so important to eat a well-balanced meal, and drink tons of water. Yosemite’s high elevation and dry climate mean it’s crucial to stay hydrated on your big day. Depending on the location, I will drop a pin exactly where parking is or send directions to you. Remember it’s totally okay to be nervous, not everyone has their picture taken every day! I strive for the process to be a seamless and fun experience from start to finish. My goal as your Yosemite elopement photographer is to deliver a lasting collection of images that feel authentic, real, and 100% you. We will laugh, have fun, and spend the day celebrating and capturing your love story.

Honeymooning in Yosemite

Yosemite has so much to offer and there are so many beautiful places to honeymoon at after eloping in the park. Below, I have listed some of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in and around Yosemite.

Romantic Yosemite Honeymoon Location Guide

Yosemite Valley Lodge
Nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley, this lodge offers stunning views and easy access to all the park’s main attractions. It’s perfect for couples who want to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing comfort.

Wawona Hotel
This historic hotel, located near the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, exudes old-world charm and elegance. It’s a serene and romantic spot to relax and unwind after your elopement.

Tenaya Lodge
Just outside the park’s south entrance, Tenaya Lodge offers a luxurious retreat with modern amenities, a spa, and a variety of outdoor activities. It’s a great base for exploring Yosemite and the surrounding area.

Glacier Point
For a more adventurous honeymoon, consider camping at Glacier Point. The stunning views and star-filled skies make for an unforgettable experience.

I hope this guide will help you through the elopement process in Yosemite. I am so lucky that I get to capture love stories in this beautiful park. If you want me to tag along and capture your Yosemite elopement, please fill out my booking form!