How to elope in Yosemite isn’t just a question it’s the beginning of one of the most unforgettable adventures of your life. Picture exchanging vows with the golden light hitting Half Dome, hearing Yosemite Falls echo in the distance, or saying “I do” beneath a grove of ancient sequoias that have stood longer than time itself. This place doesn’t just make beautiful photos it makes core memories.
If you’re dreaming of a Yosemite elopement but don’t know where to start, you’re in the right place. This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know about how to elope in Yosemite from permits and locations to planning and photography.
After living in Yosemite and working inside the park for over a year, I’ve helped couples plan their days with firsthand expertise. Whether you’re envisioning an epic overlook or a peaceful forest ceremony, this guide will walk you through it all: no guesswork, no overwhelm.
- What You Need to Know Before You Elope in Yosemite
- How to Elope in Yosemite in Every Season:
- How to Elope in Yosemite: The Most Beautiful Ceremony Locations
- How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Yosemite
- FAQ's
What You Need to Know Before You Elope in Yosemite
Before we dive into the fun parts, here’s everything you need to know about how to elope in Yosemite legally and responsibly. Because Yosemite is protected land, permits and rules help preserve its beauty for generations to come.
Permits & Legal Requirements
Every Yosemite elopement requires a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service. It’s $150 and covers small ceremonies (even if it’s just the two of you). You can apply directly through the NPS Yosemite wedding permit page it’s quick, but dates fill fast, so apply early (ideally 60+ days out).
Pro tip: You’ll need to know your exact ceremony location before applying, so it helps to scout your spot first or reach out to your photographer for guidance. (Hint: I help my couples navigate all of this from choosing the location to handling the paperwork.)
Group Size & Ceremony Rules
Yosemite keeps ceremonies small to protect the park and keep the magic intimate. Most approved ceremony sites allow up to 11–50 people, depending on location, but honestly the best Yosemite elopements are the tiny ones. Fewer guests = more freedom, more photos, more time to just be. The permit is also just for the ceremony part of your wedding day. We can still hike, climb, backpack, etc
You’ll also need to follow Leave No Trace principles:
- No pets, amplified music, or drones.
- No “releasing” anything (butterflies, confetti, etc.)
- No balloons, decor, or seating (except for special needs).
- Avoid stepping on plant life and no weddings under Sequoias.
Getting Around Yosemite
The park is massive, and travel times can surprise people. Roads wind through valleys, cliffs, and forests so give yourself at least an hour between major spots like Glacier Point and Yosemite Valley.
Getting around Yosemite can be tricky check out my Driving in Yosemite Guide for insider tips on parking, road conditions, and how to use YARTS, the park’s shuttle system. It’ll save you a ton of stress on your elopement day.
Pro Tip: Pick Your Date Intentionally
Weekdays and sunrise ceremonies = fewer crowds, softer light, and way more privacy. Fridays through Sundays in peak season can be shoulder-to-shoulder, even at sunrise. The most peaceful Yosemite moments happen when the world is still half asleep — and those are the moments worth waking up for.
How to Elope in Yosemite in Every Season:
Each season changes how to elope in Yosemite—from roaring waterfalls in spring to snow-covered meadows in winter.
Spring
Spring is pure magic in Yosemite. The snow starts to melt, and suddenly the park comes alive: waterfalls roar, the air smells like pine and possibility, and everything feels brand new again. If you’ve ever hiked the Mist Trail, you know exactly what I mean. The spray from Vernal and Nevada Falls hits your skin like electricity the kind of wild, heart-pounding energy that makes you remember why you’re alive.
For couples dreaming of a Yosemite elopement that feels untamed but still peaceful, April through May is perfect. The temperatures are mild, the meadows start to bloom, and the crowds haven’t arrived yet. It’s the kind of season that reminds you love is supposed to feel like this: real, alive, and a little bit wild.
Summer
During summer, Yosemite sees its peak influx of visitors due to open facilities and school vacations. However, I advise against planning your wedding in the valley during this busy season.
For a more enjoyable summer experience, consider eloping in Tuolumne Meadows, located north of the valley at a higher elevation. The cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it a preferable alternative. Here, you can still enjoy breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like Half Dome, along with the added charm of alpine lakes and mountain vistas not found in the valley.
Want to see what this area looks like in action? Check out this Tuolumne Meadows kayaking elopement for an adventurous twist on a summer Yosemite wedding day.
Fall
Fall, especially September and October, is the sweet spot for eloping in Yosemite. The days stay warm, the evenings turn crisp, and the crowds finally fade. Trees burst into color, and the park feels calm and unhurried again.
If you’re dreaming of a Yosemite elopement that’s both stunning and practical, fall delivers both. Fewer visitors means better parking, more privacy, and the kind of quiet moments that make the day feel sacred..
Winter
Winter in Yosemite presents a unique opportunity for couples seeking privacy and adventure while eloping in Yosemite. While some iconic spots like Tuolumne, Half Dome, Glacier, and Taft Point may be off-limits due to snow, adventurous couples can still access these breathtaking vistas by snowshoeing, skiing, or hiking. Badger Pass Ski Area also offers thrilling opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, providing an adventurous twist to your winter elopement experience in Yosemite’s serene snow-covered landscape. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or adrenaline-filled activities, winter in Yosemite offers an unforgettable backdrop for your elopement adventure.
Want to see what a real winter elopement looks like? Check out this Badger Pass Elopement to get inspired by the light, snow, and quiet magic that makes winter in Yosemite unforgettable.
🌟 Insider Tip from a Yosemite Local
If you want to truly avoid the crowds, skip the weekend! Even with a sunrise ceremony, weekends bring in more visitors and traffic. For the most peaceful and intimate elopement experience, aim for a weekday sunrise ceremony during spring or fall. You’ll get the beauty of Yosemite without the crowds in your photos!
How to Elope in Yosemite: The Most Beautiful Ceremony Locations
Choosing where and how to elope in Yosemite depends on your guest size, season, and the kind of experience you want to create.
Yosemite has pre-approved ceremony sites for weddings and elopements, available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, if your group has fewer than 11 people (including you, your partner, officiant, and photographer), you’re not limited to those specific designated locations. You can choose another spot within the park as long as it follows park regulations and has minimal impact on the environment.
Keep in mind that some designated sites are only available during certain months, and you’ll still need to apply for a wedding permit. You can check seasonal availability and see the full list of approved ceremony locations on the official NPS website.
Lower Yosemite Falls
Max Capacity: 50 people
Season Availability: Open year-round. The falls typically flow from November through July, with peak flow in April and May. By late July or August, the water often slows to a trickle, leaving the granite walls dry until the next season’s melt.
You are not allowed to have your ceremony at the base of the falls but there is a designated spot with a great view of the falls. Yosemite Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the park which means it is also one of the most popular hikes. Make sure to plan for that accordingly. I recommend having a sunrise wedding to avoid the crowds. No parking available so you can either walk from the Lodge or take the Valley shuttle to Stop #6.
Glacier Point Amphitheater
Max Capacity: 50 people
Season Availability: Open from the Tuesday after Memorial Day through September 30. Weddings are not scheduled in July or August due to peak visitation and limited parking.
Glacier Point is the Yosemite view: Half Dome glowing in the background, waterfalls cascading in the distance, and sweeping views of the entire valley below. The amphitheater offers a designated space for ceremonies with that same jaw-dropping view, while keeping your experience intimate and organized.
Ready to start planning? Check out my How to Elope at Glacier Point guide for insider tips, location photos, and a sample elopement timeline or get inspired by this real Glacier Point elopement gallery.
Taft Point
Max Capacity: 11 people
Season Availability: Open from the Tuesday after Memorial Day through September 30.
Because the hike to Taft Point is roughly 2.2 miles roundtrip, plan to pack light and wear comfortable shoes. It’s worth every step once you reach the edge and see the entire valley stretching below. The small group limit makes this spot ideal for intimate elopements with only your closest people present (or just the two of you).
Keep in mind that parking can be limited especially in the evening. A weekday ceremony gives you the best chance at peace and privacy.
Yosemite Chapel
Max Capacity: 125 Guests
Season Availability: Open year-round
The chapel hosts both weddings and elopements and requires a separate reservation directly through the chapel office, not the park’s general permit system. Because it’s one of the few indoor venues in Yosemite, dates book quickly especially during spring and fall.
For more information about requirements, fees, and availability, visit the official Yosemite Chapel wedding page.
Other Notable Yosemite Elopement Locations
- Cascades Picnic Area: 30 people maximum, 8 cars, open year-round.
- Swinging Bridge Picnic Area: 20 people maximum, open year-round.
- Cathedral Beach Picnic Area: 50 people maximum, 6 cars, open the Tuesday after Memorial Day to October 31st.
- Sentinel Beach Picnic Area: 100 people maximum, 8 cars, open the Tuesday after Memorial Day to October 31st.
- Chilnualna Falls Trailhead Parking Lot: 50 people maximum, 8 cars, open year-round.
- Tenaya Lake Beach: 50 people maximum, open the Tuesday after Memorial Day to September 30th.
- Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Area: 25 people maximum, open the Tuesday after Memorial Day to September 30th.
- El Capitan Meadow: 15 people maximum, open year-round
- Tunnel View: 10 people maximum, open year-round
- Tuolumne Grove: 30 people maximum, Open year-round, though the hike is difficult in the winter with snow
- Merced Grove: 30 people maximum, Open year-round, though the hike is difficult in the winter with snow
🌟 Insider Tip from a Yosemite Local
If you’re craving peace and breathtaking beauty, head north to Tuolumne Meadows. Located at a higher elevation, this gem offers cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning views of iconic Yosemite landmarks like Half Dome. It’s the perfect spot for couples seeking solitude and a more serene elopement experience. Plus, you’ll get alpine lakes, mountain vistas, and a true sense of Yosemite’s untouched wilderness without the crowds.
How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Yosemite
Let’s talk numbers because knowing how to elope in Yosemite means understanding what it actually costs to bring your dream day to life. Yosemite elopements are as customizable as the couples who choose them, but here’s a realistic breakdown to help you plan.
Yosemite Elopement Cost Breakdown
- Special Use Permit: $150 (required by the National Park Service)
- Photographer: $3,000–$10,000 depending on hours of coverage, travel, and whether planning assistance is included
- Lodging: $200–$500 per night depending on location and season
- Park Entry, Florals, Attire, and Travel: $2,000–$5,000 depending on your style and needs
Total Estimated Cost
Most Yosemite elopements range from $3,000–$10,000 total, with simple sunrise ceremonies on the lower end and full-day adventure experiences (with hair, makeup, and multiple locations) on the higher end.
Your biggest expenses will usually be photography and travel, but those are also what preserve your memories long after the day is over. Think of it as investing in your story -not just a single day.
If you want to see what that kind of investment looks like in action, check out these real elopements:
If your heart’s already set on Yosemite, it’s time to make it real. I’ll help you plan every detail: permits, locations, timelines, and all the little magic in between.
👉 Inquire here to start your Yosemite elopement journey
FAQ’s
Can you legally elope in Yosemite National Park?
Yes. With a valid Special Use Permit from the National Park Service and valid marriage license you can absolutely get legally married in Yosemite.
How much does it cost to elope in Yosemite?
Expect to pay $150 for the park’s Special Use Permit, plus costs for travel, accommodations, and vendors. Most couples spend anywhere from $3,000 to $12,000 total, depending on how elaborate (or simple) they want their day to be. My Yosemite elopement packages start at $3200 and include planning support, photography, and timeline help.
Can we bring guests to our Yosemite elopement?
Generally it is considered an elopement if it’s just you two up until about 10 guests. After 10 guests it’s considered an intimate wedding. But I’m willing to photograph up to 20 guests.
Is there cell service in Yosemite?
Cell service is limited or nonexistent in most of the park, especially once you enter Yosemite Valley or head into the high country. I always prep couples with offline maps and backup communication plans just in case.
Can we bring our dog to our Yosemite elopement?
Dogs are only allowed in limited developed areas like paved paths, campgrounds, and picnic spots. They’re not permitted on most trails or ceremony sites. If including your pet is important, I can help you choose a dog-friendly spot outside the park for portraits.
Choosing the right photographer for your elopement:
I’m more than just your photographer.
As someone who lives in Yosemite National Park, I know the ins and the outs of the park. I will help you plan the perfect elopement that you will look back on with happy tears.
Are you ready to plan the elopement of your dreams? I’m excited to get to know you more and create magic together!
Inquire now!!
