Eastern Sierras Elopement Guide
The Eastern Sierra offers a breathtaking backdrop for couples seeking adventure-filled elopement. With the region's crystal clear alpine lakes, towering mountain peaks, and incredible scenic vistas, it's no wonder that the area has become a popular elopement destination. Whether you're looking for dramatic mountain top "I dos," a rustic and intimate ceremony among the pines, or a unique desert ceremony, the Eastern Sierra has it all. Let's explore the best of the region with this Range Of Light Wed Eastern Sierras elopement guide.
Range Of Light Wed
We're Range Of Light Wed, your elopement planning dream team. We are a group of seasoned local wedding professionals who want to support your elopement or small wedding journey. Our biggest goal is to give you a meaningful experience that feels just how you want it to.
We delight in sharing our home, the Sierra Nevadas, with couples ready to start their lives with big adventures or quiet moments. For us, it's not just about your elopement itself. Instead, it's about the experience of connecting with nature and each other in a deeply personal way. Whether you want to elope at Alabama Hills at sunset or drive down a dirt road to a private spot in the Eastern Sierras, we are here to help!
Why Should You Elope In The Eastern Sierras?
If you’re considering eloping in the Sierra Nevada mountains, let’s talk about if this is right for you. Here are a few reasons why we think the Eastern Sierras might be a good fit for you.
Breathtaking Locations
While the Sierra Nevadas have plenty of well-known locations, they are also home to some less popular and secluded spots. This makes the Sierras the perfect place to elope! You have famous spots where you can take photos (Hi, Joleen) and more remote locations where you’ll find privacy to say your vows.
Year Round Adventure
The Sierra Nevadas offer incredible adventure no matter the time of year! This is a great place to hike and explore when the weather is warm. In the winter, you can have the unique opportunity to head to hot springs in the desert and soak among the gorgeous snow. Or you can snowshoe, snowboard, and just have fun in the Eastern Sierra winter wonderland. No matter when you elope, it’s bound to be a fantastic experience in the Eastern Sierras.
National Parks
Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic destinations in the United States. AND it’s in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, along with beautiful Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. The stunning views of Yosemite will take your breath away, and the park offers plenty to explore for adventurous couples.
Check out our Yosemite National Park Elopement Package.
Range Of Light Wed Eastern Sierras Elopement Package
Tioga Pass, Mammoth Lakes, June Lakes, Bridgeport, Bishop, Alabama Hills, Lake Tahoe, and Inyo National Forest
On-site hair and makeup
Personal florals for 2 people
Officiant
Complimentary Champagne
Elegant Picnic Lunch
A gluten-free, organic, non-gmo cake
A table for 2 where local laws allow
A ceremony arch or ground florals
Seating for 15 people where permitted
Collaborative Timeline Planning
Location Suggestions
6 Hours of Photography Coverage (with option to extend)
Full Resolution files with printing rights.
Online gallery for printing and sharing.
NO TRAVEL FEES
Eastern Sierra Elopement Destinations
The Eastern Sierra region is a large expanse of mountains, meadows, and lakes that span from Lone Pine in the south to Bridgeport in the north. This includes a variety of stunning locations for your elopement.
Alabama Hills
You'll find Alabama Hill just outside of the beautiful Lone Pine. The area offers a unique desert landscape with gorgeous panoramic views and rock formations of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range. You'll have the choice of awe-inspiring vistas of Mount Whitney, unique rock formations, and the iconic Movie Road that has been in countless films. Alabama Hills offers a magical backdrop for saying your "I do's."
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes offers a variety of scenic locations for elopements, including Convict Lake, Lake Mary, and Minaret Vista. This is one of our favorite elopement locations, and that's saying a lot coming from us, native Northern Californians. Mammoth Lakes is a charming town in the mountains, and it's one of our absolute favorite places for an elopement! It has a little bit of everything, whether you want to relax lakeside, grab a beer at a local craft brewery, or go hiking or paddle-boarding.
June Lake Loop
The June Lake Loop is a scenic drive with four picturesque lakes surrounded by mountains. It's a popular spot for camping, fishing, and hiking and offers several great locations for elopements. These include…
June Lake Beach
June Mountain
Silver Lake
Double Eagle
Bishop Creek Canyon
If you're looking for a gorgeous alpine canyon, then Bishop Creek Canyon on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada range might be perfect for you. The canyon features several waterfalls, alpine lakes, and hiking trails. It's also a popular location for fall elopements.
Lake Mary
You'll find this beautiful lake just minutes from the charming town of Mammoth Lakes. In the summer, we highly recommend eloping during the stunning golden sunsets after a day on the lake, paddle boarding, or kayaking. During winter, you can snowshoe to the lake and even walk on top of it!
Mammoth Mountain
Did you know that you can elope on Mammoth Mountain? That's right, you can get married in this popular skiing and snowboarding spot! During the summer, take the gondola to the top and get married at 11 thousand feet. That's pretty cool, right? Whether you dream of an outdoor summer elopement or a magical winter wedding, you can make it happen on Mammoth Mountain.
Convict Lake
Convict Lake is a small alpine lake surrounded by towering granite mountains. This picturesque elopement location offers stunning views of the glassy lake with mountains in the background, making it the perfect place to say "I do." Whether you want a more traditional wedding at Convict Lake Resort or to find a place to say your vows lakeside, there are options for everyone. Convict Lake is easy to access and is ideal for a fall elopement if you want to be surrounded by yellow, orange, and red-changing leaves.
Benton Hot Springs
For a completely unique elopement, Benton Hot Springs is perfect for couples who want to be immersed in nature and want to camp. The resort at Benton Hot Springs allows you to soak in a public or private tub. Trust us when we say hot springs are an amazingly relaxing experience, and how amazing would it be to say your "I do's" here?
Yosemite National Park
Why should you elope at Yosemite National Park? The real question is, why not? The beauty and adventure of Yosemite is magical, making it a perfect complement to the adventure the two of you share. The dramatic cliffs, towering waterfalls, and meadows filled with wildlife are just a few of the things that make Yosemite the perfect place to elope.
Range Of Light Wed Secret Destinations
In addition to the above, as your Eastern Sierra elopement planning dream team (and avid adventurers), we all have our favorite secret spots in the Eastern Sierras. Whether you're looking for a private ceremony spot in the backcountry or something more accessible for guests, we've got you covered!
Getting Around The Eastern Sierras
The Eastern Sierra region is easily accessible by car, with several major highways and scenic routes.
Air
If you fly into the Eastern Sierra, you’ve got a few options in terms of airports. There are 2 major airports that you can fly into in the Eastern Sierra: Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH). Reno is about 2.5 hours north of Mammoth Lakes, while Mammoth Yosemite is located in the heart of the Eastern Sierra. However, Mammoth Yosemite is a much smaller airport, so you may pay a premium to fly into this airport.
We would like to mention that if you fly into MMH, public transportation options are limited to Mammoth Lakes. A few taxi companies service Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) and can provide transportation to Mammoth Lakes and other locations in the Eastern Sierra.
Your Own Car
Driving is by far the most common way to reach the Eastern Sierras. You’ll find US Highway 395 runs north-south through the region and can be accessed from major cities such as Reno, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas. The drive is scenic and offers several pull-offs where you’ll want to stop and take in the views.
Rental Car
If you need to rent a car when you arrive in the Eastern Sierras, there is no need to worry! We recommend booking your rental car before you get here, particularly during peak tourism seasons, which include summer and fall. You’ll find the typical rental car companies at both airports, including:
Avis
Budget
Enterprise
Hertz
We recommend renting an all-wheel drive or a 4x4 so you aren’t restricted in where you can travel in the Eastern Sierras! We’ve got some really fun, rugged dirt roads out here!
Public Transportation
Public transportation is limited in the Eastern Sierras, but there are some options available. Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA) operates bus services, including Bishop, Mammoth Lakes, and Lone Pine stops. Your other option is the YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System), a bus service that offers connections to Yosemite National Park from Mammoth Lakes during the summer months.
What To Do For Your Eastern Sierra Elopement
There is something for everyone in the Eastern Sierras; whether you want to kayak an alpine lake, hike to a waterfall, or relax in hot springs, we've got you covered!
Relaxing Elopement Activities
Soak In Hot Springs
The Eastern Sierra region is home to numerous natural hot springs, including Benton Hot Springs, Wild Willy's Hot Springs, Keough's Hot Springs, and Travertine Hot Springs. You could start your elopement day with a dip in the hot springs at sunrise. What an epic way to start your wedding day! Or end your elopement day with a relaxing soak as the sun slips below the horizon; this is such a memorable way to end your big day!
Go fishing
The region is home to some of the best fishing in the country, with numerous alpine lakes, rivers, and streams offering anglers the opportunities to catch trout, bass, and perch, among other fish. Most of the area's lakes also offer boat and kayak rentals, an excellent way to explore the water and enjoy the scenery.
Adventurous Elopement Activities
Take A Hike
There are thousands of trails in this area with varying lengths and difficulty levels that are perfect for all hiking skill levels. Most hikes in the Eastern Sierras offer stunning views of pine forests, lakes, creeks, waterfalls, jagged granite mountain peaks, and deep valleys.
Check out Parker Lake for a moderate 3.6-mile trail
For a moderate 6.3-mile hike, we love Conness Lake
Or Little Lakes Valley, a moderate 7.2-mile trail
Bike Around Mammoth
You'll find several bike rental shops in Mammoth Lakes, including Footloose Sports and Get Outdoors 365, each offering a collection of mountain bikes and bikes perfect for cruising around town. Electric bikes are generally around $125 daily, while mountain bikes are around $120.
Celebrate Under The Stars By Camping
There are some stunning campsites scattered throughout the Eastern Sierras. You'll need to make reservations in advance on Recreation.gov for most of them. Be sure to check availability before making any camping plans for your elopement! A few of our favorites include:
Tuttle Creek Campground - Mammoth Lakes
Convict Lake Campground - Convict Lake
Oh Ridge Campground - June Lake
Kayaking Mammoth Lakes
There are many accessible lakes where you can rent kayaks, such as June Lake, Lake Mary, Convict Lake, and Crowley Lake. You can get more information here, including an extensive list of boat/paddle rentals in the area.
The Best Time To Elope In The Eastern Sierras
There are several things to consider when deciding when to elope in the Eastern Sierras.
The Weather
In the Eastern Sierra, your experience will be defined by the weather. With four distinct seasons, you can elope any time of the year here.
The Landscape
The landscape of the Eastern Sierras changes dramatically with the seasons (and we've got 'em all). If you want to elope among wildflowers, late spring is the best time. Fall offers colorful foliage, while winter provides a snowy wonderland. Summer has the most abundant wildlife and is a great time to explore the high country.
The Other Travelers
We recommend avoiding peak tourist seasons if you want a more intimate and private elopement experience. These typically fall during summer and holidays, which can be particularly busy here. Winter weekends are also popular for skiing and snowboarding.
The Eastern Sierras offer a beautiful and diverse destination for your elopement year-round. No matter when you choose to elope, you'll be surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty and abundant outdoor adventures.
If you're looking for…
A dazzling show of stunning yellows, reds, and oranges and a temperate day - we recommend eloping in late Sept - early Oct.
If you want warm summer days with flower-filled meadows and perfectly starry nights - an elopement in July and August would be perfect for you.
Who wouldn't want to get married in a beautiful winter wonderland? If you are okay with cold temperatures and potential road closures, we think an elopement in January or February would be a great fit.
Where To Stay For Your Eastern Sierras Elopement
There are many different towns and areas that are very spread apart in the Eastern Sierras. So, the first step is to identify where you want to elope and stay during your time here. Scattered throughout the Sierra Nevadas, you'll find charming lodges, cabins, inns, and plenty of places to stay!
Lodges & Inns
Some of the coziest places to stay are the historic lodges and inns in the Eastern Sierras. We love Evergreen Lodge, located right outside Yosemite, with cabins tucked into the pines. The Bridgeport Inn is also one of our favorites for its unique, vintage feel. The Convict Lake Resort is another excellent option with 27 charming mountain cabins, and it's the perfect base for exploring the Eastern Sierras.
Glamping In The Eastern Sierras
We recommend checking out glamping in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range for a unique place to stay. You'll find everything from yurts to canvas tents to treehouses. You can stay in a Caboose, Tipi, or Airstream in nearby Oakhurst.
The Legal Stuff
We know the legal stuff isn't as fun to talk about, but we want you to be legally married when you elope. So you'll need to know about California's marriage laws and the paperwork!
Wedding Permits In The Eastern Sierras
Some elopement locations in the Eastern Sierra Mountains require a wedding permit for your elopement. We'll need to check on this, depending on your chosen elopement location. Every elopement destination here has different rules and regulations. Keep in mind that some of these elopement spots require no permits and have no restrictions.
Marriage License In The Eastern Sierras
A marriage license is required to get married in the United States legally. You'll need to get yours from the state of California. This is a breeze if you live here because you can get your marriage license at the county clerk's office closest to you.
However, if you're traveling, choose the county clerk's office closest to where you'll be staying. You can find the application online, print it out, and bring it when you get your marriage license. Some offices require an appointment, so make sure to check before you go. You'll need both of your photo IDs, and from there, you'll sign the application and get your marriage license on the same day.
The closest county clerk's office to Mammoth Lakes is in Mono County.
Your Elopement Officiant
You'll need an officiant to sign the marriage license when you elope! There are a few options, including hiring an elopement officiant or Range Of Light Weds; Alyssa would be happy to be your officiant. As an all-inclusive elopement service, we understand that ease and privacy are important to our couples, so Alyssa is ordained and can do the paperwork, too.
Elopement Witness
Having a witness is also a legal requirement for elopement in California. If you were planning on it being just the two of you, don't worry! We can be your elopement witness(es).
How To Elope In The Eastern Sierras
We would love to help you plan your Eastern Sierras elopement, but here is a step-by-step idea of how we'll do that!
Hire Range Of Light Wed
We're here to help you every step of the way, including in the planning process. Our Joleen (resident photographer) loves to help our couples come up with a detailed itinerary for the day, and she's excellent at it! From there, we'll…
Decide On Your Season/Date
We'll start by helping you choose a season you'd like to elope in (see above for a quick season breakdown). This helps you to narrow down a month and date for your elopement. If you already have a date, let's find your perfect location.
Finding Your Perfect Location
The Eastern Sierra is vast and surrounded by natural beauty. You'll find a little of every landscape here, including mountains, deserts, lakes, and pine forests. You'll want to choose a location that suits the two of you best. What feels right to you? We'll find the location that ignites your soul and inspires you and go from there.
Talk Photography
Joleen is happy to discuss what you're looking for, but her general style is a beautiful mix of candid and perfectly captured images. She wants your photos to feel authentic to you! Your elopement package will include 6 hours of photography coverage with the option to extend.
Talk Hair and Make Up With Alyssa
Next, you'll discuss hair and makeup with our resident beauty expert Alyssa. She is known for providing an effortlessly polished look suited to each bride. She loves a Yosemite elopement!
Talk Florals With Susan
Susan is our talented event florist and provides personal florals for our couples. Of course, she's up for a challenge and can provide much more than that. She's known for bright and airy florals and blending her bouquets and boutonnieres perfectly with the gorgeous Eastern Sierras scenery.
Talk Gourmet Picnic With Robin
Robin is here to provide your gourmet picnic (sometimes your cake). She's known for fantastic charcuterie boards and delicious gourmet meals that will leave you wanting more.
Talk Cake With Meggie
Of course, you'll need an elopement cake! Our Meggie loves to provide all-natural, organic cakes for our couples. Trust us, they are SO good!
Obtain The Necessary Permits (Mentioned Above)
Depending on where you choose to elope, you'll need to obtain permits for the ceremony. The Eastern Sierras are vast, and the region falls under various jurisdictions; your elopement location will determine who you contact. Don't worry, we'll help steer you in the right direction.
Obtain Your Marriage License (Mentioned Above)
To elope in the Eastern Sierra, you'll need to get a marriage license from a California county clerk's office in California. The closest one to the Eastern Sierras region is the Mono County Clerk's office. You can apply for a license online and pick it up in person. Keep in mind you'll need to make an appointment at your chosen county clerk's office.
Choose The Right Dress/Suit
The Eastern Sierra is known for its outdoor adventures, so be sure to dress appropriately for weather, terrain, and, of course, for your elopement. Choose comfortable shoes for hiking and explore the area beforehand to ensure you feel confident and relaxed on your wedding day.
Get Hitched!
Let's get you married in the Eastern Sierras! After all - it's what this entire thing is about! Outdoor elopements in the Eastern Sierras can be unpredictable, and we always advise that you embrace whatever comes your way on the big day! We'll be here to help, but go with whatever happens. We've got you!
Range Of Light - Leave No Trace
At Range Of Light Wed we always practice Leave No Trace, and our favorite places are often the most impacted by the presence of humans. If you’re familiar with this area in California, the growing popularity shows in terms of the amount of waste left behind. We love that people are getting outside and enjoying the Eastern Sierras, but it’s more important than ever to follow Leave No Trace (LNT) guidelines and protect these unique places.
Eloping in the Eastern Sierras is a wonderfully intimate and beautiful way to celebrate your love. We can’t wait to help you!
