Yosemite National Park Elopement Guide
So, you've been dreaming of eloping at Yosemite National Park? It can be overwhelming once you finally pick that perfect elopement destination (if you need help choosing a spot in the Sierra Nevadas, check out our Best Elopement Destinations In The Sierra Nevadas Guide. We want you to have all the information you need on the perfect Yosemite elopement or wedding and the process for getting married in Yosemite National Park.
Range Of Light Wed
We're Range Of Light Wed, your Sierra Nevada's 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.
Should I Elope?
If you are still trying to figure out if eloping is right for you, check out our Big Wedding vs Elopement guide. We believe that if you are over the "show" that weddings can bring, tired of everyone else’s opinions on how YOUR day should look, or stunned by the insane cost of a big wedding, then eloping with Range Of Light Wed might be right for you.
We believe in an intentional day that is all about you and your partner. We are here for those seeking a peaceful commitment day experience among the grandeur of Yosemite National Park.
Why Have Your Elopement In Yosemite?
The real question is, why not? The beauty and adventure of Yosemite is pure magic, making it a perfect complement to the adventure and beauty you two share. Dramatic cliffs, towering waterfalls, and meadows filled with wildlife are just a few of the things that make Yosemite the perfect place to elope.
Let's get into everything you need to know for your Yosemite elopement!
Your Yosemite Elopement Guide
Yosemite National Park is a spectacular wonder of the natural world, showcasing glowing rocks, gushing waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. It's no wonder it's one of California's most popular wedding and elopement destinations. Yosemite is known for its granite cliffs, sparkling lakes, giant sequoia groves, gorgeous mountains, glacier carved valley, and impressive waterfalls. Around 95% of the park is classified as wilderness, making eloping at Yosemite even more special.
How To Elope At Yosemite
Step 1 - Choose Your Date/Time Of Year (more on that below)
Once you decide to elope in Yosemite, you will need to choose your date or a favorite season. It's a good idea to have a general location in mind, as you can only elope in designated locations. This is, of course, just a starting point. As your Yosemite elopement dream team, we are location experts and can guide you to the perfect Yosemite elopement locations and the best time of year to elope in Yosemite.
Step 2 - Book Your Yosemite Elopement Dream Team - Hiiiiiiiiii!
Now, it's time to book your Yosemite elopement dream team. We offer Yosemite Elopement Packages that provide everything you need in one convenient location.
Yosemite Elopement Packages include:
On-site hair and makeup
Personal florals for 2 people
Officiant and concierge marriage license service
Complimentary Champagne
Elegant Picnic Lunch
A gluten-free, organic, non-gmo cake
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
Step 3 - Obtain Permits (read below)
This is a crucial step in your Yosemite Elopement because Yosemite wedding permits are first come, first served. You must apply for the permits at least 3 months in advance. The sooner you apply, the better. We can help guide you through that process, and you can read more about it below.
Step 4 - Make Your Travel Plans
Yosemite is in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains (the Range Of Light) of California. It is not close to any of the major airports, so we recommend flying into Los Angeles, Sacramento, or even San Francisco or San Jose. For a smaller, closer airport, you have the option of Fresno, but the cost is significantly higher.
You could fly into Reno, Nevada, if you wanted to pair your Yosemite Elopement with a honeymoon trip to Lake Tahoe.
From the airports, you will need to rent a car to drive to Yosemite. Once in the park, you can take the shuttles to trailheads and scenic areas, hike, or bike.
Step 5 - Apply For Your California Marriage License (more on that below)
Besides the park permit for your Yosemite elopement, you will also need a marriage certificate. In California, you must obtain your marriage license from a clerk's office with your partner. You also will need an officiant and one witness to perform/sign the paperwork (we are happy to do both).
Now, enjoy your Yosemite elopement!
What Time Of Year Is Best For Yosemite Elopement?
You can elope in Yosemite National Park at any time of the year, and our answer really depends on what you are looking for. It comes down to when it is best for you to elope in Yosemite and what type of experience you are looking for. We love Spring and Fall for the best Yosemite Elopement seasons.
Spring Elopement In Yosemite
Spring in Yosemite means the waterfalls in the park are incredibly beautiful. Keep in mind that some of the most popular elopement locations may not be accessible via car during Spring, but you can hike in if you are up for the epic adventure elopement (trust us, it is so WORTH it!) Snow storms are also unpredictable in the spring, and the valley can receive late snow through May, and sometimes even early June. But weather in Spring is what makes Yosemite so majestic, and there is nothing more beautiful than the sky after a spring storm.
Summer Yosemite Elopement
Summer is generally the busiest time in the park, but if you are looking for the sunniest predictable weather, then it's great. The park is beautiful at this time of year, but you'll have to endure the summer heat. The combination of the heat and crowds makes summer one of the least desirable seasons to elope in Yosemite, in our opinion.
Also, keep in mind that summer is peak fire season, and the park has been known to shut down due to nearby smoke and fires.
Fall Elopement In Yosemite
We absolutely love Yosemite National Park in the fall. Fall in Yosemite is just plain magical, as the valley is lit in vibrant yellows and oranges. The end of October in Yosemite brings cooler temperatures, and the fall colors really pop. One of the best things about fall for you adventurers trying to make the most out of sunrise and sunset in Yosemite (recommended!) is that you won’t have quite as early of a wake up call.
Keep in mind that you will start to see road closures beginning in early November.
Winter Yosemite Elopement
While Tioga Pass and Glacier point road close in winter, the giant valley will still be accessible and makes an absolutely stunning private and beautiful elopement location! You can gain access to the park via the Wawona (highway 41) and Big Oak Flat (highway 120) entrances during the winter. The park is close to empty during the winter months, so privacy and intimacy are the focus for winter elopements.
Sunrise vs. Sunset Yosemite Elopement
Yosemite is one of those rare elopement destinations with locations that offer truly epic views for sunrise and sunset. We recommend starting at sunrise if you're feeling adventurous and ready to get the most out of your Yosemite experience. Sunrise means fewer tourists and crowds, but it also means you'll be getting ready early in the morning and hiking in the dark if your spot involves hiking. All of which we are totally down for, by the way!
Most people choose Glacier Point for a sunrise session because of the sun peaking out from behind Half Dome and creating the most beautiful warm glow, and it offers stunning sunrise light.
If you are not a morning person, don't worry. Sunsets at Yosemite are just as spectacular.. At sunset, there is plenty of time to enjoy the stunning views, share an activity, exchange private vows, and take some lovely photos. We will soak up every last drop of sunlight and even stick around for gorgeous "blue hour photos," which happen when the sun is below the horizon. Joleen (our resident Yosemite elopement photographer) loves to document you sharing a nightcap lit by your headlamps.
Yosemite Elopement Locations
There are so many beautiful spots to elope in Yosemite. The park has 11 dedicated ceremony locations for your Yosemite elopement. However, if you have a maximum of 11 people attending your ceremony, you are not limited to just these 11 locations. If your guest list is over 11 guests, these are the 11 ceremony locations to get married in Yosemite.
Glacier Point
Glacier Point is one of the most popular destinations in the park, where you are up close and personal with the most iconic peak in the world, Half Dome. We love Glacier Point at sunrise for lesser crowds and catch the sun rising over Half Dome. Remember that the road to Glacier Point does close in the winter months.
Best Seasons: Summer - Fall
Number Of Guests: 50 Max
Range Of Light Wed Tip: Glacier Point is one of the most popular locations in Yosemite, so we will need to get there early if you want a private ceremony.
Taft Point
With beautiful views of El Capitan and the Yosemite Valley, Taft Point is an epic spot for sunset, where you can chase the sun as it sets behind the valley. As one of the most iconic lookout points in Yosemite, it's one of the park's busier locations, especially during sunset. This Yosemite elopement location isn't for the faint of heart, as Taft Point is a staggering 3,500 feet high. You can read all of our Taft Point Wedding Photo Tips.
Best Seasons: Summer - Fall
Number Of Guests: 11
Range Of Light Wed Tip: Taft point is absolutely worth it. The view, combined with the granite platform, is seemingly designed for epic photos. As a wedding and elopement team, your experience is our top priority.
Tunnel View
Tunnel view is a great “tourist” pit stop on your way back down from Glacier Point, but we don’t recommend it as a ceremony location. Even at sunrise, folks are lined up to watch the sun paint the valley with light. We love to grab this as a quick photo op, but don’t recommend it for a ceremony due to its lack of privacy. If it’s just the two of you, there’s a few other locations nearby that aren’t quite tunnel views, but still have the same vibe.
Best Season: Open Year Round
Number Of Guests: 11 Max
Range Of Light Wed Tip: If your guest list is small enough or you are eloping just the two of you, there are plenty of places around Tunnel View to explore to escape the crowds.
El Capitan Meadow
While Glacier and Taft have amazing views, there is something to be said for exploring Yosemite Valley for your elopement. Surrounded by granite towers, waterfalls, and beautiful trees, this elopement location is excellent for adventurous spirits. As a bonus, El Capitan Meadow is also easily accessible with plenty of parking, and there are nice wooded areas and quiet spots to exchange your vows.
Best Season: Open Year Round
Number Of Guests: 50 Max
Range Of Light Wed Tip: There is lots of parking available along the road at El Cap Meadow. If you’re hosting your ceremony here, we always recommend early morning or late afternoon for the best light.
Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the United States, so the Falls are a popular elopement location. Honestly, the falls make an epic background for your vows. Just keep in mind the waterfall can be loud and quite busy during the summer months. You are not permitted to have the ceremony at the base of the falls. However, there is a designated area with a backdrop of the top of the falls. The trail to reach the elopement spot is heavily trafficked, so we will be sure to plan accordingly.
Season: Spring, Early Summer
Number Of Guests: 50 Max
Range Of Light Wed Tip: For photos, the best views of Yosemite Falls will be on the trail leading to the elopement location or from below the falls themselves.
Other Yosemite Elopement Locations:
Glacier Point Amphitheater
Chilnualna Falls
Tenaya Lake Beach
Tuolumne Meadows
Cascades Picnic Area
Swinging Bridge
Cathedral Beach
Bridalveil Fall
Tuolumne Grove
Merced Grove
Getting Your Yosemite Elopement Permit
Yosemite's permit process is very straightforward. You should submit your special use permit application as soon as possible. This is because each ceremony location is on a first-come, first-serve basis, so make sure to get your permit in early.
To obtain a Yosemite elopement permit, fill out the special use application on the park's website. The bride or groom's Social Security Numbers MUST be on the form to be processed, or they will not approve it. Once you have completed your application, you must send a $150 nonrefundable check or money order to the permit office.
Special Park Uses/Film and Weddings
Yosemite National Park, National Park Service
P.O. Box 700
El Portal, CA 95318
Your permit must be submitted between 21 days and up to 1 year before your elopement date. If your event requires monitoring (small weddings with 30-50 guests), you might need to pay an additional fee of $50 an hour for monitoring.
Once the permit is approved by NPS, you will get a copy that needs to be signed and mailed back. Yosemite National Park will send you an official permit that you will need to have with you on the day of your elopement.
Yosemite Vehicle Reservation System (2024)
Yosemite National Park has implemented a vehicle reservation system during the busy months (ahem, Summertime) to help cut back on traffic and parking issues. This year, the vehicle reservations system will look this:
April 13 through June 30: reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (Memorial Day & Juneteenth).
July 1 through August 16: Daily reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm.
August 17 through October 27: reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (Labor Day & Columbus Day).
Yosemite vehicle reservations are valid for 3 consecutive days, and to obtain a vehicle reservation, you will need to visit recreation.gov. There is a $2 nonrefundable service fee that you will be charged when securing your vehicle reservation.
Keep in mind that if you are staying in the park, you may not need a vehicle reservation during your stay. You also don't need a vehicle reservation for your Yosemite elopement day since your Wedding permit will act as a vehicle reservation.
Curry Village, Housekeeping Camp, Yosemite Valley Lodge, The Ahwahnee, Wawona Hotel, White Wolf Lodge, and Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
Private lodging or vacation rental in Wawona, Yosemite West, or Foresta
Yosemite wilderness permit or Half Dome permit
Yosemite Entry Fee
In addition to your Yosemite wedding permit and the Yosemite vehicle reservation, you will also need to either pay the entry fee ($35 for 3 days) or purchase an America the Beautiful Pass ($80), which will allow you access to any national park in the United States for one year.
How Much Does It Cost To Elope At Yosemite?
The cost of a Yosemite Elopement? This depends on you! What might be a priority cost-wise for you might not even make the radar for another couple. If you are looking for a general ballpark of what you can expect your elopement to cost in Yosemite? Here's the general consensus:
Yosemite Elopement Photographer - Around $6,000
Yosemite Wedding Permit - $150 – Yosemite requires a wedding permit to get married in the park. $35 for park entry and $2 for vehicle reservation.
Marriage License - $60 – Mariposa County will be the closest place to obtain a marriage license for your Yosemite elopement.
Yosemite Officiant - $400+ Yosemite officiants are like no other. You can expect a fantastic ceremony with many fun facts with these guys.
Hair and Makeup - $300 – $600 – Yosemite hair and makeup artists may require a travel fee because of the distance from where they live.
Yosemite Lodging - $500 – $3,000
Chef or Catering for two - $200 – $400 – Private chefs are the rage right now, making for a stress-free dinner option.
Elopement Florals - $275 – $1500
Included In Range Of Light Wed's Yosemite Elopement Package
Our Yosemite elopement package includes everything you need to have an epic adventure elopement in the park!
On-site hair and makeup
Personal florals for 2 people
Officiant and concierge marriage license service
Complimentary Champagne
Elegant Picnic Lunch
A gluten-free, organic, non-gmo cake
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
*DOES NOT include any permits required by Yosemite. Yosemite does not allow a table set up (must use existing tables), arch, or props. We will deck out the picnic tables, though!
We would love to be your Yosemite elopement planning dream team!