Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic places to get married in California and one of the most famous national parks in the world. As an elopement photographer who has been to and photographed elopements in multiple national parks in the United States, Yosemite is easily one of the best. Whether you’re exchanging vows at the edge of a cliff, beside a river, or beneath the trees, few places compare to Yosemite’s natural beauty.
In this guide, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about how to elope in Yosemite National Park. From where you can legally get married and the best Yosemite elopement locations, to permits, costs, lodging, timelines, and insider photographer tips, this is your complete, start-to-finish Yosemite elopement planning guide.
Can I Get Married Anywhere in Yosemite?
In most cases, yes, but there are a few important rules to be aware of.
Elopements With 11 or Less People
If your total group includes 11 people or fewer (this count includes you, your photographer, officiant, and any vendors), you can hold your ceremony practically anywhere in Yosemite National Park. The only place you can’t have a ceremony include in open meadows or riparian areas, which include rivers, streams, or wetlands.
Elopements With 11 or More People
If your group is larger than 11 people, Yosemite limits ceremonies to designated, pre-approved locations only. These are the only places where larger ceremonies are allowed:
- Cascades Picnic Area – 30 people max, open year-round
- Lower Yosemite Falls Paved Trail – 50 people max, open year-round
- Swinging Bridge Picnic Area – 20 people max, open year-round
- Cathedral Beach Picnic Area – 50 people max, weddings advised the Tuesday after Memorial Day-October 31st
- Sentinel Beach Picnic Area – 100 people max, weddings advised the Tuesday after Memorial Day-October 31st
- Bridalveil Fall – 50 people max
- Glacier Point Amphitheater – 50 people max, weddings advised the Tuesday after Memorial Day-September 30th, weddings are not scheduled here in July and August.
- Chilnualna Falls Trailhead Parking Lot – 50 people max, weddings advised the Tuesday after Memorial Day-September 30th
- Tenaya Lake Beach – 50 people max, weddings advised the Tuesday after Memorial Day-September 30th
- Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Area – 25 people max, weddings advised the Tuesday after Memorial Day-September 30th
- Tuolumne Grove – 30 people max, weddings advised the Tuesday after Memorial Day-September 30th
- Merced Grove – 30 people max, weddings advised the Tuesday after Memorial Day-September 30th
To see season availability and a full list of ceremony locations within the park, check out this official list.
Important note: When Yosemite lists ceremony locations as being “advised” between certain dates (for example, Tuesday after Memorial Day through October 31), this does not mean you are strictly limited to that window. These dates reflect the park’s recommendations based on accessibility and conditions. Many locations, like Glacier Point Amphitheater, are often accessible into early November depending on weather and road closures. In fact, October is one of my favorite months to elope in Yosemite thanks to cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
5 Best Places to Elope in Yosemite
Yosemite is massive, and while you can elope in many areas of the park with a small group, these are the locations truly stand out. The five locations below are my top recommendations for couples looking for the scenery Yosemite is famous for.
Taft Point
Taft Point is probably the most iconic elopement location in Yosemite, and there’s a good chance you’ve already seen wedding photos taken here. Perched high above Yosemite Valley, this location has some of the best views of El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the valley floor. It’s especially popular at sunset. With sheer drop-offs and a 3,500-foot vertical view, this spot is undeniably stunning but definitely not for the faint of heart.
- Max capacity: 11 people.
- Season availability: The Tuesday after Memorial Day to September 30th.
- Hiking required: Yes, an easy 2.3 miles roundtrip.
- Crowd level: High, especially at sunset.
Photographer tip: Sunrise is your best friend here for avoiding crowds. If you visit during sunset, prepare to see other couples taking photos and tourists enjoying the view.
Glacier Point
Glacier Point is one of the most accessible ceremony locations in Yosemite. You can drive right up, step out of the car, and immediately be greeted with views of Half Dome. The amphitheater allows for larger guest counts, but smaller ceremonies and portraits often take place at nearby viewpoints that tend to have less crowds.
- Max capacity: 50 people.
- Season availability: The Tuesday after Memorial Day to September 30th. Weddings are not allowed in July or August.
- Hiking required: No.
- Crowd level: Very high.
Photographer tip: Plan portraits away from the main overlook. A short walk along nearby paths can give you the same views with fewer people.
Tunnel View
Tunnel View is one of the most recognizable viewpoints in Yosemite and often the first stop for visitors entering the park. From here, you’ll see El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and Half Dome. While the scenery is unbeatable, this location sees constant foot traffic and cars coming and going, which makes it better suited for short ceremonies or portraits rather than a longer vow exchange.
- Max capacity: 11 people.
- Season availability: Open year-round (weather permitting).
- Hiking required: No.
- Crowd level: Extremely high.
Photographer tip: Use Tunnel View for portraits rather than your ceremony. If you do plan a ceremony here, sunrise is the only realistic option for privacy.
El Capitan Meadow
El Capitan Meadow is one of the quieter elopement locations for a Yosemite elopement. There’s lots of space to move around which means your chances of privacy are a lot higher. Here you’ll find waterfalls, granite walls, and forests. It’s a great choice for couples who want a more private ceremony location and are open to doing portraits later at more popular viewpoints like Taft Point or Glacier Point.
- Max capacity: 11 people.
- Season availability: Open year-round (weather permitting).
- Hiking required: No.
- Crowd level: Moderate.
Photographer tip: This is a great backup location if higher elevations are fogged out.
Sentinel Dome
Sentinel Dome is perfect for couples who love Glacier Point–style views but want fewer crowds. After a short hike, you’re rewarded with panoramic, 360-degree views of Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the surrounding High Sierra. It feels remote without being overly strenuous and often provides more breathing room than Yosemite’s most famous overlooks.
- Max capacity: 11 people.
- Season availability: The Tuesday after Memorial Day to October 31st.
- Hiking required: Yes, a moderate 2.2 miles roundtrip.
- Crowd level: Moderate.
Photographer tip: This is one of the best sunset locations in the park.
How to Get a Yosemite Wedding Permit
To elope in Yosemite National Park, you’ll need a special use permit. Yosemite does not issue wedding permits on holiday weekends (Saturday through Monday), and permits are approved on a first come, first served basis. The permit fee is $150.
How to Apply
- Download and fill out the permit application.
- Mail the completed application along with a $150 check or money order to:
- Special Park Uses/Film and Weddings
Yosemite National Park, National Park Service
P.O. Box 700
El Portal, CA 95318
- Special Park Uses/Film and Weddings
- Once your application is received, the park will review it and mail you a draft permit to sign. This step may take a few weeks.
- Sign the draft permit and mail it back to the park.
- After approval, you’ll receive your final permit in the mail. Be sure to bring a printed copy with you on your elopement day.
Important Things to Know
You can apply for a permit up to one year in advance, but no later than 21 days before your elopement date. Because Yosemite is one of the most popular national parks for weddings and elopements, permits for specific locations can fill quickly, so applying as early as possible is highly recommended.
If your ceremony requires park monitoring, which typically applies to weddings with 30+ guests, there is an additional ranger monitoring fee of $50 per hour.
Photographer tip: Decorations are very limited in Yosemite. Arches and large décor items are not allowed, and chairs are only permitted if required for accessibility.
2026 Timed Entry Reservations
In 2025, Yosemite required timed entry reservations from late May through early September between 5:00am and 2:00pm. These reservations were released online seven days before entry and were required for all people entering the park.
As of January 9, 2026, Yosemite has not yet announced whether timed entry reservations will be implemented again. That said, given the volume of visitors the park sees each year, it’s something to keep in mind when planning your elopement. I recommend checking the park’s official website regularly as your date approaches in case the reservation system returns.
How Crowded Is Yosemite?
Yosemite is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, and it shows. Crowds are especially heavy from June through August, often resulting in full parking lots, packed trails, and traffic delays that can last for hours.
If you’re set on eloping in Yosemite, a weekday ceremony at sunrise or sunset will give you the best chance at a low-crowd experience. If flexibility is an option, visiting during the shoulder seasons or winter months can make a huge difference. And if complete privacy is a top priority for you, Yosemite may feel overwhelming compared to less-visited parks.
How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Yosemite?
At a minimum, eloping in Yosemite costs $245, which includes the $150 wedding permit, a $60 California marriage license, and the $35 park entrance fee. Beyond that, total elopement costs vary widely depending on travel, lodging, photography, attire, and any additional vendors you choose to include.
Most couples spend anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 on their Yosemite elopement. Below are a few sample budgets to give you a better idea of what your elopement could look like at different price points.
High-End Yosemite Wedding
- $500 – plane tickets
- $60 – marriage license
- $150 – wedding permit
- $2,000 – three nights at a luxury resort
- $6,500 – photographer
- $700 – florist for bouquet
- $3,000 – dress, accessories, and shoes
- $500 – hair and makeup
- $800 – suit, accessories, and shoes
- $500 – private chef
- TOTAL: $14,710
Mid-End Yosemite Wedding
- $500 – plane tickets
- $60 – marriage license
- $150 – wedding permit
- $1,000 – three nights at a 3-star hotel
- $4,500 – photographer
- $400 – florist for bouquet
- $1,500 – dress, accessories, and shoes
- $400 – hair and makeup
- $500 – suit, accessories, and shoes
- TOTAL: $10,010
Low-End Yosemite Wedding
- $500 – plane tickets
- $60 – marriage license
- $150 – wedding permit
- $500 – three nights at a simple hotel/airbnb
- $2,500 – photographer
- $200 – florist for bouquet
- $700 – dress, accessories, and shoes
- $300 – hair and makeup
- $300 – suit (rented)
- TOTAL: $5,210
How to Get a Marriage License for Your Yosemite Elopement
You can get a marriage license from any county in California, but I highly recommend using Mariposa County since it’s the closest county office to Yosemite National Park. The process is simple and quick. Here’s exactly how it works:
- Call the County Clerk’s office in Mariposa County at (209)-966-2007 to schedule an appointment. Appointments are required.
- Show up to the appointment together with valid photo I.D. and $60 cash for the license.
- Complete the marriage license application at the clerk’s office. Once it’s processed, you’ll receive your marriage license the same day. It’s valid for 90 days.
- After your ceremony, your officiant will complete the license and return it to Mariposa County for recording.
That’s it! Super easy, right? If you’d like to double-check hours, fees, or current requirements, you can find all the details on the official Mariposa County marriage license page.
Best Time of Year to Elope in Yosemite
Mid-October is the best time of year to elope in Yosemite. Yosemite is open year-round, but the experience can feel completely different depending on when you visit. Below is a breakdown of what to expect in Yosemite throughout the year.
Fall (September-November)
Fall is one of the best times to elope in Yosemite, especially if avoiding crowds is a priority. After Labor Day, visitor numbers drop significantly, making September and October ideal months for an elopement. The weather is cooler and fall colors begin to show in parts of the park. October is one of my favorite months for Yosemite elopements.
By early November, seasonal road closures begin. Glacier Point Road typically closes for the winter, which means popular locations like Taft Point and Glacier Point become inaccessible. If you’re planning a fall elopement, early to mid-October is usually the sweet spot.
Winter (December-March)
Winter is the quietest season in Yosemite and a great option if you want a truly secluded experience. Snow transforms the valley into a winter wonderland, and crowds are minimal compared to the rest of the year. While higher elevation locations like Taft Point and Glacier Point are closed, Yosemite Valley remains open and is an incredible option for snow-covered ceremonies.
Winter elopements do come with limitations. Expect road closures, chain requirements, and fewer accessible locations. If you’re comfortable with winter conditions (and are flexible), this season is great.
Spring (April-May)
Spring is an underrated time to elope in Yosemite. This is when waterfalls are at their peak, thanks to snowmelt from the higher elevations. The park feels quieter than summer, and wildlife activity increases. Late April and May can be especially beautiful in the valley.
That said, many higher elevation roads and trails remain closed through spring, sometimes into early June. Snow, mud, and unpredictable weather are still possible, so flexibility is key if you choose this season.
Summer (June-August)
Summer offers the best weather and full access to Yosemite’s most iconic locations, but it comes at a cost. June through August is peak season, with millions of visitors pouring into the park. Parking fills up early, traffic can be intense, and popular trails and viewpoints are crowded throughout the day.
Even sunrise ceremonies don’t guarantee privacy during the summer months. If having a crowd-free elopement is important to you, summer in Yosemite may feel overwhelming. For couples set on summer, I often recommend considering alternative locations with similar scenery but far fewer people.
Photographer tip: Check out previous road opening and closure dates in Yosemite here!
Where to Stay for Your Yosemite Elopement
For Yosemite elopements, you have two great lodging options: staying inside the park itself or in one of the nearby gateway towns like El Portal, Mariposa, Groveland, or Oakhurst.
The gateway towns offer more flexibility, dining options, and a wide range of Airbnbs and hotels, often at lower prices than inside the park. That said, if staying within Yosemite is part of your dream elopement experience, these are the top in-park lodging options to consider:
- The Ahwahnee – Yosemite’s most iconic hotel and a favorite for elopements. It’s centrally located in Yosemite Valley.
- Yosemite Valley Lodge – A more budget-friendly option inside the park, located near Yosemite Falls. It’s close to many popular ceremony and portrait locations.
- AutoCamp – Luxury Airstreams and cabins. AutoCamp is perfect if you want something fun and photo-worthy, but it books out quickly, so plan well in advance.
Photographer tip: Staying inside the park can save you hours of driving on your elopement day, especially with Yosemite’s traffic and limited parking. If you’re planning a sunrise or sunset ceremony, proximity can make a huge difference.
Important Yosemite Elopement Tips
Yosemite is jaw-droppingly beautiful, but it’s also one of the busiest national parks in the country. Knowing what to expect ahead of time can make or break your experience.
1. Yosemite is extremely crowded
Yosemite is wildly popular for weddings, elopements, and tourism in general. On any given day, there can be thousands of people in the park and multiple couples taking photos at the same iconic spots. If privacy is a top priority for you, Yosemite may feel overwhelming unless you plan very intentionally or choose an off-season date.
2. Traffic and parking require patience
Midday traffic in Yosemite can be intense, especially in Yosemite Valley. Bumper-to-bumper congestion, long delays, and full parking lots are common. It’s not unusual for visitors to wait near parked cars hoping to snag a spot. Sunrise or sunset ceremonies and weekday elopements help significantly.
3. Cell service is limited to nonexistent
Cell service in Yosemite is extremely spotty, and even WiFi at in-park lodging can be unreliable. Download offline maps, save important details ahead of time, and coordinate clearly with your vendors before the big day.
4. Build a flexible timeline
Between traffic, weather, crowds, and wildlife, flexibility is key. Buffer extra time into your timeline.
5. Follow Leave No Trace principles
Yosemite has strict rules to protect the landscape. No arches, chairs (unless medically necessary), confetti, florals left behind, or stepping into restricted areas. A knowledgeable photographer will help you stay compliant while still getting those jaw-dropping shots.
Yosemite Elopement Activities
One of the best parts of eloping in Yosemite is that your wedding day doesn’t have to be just a ceremony, it can be an experience. Here are some fun ideas you can use to build your elopement weekend or wedding day itinerary:
- Have a picnic in El Capitan Meadow
- Watch the climbers at Half Dome, or attempt it yourself if you’re a professional
- Take a selfie at sunrise at Tunnel View
- Tour the Yosemite Museum and Indian Valley
- Take a bike ride along Yosemite’s paved paths
- Visit Ansel Adam’s Gallery
- Snag some pizza at Curry Village Dining Pizza Deck
- Stargaze in the park after dark (Yosemite has incredible night skies)
- Take a guided wildlife or photography tour
- Enjoy a morning coffee at Tenaya Lake
- Share a post-ceremony champagne toast at a scenic pull-off
- Book a couples massage or spa day just outside the park
Yosemite Elopement Packages
I’m Brianna, a California-based elopement photographer specializing in planning intentional, experience-driven elopements across the Pacific Northwest. My Yosemite elopement packages are designed to be fully hands-on, helping you plan, navigate permits, build timelines, and document your day.
To view my elopement packages, click here or take a peek below.
Yosemite Elopement Package Pricing:
- 4 hours – 2 days of elopement coverage anywhere in California
- A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
- Personalized elopement location recommendations
- Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
- Assistance and information to help you with permits, licenses, etc.
- 90+ page elopement planning guide filled with tips and tricks
- Customized elopement timelines
- Optional complimentary officiant services
- Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
- 24-48 hour sneak peeks to share with the world
- Travel fees to anywhere in California are already included
- Starting at $8,000
FAQ
Yes. All weddings and elopements in Yosemite require a special use permit, regardless of group size.
Ceremonies with 11 people or fewer can take place almost anywhere (with restrictions). Larger groups must use designated ceremony locations with set capacity limits.
Sunrise is the best time for privacy and lighting. Sunset is beautiful but significantly more crowded.
Dogs are allowed in developed areas but not on most trails or at many ceremony locations. Yosemite is not a very pet-friendly park for elopements.
No. Yosemite does not allow arches, chairs (unless medically necessary), florals left behind, or décor installations.
Eloping in Yosemite typically costs between $5,000 and $20,000, with a minimum of $245 in required park fees including the wedding permit, marriage license, and entrance fee.
The best places to elope in Yosemite include Taft Point, Glacier Point, Tunnel View, El Capitan Meadow, and Sentinel Dome.
Don’t forget your FREE elopement guide!
An all-in-one planning guide for all things elopements! Whether you’re hoping to hike through the mountains of Washington or sip a margarita on the beaches of California, this comprehensive elopement guide has everything you need to know about how to plan the perfect elopement.
You? You’re the kind of person that gets a lil’ teary eyed looking at an epic view…
That moment when you turn to the person you’re with and ask, “Are you seeing this?” I live for it. Places with trees and mountains and soft breezes that make you say, “I can’t believe this place exists,” I spend pretty much all of my free time searching for and exploring them.
These places have always felt like home to me. And if you’re the kind of person who also feels more at home surrounded by trees than by people? Then we’ll get along really well. The Pacific Northwest is full of secret spots that are too special to share with just anyone. But it would make me happy to share them with you on your wedding day.
If the mountains/beaches/redwood forests are calling your name, go ahead…
(I promise you won’t regret it.)
P.S. I’m Brianna. I’m a Pacific Northwest elopement photographer whose mission is to create custom, one-of-a-kind elopement experiences in the Pacific Northwest that allow couples to fully immerse themselves in the highest levels of excitement and wonder on a day designed exclusively for them.
