Yosemite has more grandeur than any “traditional” wedding venue around. For just $150 bucks, you can get married at one of the most stunning Yosemite wedding locations in the world- surrounded by granite cliffs, waterfalls, and golden light.

I’m a Sierra Nevada local and grew up right outside Yosemite National Park. I love sharing all Yosemite has to offer with my couples.

This guide covers only locations inside Yosemite National Park-  not nearby towns or venues outside the park boundaries. Everything listed here is in Yosemite park boundaries.

What can be confusing is that there are actually three different ways to book a ceremony location in Yosemite:

• Through the National Park Service — by obtaining a special use permit ($150).
• Through Yosemite Concessions — like The Ahwahnee Hotel and other park venues.
• Through Yosemite Chapel — if you’re planning to have your ceremony inside the chapel itself.

Yosemite Wedding Locations Booked through the National Park

Most couples getting married in Yosemite go through the National Park Service-it’s simple, affordable, and gives you access to some truly breathtaking ceremony spots.

Here’s something a lot of people don’t realize: some of the best Yosemite wedding locations aren’t even on the official list. If you have 11 guests or less, you can actually say your vows in almost any location in the park, with a few exceptions.

To get your special use permit, follow this link to download the application. The park is old-school, and the application has to be physically mailed with a $150 check. It cannot be submitted online.  If you’re out of the country, please don’t worry- I mail applications for my couples all the time.

Take a look here for the complete list of rules and regulations for NPS ceremony locations.

If you have any questions, you can contact Cat via this contact form, or via phone: +1 (209) 379-1858. Or you can just ask me.

Below are the official Yosemite wedding locations managed by the National Park Service. Each one requires a $150 Special Use Permit. They are divided into:

• Valley Locations
• Wawona & Glacier Point Locations
• Tuolumne Meaows Locations
• Big Oak Flat Locations

Yosemite Valley Wedding Locations

These locations are in the heart of the valley, nearby many amenities. While Yosemite itself is expansive, the valley floor is the most popular, spanning 7.5 miles in length and one mile wide. It’s a narrow stretch of some of the most stunning views in the world, and what most people think of when they think “Yosemite.”

Cathedral Beach Picnic Area- Serene Yosemite Wedding Location

Cathedral Beach has long been a favorite of mine. With a broad stretch of pebbled shore and a stunning view in both directions, it’s one of the most iconic Yosemite wedding locations for couples who want that classic El Capitan backdrop.

Cathedral Beach gets bonus points for parking. You can drive so close, and there’s plenty of parking. Because this location is down a very short road, it feels private and isolated (but it’s not a secret). According to the national park website, there are only 6 parking spaces, but I disagree. You can fit several here, especially utilizing the sides of the road. I’d say 10-15 if your guests park strategically. There’s a pit toilet, BBQ pits, and 5-6 picnic tables. 

This space makes for the perfect combo of beautiful ceremony location (the beach) and cozy, secluded reception/brunch location among the pines. 

Here’s a couple that made beautiful use of the pines as a reception brunch location.

Sentinel Beach Picnic Area

The best thing about Sentinel Beach is that you can see Yosemite Falls from across the Merced river! It’s such a great view with the bonus of having a semi secluded location to say your vows. As far as valley locations go, this one is #2 on my list. 

While it would be beautiful any time of year, keep in mind that in early spring it can flood. And in late fall the Yosemite falls turns to a trickle and isn’t as grand. If you’re looking for a gushing water fall, I recommend early June.

Sentinel Beach gets points for being off the main road. This cozy riverside spot offers one of the more peaceful wedding locations in Yosemite Valley, especially beautiful during fall when the oaks turn golden. Similar to Cathedral, you drive down a short dirt road, which makes it feel very separate and secluded. There are restrooms and picnic tables.

Swinging Bridge Picnic Area- Big Yosemite Wedding Location Views

With its wide-open views and dramatic scenery, Swinging Bridge is among the best Yosemite wedding locations for couples who love grand landscapes- though it’s also one of the busier areas.

This is another wedding location that wins points for it’s incredible, wide open view. I love the stretch of beach here for its backdrop of aspens and granite. This location gets all the points as a scene setter. If you hosted your ceremony early in the morning, it would likely be a very lovely experience. Where I start to worry about this location is that it is a popular stop. There’s a big parking lot (which seems to fill up quickly) and lots of people take the short walk over Swinging Bridge to take it all in. This may not be a big deal, since you’re below, on the beach. But, you’ll likely have a lot more “unofficial guests” than you planned for- aka- onlookers from the bridge. 

This location has restrooms, picnic tables and BBQ pits shaded in the trees.

An added bonus to this location, it’s in walking distance (and in view of) a spectacular meadow and lower Yosemite Falls. It makes it super easy to photograph two locations that look strikingly different.

Bridalveil Falls- Most Underrated Yosemite Wedding Location

Bridalveil Falls might just be the most underrated of all Yosemite wedding locations, offering a fairytale forest feel and a view of the falls that few couples take advantage of.

This area of Yosemite was recently renovated, and I have to say I am impressed. Walking the loop of Bridalveil Falls feels like you’re in a park within a park. The paved pathways are lovely, surrounded by dog woods and pines.

In the newer part of the loop, wooden boardwalks weave through the forest, before reaching the falls. On the older, paved part of the loop you cross rustic stone bridges across three creeks. They are incredibly picturesque, low to the ground, and perfect for photos.

To be honest, I think this may be one of the most underrated “official“ ceremony locations. The actual ceremony spot is a clearing in the forest, complete with a stone platform for a couple to stand. One negative, it’s right off the path, so anyone could walk through in the middle of your ceremony. This is a good reason to plan your ceremony for sunrise. As a photographer, I also believe it would photograph best at sunrise, with the sun rising behind the falls.

The NPS says you can fit 50 people here and I think that’s way too many. Yes, they could spread out in either direction along the path, but really, this location is better suited for a small group. I think 20 people would be tight. 

There is a new, huge parking lot and new bathrooms. If you’re hosting a reception/brunch within the park, you’d need to drive to another location. The good news- Cathedral, Sentinel and Swinging Bridge picnic areas are 5 minutes down the road.

Lower Yosemite Falls

The biggest perk of Lower Yosemite Falls location is that it is easily accessible, and ADA compliant. It is a few hundred feet away from Yosemite Lodge. The entire path is paved. And while it is literally on the way to lower Yosemite Falls, the name is misleading. You may hear the roar of the falls (season dependent), and sometimes you may even feel a light spray, but you are not “really”  in view of Yosemite Falls.

But sometimes you just need a ceremony spot that is accessible for everyone in your family, including those who need paved access. This is the spot. There are two rustic benches for seating.  A negative, there is a park placard of some kind dead center of the View. 

This short, easy walk to lower Yosemite Falls is one of the most popular in the park. I would not recommend hosting your ceremony here any time besides sunrise.

Cascades Picnic Area

While the NPS site lists this as “in Yosemite Valley” that may be a little misleading for folks planning a wedding. Yes, it’s technically in the valley, but if you’re imagining “in the valley” as iconic Yosemite valley views, you may be disappointed. Cascades Picnic Area is super convenient because it has bathrooms, a couple picnic tables, lots of parking and the Merced river. But if I’m going to be totally honest, it just lacks those iconic Yosemite vibes. 

It’s an easy, level walk, and you’re basically there as soon as you park the car. A perk, you’ll have a lot of privacy. The spot is not well known. My favorite features are the storybook gnarled roots of the trees poking through the ground, making a labyrinth maze. You’re also right next to the river, which is always a benefit. If you’re bringing a picnic, there’s a picnic table waiting for you. While it’s listed as in the valley, it’s not in the valley the way most people consider. It’s actually on the way out of the valley towards El portal.

Region: Glacier Point & Wawona Locations:

Glacier Point and Wawona are grouped together because they’re “on top” of the park. But they’re actually not super close to each other, about an hour drive. Glacier Point is well known for it’s big views of Half Dome. It’s also on a Glacier Point Road, which closes seasonally. You can check historical opening and closing dates here. And check current road closures here. While Wawona is accessible nearly all year long from the parks Highway 41 entrance. Glacier Point has big granite views. Wawona is wooded and grassy, with a few sprawling meadows and a golf course.

Glacier Point Amphitheater

Glacier Point Amphitheater is one of the most famous Yosemite National Park wedding locations, and for good reason. The view of Half Dome and Nevada Falls is unbeatable.

I don’t like to throw the word “epic” around a lot, but this wedding location simply deserves it. A short walk from the parking lot you’re greeted with a view of towering Half Dome, and the gushing Nevada falls. Not to mention, all the grandeur of glacially carved granite and the dreamiest sunrises. Ok, all photographer fan-girling aside, this place has amenities! And by that I mean stadium seating built in. You’re technically  not allowed to set up chairs for a ceremony, so a wedding location that comes with seating included is a huge bonus. (Also, I say technically because if your grandma is coming and she needs a camp chair, who says no to that?)

This location is truly a bucket list stop for you and all your guests. One of my last brides told me her mom literally cried when she saw it and said, “I just really appreciate a good view.” I love moms. 

There are bathrooms in the parking lot, but I’m not gonna lie, they can be some of the grossest in the park. But, the view makes up for it…? Because the amphitheater is so well paved and formatted, many people find it extra easy to wagon out some pastries and coffee and enjoy their sunrise ceremony with refreshments.

Chilnualna Falls Trailhead Parking Lot

Aw, the mysterious dirt patch in Wawona! Ok, ok, I’m sorry, I just don’t know how this one made the list? I suppose if you’re renting the Redwoods in Yosemite (a concessions wedding location in Yosemite, see below) this is a possibility. It was in the running as a ceremony location at a Redwoods in Yosemite wedding I photographed, but they ended up choosing a river location that was a part of concessions. I’m probably being a Yosemite snob right now, there’s nothing to be mad about when you’re standing among towering pines and cedars, just know that you’re walking distance from vacation rentals.

Region: Tuolumne Meadows Locations

Tuolumne Meadow is one of the most serene Yosemite wedding locations and is incredibly underrated. I often imagine it as how Yosemite was “way back when.” When late spring rolls around the expanse of rolling domes surrounded by wide open meadows is enchanting.  I have long wanted to photograph an elopement atop Pothole Dome, although Lembert Dome seems to be the more popular one. If you want to geek out on all the domes (Half Dome was just a boring “full” dome once haha), take a look at this list.

The road to Tuolumne Meadows closes seasonally. You can check historical opening and closing dates here. And check current road closures here.

Tuolumne meadows in fall. It’s important to note that the “official” ceremony site is located near the Tuolumne river and looks a lot less “meadow.”

Tuolumne Meadows Lodge- Dana Fork Slab

If you’re dreaming of wide-open alpine views without the crowds of Yosemite Valley, Dana Fork Slab might be your spot. Just behind Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, this hidden gem sits along the Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River-  and the granite slab makes the perfect natural “altar.”

What I love about this location is how peaceful it feels. Parking is easy at the Lodge, and the short walk to the slab keeps logistics simple even at 8,600 feet.

Ceremonies here are best for small groups (the NPS lists capacity at 25), and because it’s open meadow terrain, it’s especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Just know that Tioga Road usually opens late spring and closes sometime in October depending on snowfall, so this is a true summer-only Yosemite wedding location.

Tenaya Lake Beach

Somebody please let me photograph your Yosemite wedding here! I’ve long thought the Tuolumne Meadows side of Yosemite gets way too little credit. If you love an easily accessible, high-alpine lake with placid, sparkling water, get married here! This site is located on the east end of Tenaya Lake Beach Picnic Area.

According to the National Park Service, this location can hold up to 50 people. It’s open from the time the road opens until September 30th. Here’s my insider tip — Highway 120, the road to this lake and Tuolumne Meadows, often stays open through October and sometimes even into November. I think a fall elopement would be absolutely lovely here, and I’ll help you with the permit.

Tuolumne Meadows Region Bonus:

When you’re in this portion of Yosemite, you’re on highway 120 which leads to Tioga Pass. Seriously, driving this pass is worth it. It’s incredible, it takes 20 minutes from the park entrance/exit and when you’re at the bottom you can visit the charming town of Lee Vining (where my favorite frosty and favorite coffee shop live)  And if it’s fall, you’ll be treated to a forest of changing aspens as you descend into the canyon. You will not regret this little bonus trip!

Region: Big Oak Flat Locations- AKA the big trees

Pack your hiking boots, both of these Yosemite wedding locations require a hike. While I’m a forever fan of giant sequoias, it’s worth noting that to protect their fragile root systems, all ceremonies must take place on the foot path. (Which means you can’t get super close).

Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias

If you want to feel tiny in the best possible way, Merced Grove is for you. This peaceful trail leads to a small stand of giant sequoias. It’s the first grove you’ll reach when entering Yosemite from the west. It’s quieter and less visited than the more famous Mariposa Grove.

The hike is about 3 miles round-trip on a trail that gently descends into the grove. You’ll exchange vows surrounded by trees that have been here for over a thousand years- talk about perspective. Something important to note about this grove is that, while the trees themselves are BIG, the grove is small. 

Because the park protects sequoia root systems, all ceremonies must take place on the trail rather than directly beneath the trees.

Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias

Tuolumne Grove offers a similar experience to Merced but with a slightly different vibe. There are fewer crowds than Mariposa Grove, and a wider, more open feel. The hike is about 2.5 miles round trip, winding through pine forest before opening up to about two dozen towering sequoias.

The grove’s centerpiece is the famous fallen sequoia you can actually walk through. It’s an iconic photo spot if you don’t mind a little tourist attention. But for ceremonies, I recommend a quieter stretch of trail nearby where you can exchange vows surrounded by forest stillness.

This location is best for small weddings with guests who are comfortable with a bit of walking (and the uphill return). If you’re dreaming of that redwood-cathedral feeling without the crowds, Tuolumne Grove delivers.

Yosemite Concessions

The national park contracts out its hospitality, so while you’re staying/eating/marrying in the national park, you’re booking it through concessions. Currently, concessions are offered through TravelYosemite.com. While each place has it’s perks, it’s important to note that all catering is done through the park, and they have a list of additional approved vendors. 
To inquire about any of the following concessions locations, take a look here (their site is brief), and then submit your “request for proposal” (RFP) here. It doesn’t look wedding specific, but you’ll see “wedding” as an option in the dropdown menu. To note, in addition to booking the concessions, you’ll still need to pay the $150 NPS permit fee.

Here are the most popular concessions locations for weddings:

The Ahwahnee Hotel- Iconic Yosemite Wedding Venue

The Ahwahnee is the crowning jewel of Yosemite hospitality. Every time I visit, I feel like I’ve stepped back in time. I can just imagine early park visitors arriving after a thrilling drive down the mountain, ready to take in the grandeur of Yosemite Valley.

Fun fact: The Ahwahnee actually inspired the setting for The Shining! And when you step into its grand, open foyers, you’ll definitely feel those cinematic vibes.

Ahwahnee Formal Dining Room, and Awahnee Foyer

Reception Locations:

For couples planning a Yosemite wedding, The Ahwahnee offers a blend of elegance and adventure that’s hard to beat. The hotel features an incredible, stately formal dining room, but most wedding receptions take place in one of the other reception spaces. These options include the Mural Room, The Winter Room, and the Solarium. You can see each room here and here. I’ve also photographed receptions held outside on the terrace, where guests can dine beneath the cliffs and watch the light shift across the valley walls.

Ahwahnee Suite

Ahwahnee Cottage

Ceremony Location

Wedding ceremonies are typically held on The Ahwahnee’s back lawn, which offers a breathtaking view of Yosemite Falls. Because of that stunning backdrop, most couples choose to host their Yosemite wedding here in the spring, when the falls are at their fullest and the surrounding meadow glows with new life.

Ahwahnee Lodging- Main Hotel & Cottages

I’m all for roughing it, but a wedding at The Ahwahnee is pure ease. You get the best of both worlds: the wilderness of Yosemite National Park and the comfort of world-class hospitality. Couples can stay in the main hotel (where special suites are often reserved for newlyweds and bridal prep) or in one of the cozy cabins just a short, tree-lined walk from the lodge.

And one of my favorite Ahwahnee wedding tradition? The Merced River runs right outside the door, making it the perfect spot for a cold water pre-wedding prep plunge.

To book the Ahwahnee for a wedding ceremony, submit your “request for proposal” here.

Yosemite Lodge & The Mountain Room

Located right near the base of Yosemite Falls, the Yosemite Lodge gives your guests easy access to all the classic Yosemite landmarks- and it’s one of the most convenient options for couples hosting a larger group.

Couples using this location for lodging and reception usually have their ceremony offsite. 

However, when it’s time to celebrate, The Mountain Room offers a beautiful reception experience within the park. The space features floor-to-ceiling windows that look directly out at Yosemite Falls- so even as you sit down to dinner, you’re still surrounded by the beauty of the valley. The lodge’s in-house catering team is experienced in hosting weddings, offering curated menus that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Curry Village

For couples who love a laid-back camp vibes Curry Village offers a charming, rustic Yosemite wedding experience. Nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley, this location combines classic park scenery with convenient amenities and cozy lodging options for your guests.

Most couples use Curry village for the amenities- it’s a great prep, first look and reception location. But usually, they use on the national park locations for their ceremony. Curry village has a pizza place, a taqueria, coffee shop and ice skating in winter.

Guests can stay right on-site in canvas tent cabin or actual cabins, making it easy to host a multi-day celebration. The lodging options give everyone a real sense of being immersed in the park while keeping comfort and convenience in mind.

For receptions, Curry Village offers both indoor and outdoor options. You can rent one of the lodge’s event spaces for a seated dinner or cocktail-style reception, or take advantage of the outdoor patios for a relaxed, scenic celebration. Think twinkle lights strung between trees, intimate tables, and your closest friends and family gathered under the stars. Curry Village is perfect for couples who want a low-key, cozy Yosemite wedding that feels authentic to the park.

The Wawona Hotel

I remember the first time I drove by the Wawona Hotel, it was so completely unexpected. If you love history, places with character and Victorian architecture, it exists in Yosemite! 

Nestled in the southern section of Yosemite National Park, this historic Victorian-style lodge feels like stepping back into a simpler, slower-paced era. For some reason it makes me think of the Titanic. It’s so historic that not all the rooms have bathrooms (many do)! But no worries, there’s a bath house.

The wraparound porches, white clapboard walls, and green lawn set the perfect scene for a relaxed yet elegant wedding day. Ceremonies are offered on the lawn, however most of my couples opt to have their ceremony at one of the National Park locations listed above. Then they return here for a catered reception. 

Inside, the Wawona Hotel features a small sunroom that’s perfect for intimate receptions or micro weddings because it’s not a giant reception space.  With its wall-to-wall windows, the space fills with golden light, giving your celebration an airy, open feel while still keeping things cozy and private.

For couples who love that old-world charm paired with the serenity of Yosemite, the Wawona Hotel delivers both.

The Redwoods In Yosemite

Not to be confused with the actual giant sequoia groves, this is the name of a venue located near the highway 41 entrance to Yosemite, inside the park. 

The Redwoods is made up of privately owned cabins for rent and an event space with indoor and outdoor options. It’s hard to beat the convenience of walking from your cozy cabin straight to your ceremony.

One of the cabin rentals comes with an unofficial ceremony space right next to the river. So if you want the convenience of having your wedding all in one place, this is it. (I always recommend sneaking away for couple’s photos in the park a couple days before for couples keeping it all in one spot). 

The on-site reception venue features a warm indoor space with an adjoining outdoor patio, making it easy to transition from dinner to dancing under the stars. The patio isn’t huge, so it’s perfect for a smaller gathering. Whether you’re hosting a micro wedding or something larger, this Yosemite wedding venue lets you celebrate with all your favorite people in one place. This is the only concessions venue on the list where you inquire here. I believe it’s separate because it’s located in a part of Yosemite that is privately owned.

Yosemite Wedding Chapel

The historic Yosemite Chapel is the only indoor ceremony site on this list of Yosemite wedding locations. Its perfect for couples craving tradition within the park’s timeless setting.

If you want to host your wedding ceremony indoors, the historic Yosemite Chapel may be right for you. It’s incredibly picturesque and quaint. It makes me feel very nostalgic. The downside, I’ve heard from my couples that the chapel is notoriously difficult to secure, simply because of slow communication. Some have given up on it altogether. I’ve photographed a wedding here, so I know it’s possible. But I think it takes patience and some follow up. All the details for booking the chapel can be found here. Please be aware you’re headed to a very dated website. But rest assured, this is the place to book it. The chapel rental fee is $1200. Also required is the special use permit fee, $150.

You can hire the Yosemite Community Church’s minister or bring your own officiant. To book the chapel, contact them here: +1 (209) 372-4831

Secret Spots for 11 People or Less

I see you there with your small guest list looking for something awesome and not listed above. Did I mention I love hearing from people just like you? Yes, let’s choose a location off the list and create something special. I’m going to share the most obvious ones here, but you’ll have to chat with me if you want me to really spill the beans.

Taft Point

If you’re looking for a dramatic, awe-inspiring location for 11 guests or fewer, Taft Point is hard to beat. Perched high above Yosemite Valley, this spot offers sweeping views of El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the valley floor below. It’s a jaw-dropping backdrop for your vows.

Taft Point is perfect for couples who want a sense of adventure on their wedding day. The short hike to the viewpoint is manageable, but the payoff is massive: sheer cliffs and unobstructed views. But be forewarned, this location is popular and lots of folks take the short walk to take in the sunset. 

The light is phenomenal for photos. Golden hour here is pure magic, with long shadows and rich, warm tones that make every moment feel cinematic.

Taft Point is ideal for couples who want their elopement to feel epic but intimate. It’s adventurous enough to feel like a mini expedition. Yet, serene enough that your focus stays on your vows, and the incredible natural beauty around you.

Washburn Point

Just a short drive from Glacier Point, Washburn Point offers dramatic, wide-open views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley. But with way less people. It’s the perfect place for couples who want big vistas and a small, private gathering. Important note- your ceremony will likely happen from a sidewalk with a great view.

Alternatively, a short walk from Glacier Point parking lot is a fantastic view of Half Dome. But it is a little close to the road. There’s plenty of room for a small group to stand.

Tunnel View

Tunnel View is Yosemite’s most famous vista. But here’s the secret: if you have your ceremony at sunrise, you can have it almost entirely to yourselves. The sweeping view of El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and Half Dome are a postcard perfect. It makes a ceremony feel instantly storybook romantic.

Mirror Lake

For couples who crave a peaceful location, Mirror Lake is a dream. The still water perfectly reflects Half Dome and the surrounding granite cliffs, creating a natural mirror for your ceremony. (The best time to see the reflection is late afternoon). As an added bonus, there’s a road right to it for folks with ADA placards. Otherwise, it’s an easy 1 mile walk on the road. A super important note: Mirror Lake is naturally evolving into a meadow. Which means by late summer, most of the lake is gone. (But of course returns after winter).

Olmstead Point

This spot is SO GOOD I hesitate to even share it. But I can’t help myself, this is such a dreamy location for a wedding ceremony. There is an abundance of granite, making for a natural cathedral. And the view to the backside of Half Dome at sunset is so whimsical. I love this spot. There’s so much room to spread out, that privacy is not hard to find. And with a giant parking lot, parking is never an issue. Is right down the road from Tenaya Lake, so combining the two would be a perfect combo.

So you want the real Yosemite secrets? The spots no one tells the tourists about? I’ll spill the beans… hit that contact button.

No matter which of these Yosemite wedding locations you choose, you’ll be surrounded by incredible views and unforgettable beauty. Whether you’re planning a sunrise elopement or an intimate ceremony with guests, Yosemite is one of the most magical places to get married in California.