Why Choose Mammoth Lakes for Your Wedding

If there’s one thing that makes a Mammoth Lakes wedding unique, it’s the incredible variety packed into such a small stretch of land. In ten minutes, you can go from alpine lakes surrounded by snow-dusted peaks to wandering through high desert sagebrush and natural hot springs. 

Imagine saying your vows surrounded by rugged Sierra peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and a mountain town that matches your sense of adventure. A Mammoth Lakes wedding delivers all of that and more.

Whether you’re dreaming of a small elopement or a larger mountain celebration, this guide walks you through every step. Why choose Mammoth Lakes, the easiest (and some more adventurous) locations, permit requirements, venues, vendors, activities, and sample itineraries. As a Sierra Nevada based wedding photographer, I’ve helped countless couples bring these dreams to life. I’d love to help you too

Mammoth Lakes is the kind of place that meets you exactly where you are. It can be wild and rugged, with hikes that lead to mountaintop views on the edge of the world. Or it can be slow and cozy. A day that ends with beers at Mammoth Brewing Company and a campfire under the stars.

Here, your wedding can be whatever you want it to be: an all-day adventure or a laid-back celebration surrounded by nature’s beauty. There’s no right or wrong way to do it.  Whether you’re envisioning an intimate elopement or a celebration with your closest people, a Mammoth Lakes wedding gives you the best of the Sierras in one wildly beautiful place.

A Landscape Unlike Anywhere on Earth- Literally

One of the reasons a Mammoth Lakes wedding feels so unforgettable is because this landscape isn’t just beautiful, it’s rare. Sitting along the rim of the second largest volcanic caldera in North America, Mammoth holds geological features you won’t find together anywhere else. Think ancient lava flows, natural hot springs, deep fissures, and cliffs made of perfectly geometric basalt columns.

And the diversity? Unreal. In just a few miles you can wander from old-growth forests to sagebrush desert. From bright white quartz outcroppings to glossy black obsidian fields created by ancient eruptions. And when this becomes the backdrop for your wedding? It’s pure magic.

A Season for every Kind of Wedding

One of the best things about a Mammoth Lakes wedding is that there’s options in every season.  You just get to choose what kind of adventure you want!

Mammoth is a Place that Feels like “YOU”

What I love so much about Mammoth is that your experience can be as adventurous or as laid back as you want it. It’s incredibly dog friendly, there’s countless trails and forest service roads to explore. Great food is easy to find. Cozy cabins to luxury accommodations  are available for rent. And there’s no shortage of things to do (there’s literally a roller coaster). There’s options for those of us who like to hide out in the forest, or those of us who want to explore every bit of it.

Winter: Snow-Covered Peaks and Cozy Fires

Winter in Mammoth is straight out of a snow globe. The mountains transform into a sparkling white wonderland.  Imagine saying your vows surrounded by snow-dusted pines or taking portraits with the Sierras glowing pink at sunset. Afterward, cozy up by a lodge fireplace anbd sip something warm. Whether you’re skiing down the mountain in your wedding gear (yes, it’s been done!) Or soaking in a hot spring as the snow falls, a Mammoth Lakes wedding in winter is nothing short of magical.

Spring: Mammoth’s Slowest Season

Mammoth likes to sleep late. She’s slow to come out of her winter hibernation and you won’t see any wildflowers until summer. Many of our favorite trails and roads will still be under snow (likely until late June). But the good news, it’s shoulder season here and a great time to visit. If you’re ok chilling near town or at your cabin, you’ll love Mammoth this time of year. Mammoth Mountain is usually open late into spring, so you can even grab a few runs on your wedding day! One of the best bonuses of spring in Mammoth is you’ll be sure to catch snow capped mountains.

Summer: Lakes, Meadows, and Golden Light

Summer in Mammoth is pure sunshine and adventure. The alpine lakes have melted into shades of turquoise, wildflowers paint the meadows, and every trail feels like an invitation. This is the season for paddleboarding, picnicking by the water, and barefoot ceremonies at sunset. It’s warm enough to celebrate outdoors well into the evening. This is a great time of year to make your campground your reception venue.

Fall: Pleasant Temps and Golden Aspens

If golden light had a season, this would be it. Fall in Mammoth is calm and romantic, with mild temps and aspen groves bursting into fiery yellows and oranges. Picture exchanging vows in a grove of “quaking” aspens. They even smell amazing!  Fall is my favorite season in the Eastern Sierras!

Best Season for a Mammoth Lake’s Wedding

Mammoth Lakes can accommodate you all year long, but my favorites are late Summer, Fall, and early Winter. Here’s why: 

• Late summer: by now our favorite trails and forest service roads are open. We can probably catch some wildflowers. And hopefully, we still have snow-capped mountains. 
• Fall: my most favorite season! Usually the weather is comfortable and inviting. The leaves are nothing short of enchanting and so fun to explore. The fall light is the absolute best for photographs. 
• Early Winter: if you want those whimsical winter photos, you can have them as soon as mid November! I usually try to photograph winter early, so the snow isn’t so deep it’s impossible to walk in. But, if we’re planning a snowmobile adventure, or you want to a ride down the mountain, the more snow the better.

Public Lands Wedding Locations Near Mammoth Lakes

When you choose the wild landscapes of the Eastern Sierras for your wedding, you’re choosing something adventure-driven and beautifully simple. Public lands locations around Mammoth give you access to incredible views and  practically free ceremony sites.

What are Public Lands?

Public lands in this region are managed by the U.S. Forest Service (Inyo National Forest) or Bureau of Land Management. These spots allow you to get married outdoors practically for free.

Why go this route? Because this is a place you already love. It’s one that you’ve probably made lots of memories in.  Think lakes, mountain ridges, hot springs, aspens, sagebrush… all in one place. And, for 75 people or less, there is no fee. Heads-up: Some public lands require permits, only have seasonal access, and require a little more flexibility than a traditional venue.  But the payoff of being in “your spot,” it’s absolutely worth it.

My favorite Public Lands for Weddings Near Mammoth Lakes

These aren’t wedding venues, they’re incredible public spots to have your ceremony. Here are some of your best bets (and yes, I’ll help you navigate the logistics). You can check these out in more detail at my Mammoth Lakes Location Guide.

• Hot Creek Geological Site– Wild steam rising from the earth + snow-capped peaks behind. Sunrise here = cinematic. Public Lands perfection.
• Minaret Vista– Drive-right-to-it mountain peaks, rugged yet simple. Ideal if you want access + view.
• Deadman Pass– A bit off-the-beaten-path. Dirt road, solitude, the kind of place your adventure rig earns its keep.
• Convict Lake– Alpine lake, dramatic cliffs, easy-ish access for guests. Views that can’t be beat. (The Lake is free to use, the resort is not. I don’t recommend a weekend in summer as there will likely a be couple from the resort).
• Sotcher Lake– Quiet alpine gem, tucked behind ridges. Fewer crowds, crystal-clear water, ideal for intimate vows. Best when the shuttle is not required. Beautiful colors in fall.
• Kerry’s Meadow-(via Sherwin Meadows Trailhead) — Lush meadow fringed by ridgelines, short & sweet access from town. Peaceful mountain-meadow ceremony ground.
• Sherwin Trail View– A blink-and-you’re-there walk from the trailhead to aspens and mountain views. Quick, simple, in-town access.
• Obsidian Dome– A surreal landscape of black volcanic glass that feels like standing in the ruins of a cathedral made of “dragon glass.” Short hike, 2WD-friendly road.
• McGee Creek Trailhead– Quiet, wide-open mountain views after just a short walk. Stunning alpenglow at sunset. Dreamy for a private summer or fall ceremony.
• Mack Lake -(via Gem Lakes Trailhead) An easy, accessible alpine lake reached by a short, mellow trail. Perfect if you want “mountains without the miles.
• June Lake– Alpine lake in view of dramatic peaks, and right in town. Next door to Oh Ridge campground and possibly your reception location.

Permit Process & Rules (Public Lands)

When Is a Permit Required?

Per the Inyo NF site, a wedding is considered a “non-commercial group use event.” If your party is 75 people or less, no permit is required. If your party is more than 75 people, you must apply for a “non-commercial group use special use permit.”

Where to get your Special Use Permit

Remember, a permit is NOT required for a wedding of 75 people or less. If you do require a permit:

• Download the application form here.
• Submit it via email here: SM.FS.InyoSpecUses@usda.gov

Logistics to Keep in Mind

• The minimum lead time to submit your application is 72 hours. However the Inyo FS requests at least 2 weeks notice. (Again, your wedding doesn’t require a permit for 75 people or less).
• The general public is always allowed when your wedding is on Forest Service land. That being said, everyone is always very respectful. 
• Many of our favorite roads and hikes are seasonal.
• If we pack it in, we pack it out.

How I Help with Public Lands Weddings

Because your experience matters just as much as your photos, here’s how I support you:

• I know the terrain, the permit rules, the timing for best light & access.
  
• I help narrow down the right location for you: vibe? ease? adventure level? guest list?
  
• I coordinate logistics alongside you: when to hit the trail, when to say vows, when to grab that celebratory beer.
  
• I support the experience: back-up plan, weather check, hand warmers, firewood..

If public lands feel a bit too rugged for your group, or if you want the comfort of restrooms, shelter, and a defined reception space- Mammoth also has beautiful private venues that balance mountain views with modern convenience.

Private Event Venues in Mammoth Lakes

Sometimes, the easiest way to host your Mammoth Lakes wedding is to rent a private space. Venues offer built-in amenities like restrooms, power and shelter. A small venue doesn’t mean you lose the mountain vibes, it just gives you a comfortable basecamp for celebrating with the people you love most. Think cozy cabins tucked in the forest, lakeside lodges, and mountain-view patios.

Convict Lake Resort

Convict Lake Resort is one of my all-time faves. You can have both jaw-dropping mountain views and dinner service without ever leaving the property. The resort is a 30 second drive from the lake. After getting ready in the picturesque cabins, you can hop in the car for an incredible ceremony view. And then return for dinner.

There’s an on-site restaurant, a seasonal reception space,  and cozy cabin lodging just steps away. It’s ideal for micro weddings or weekend-long celebrations. Plus, the lake itself is perfect for morning paddle boarding or sunset portraits.

You can view their pricing guide here.

The Forest Chapel

This hidden corner of Twin Lakes is the perfect spot for a micro wedding. Tucked away, on a far edge of the lake, there’s a ceremony spot that is the perfect compliment to the scenery. With a stone platform, and rustic wooden altar, it’s the perfect forest setting. As an added benefit, seating comes with this spot, in the form of rustic log benches. 

If you’re looking for an outdoor location, but don’t want to fuss with seating or decorating this spot is perfect. It’s also right next to Tamarack Lodge, so there’s restrooms and parking. This location is booked via Mammoth Mountain.

The Forest Chapel is a lovely ceremony spot, and it pairs perfectly with Camp High Sierra for a reception space.

Camp High Sierra

I love this place as a reception venue. It’s nostalgic and has all the sumer camp vibes. And it’s the perfect reception location following a Forest Chapel at Twin Lakes Ceremony. It’s not huge (it can accommodate 80, which makes it sound bigger than it is). It has an impressive stone fireplace and major cabin vibes. It’s only available September and October (the best wedding months in Mammoth). If your guests are the camping or RV-ing type, they can camp just a few steps from your reception venue! This venue is booked via Mammoth Mountain.

The Westin Monache

Looking for a more elevated mountain-town vibe? The Westin Monache offers a modern take on a Mammoth wedding. It has views of the surrounding Sierra peaks and luxury accommodations for you and your guests.

Ceremonies here happen on the pool deck, with the receptions in one of the “special function rooms.” All food and beverage is handled by the venue.  It’s located right in The Village, so you’ll have easy access to restaurants, shopping, and the gondola. To inquire, visit their “events” page here.

The Mill Cafe & Sundeck

If you want a laid-back, woodsy Mammoth Lakes wedding, The Mill Café & Sundeck is a great option. Tucked at the base of Mammoth Mountain near Chair 2, it has that forest vibe without requiring a gondola ride or high-altitude endurance from your guests.

Ceremonies happen on the outdoor sundeck, surrounded by trees and mountain views. Receptions can move indoors to the cozy lodge style café or stay outside for a casual, sunlit celebration. It’s perfect for micro-weddings and is available year round. This location is booked via Mammoth Mountain.

Mammoth Mountain Summit- Top of Mammoth Mountain

If you’re after the wow factor, this is it. The Top of Mammoth Mountain sits just over 11,000 feet elevation, surrounded by jaw-dropping 360° views of the Sierra Nevadas. You’ll take the gondola all the way to the summit, where your ceremony space literally overlooks the world below. This ceremony location is amazingly, open year round! Yay for snowy, winter weddings! It’s hard to imagine a more dramatic place to say your vows. The ceremony space on it’s own rents for $2000 (as of 2025). Request a quote here. Many couples choose to have their reception a little lower on the mountain at Parallax.

McCoy Station

Just below the “top of the mountain” sits McCoy Station. Perched at 9,630 feet, McCoy Station isn’t just a venue- it’s an adventure. You’ll take the gondola up the mountain to this unique wedding space, where the world literally opens up around you. With panoramic views of the Sierra peaks and the valley below, your ceremony will feel like a private mountaintop moment.

This location also has year round capabilities, making for a dreamy, snowscape ceremony. This location is booked via Mammoth Mountain. Request a quote here.

The Hayden Cabin & Museum

Hayden Cabin is actually a museum.  This rustic log cabin sits beside Mammoth Creek and offers a cozy, nostalgic backdrop for weddings. The cabin itself serves as a rustic backdrop, and there’s no interior access.  It’s located near Sierra Meadows ranch, and shares the same amazing view of Mammoth Mountain. It’s on the edge of town and a walkable distance to The Brasserie, a popular reception location and private dining room location. The fee for this location is $3100.

The Brasserie & Ceremony View

Some couple’s may be thrown by this location, because it’s located at Mammoth Rock N’ Bowl. The bottom floor is the bowling alley, and the top floor is The Brasserie. The Brasserie has an incredible view and outdoor seating options. It also has a private dining room. What makes this locations so attractive is that you can also have your ceremony on the back porch. With a view of Mammoth Mountain to your left, and sprawling Sierra Nevada peaks to the right, it’s has all the mountain vibes with very little effort.

Sierra Meadows Ranch

For wide-open views Sierra Meadows Ranch is a dream. Just outside town, this venue sits at the edge of wide meadows with Mammoth Mountain in the distance.

Ceremonies here often take place with the mountain skyline as your backdrop. There’s a Cuban style restaurant on site.  Or a hired caterer can make you a meal under the stars. 

There’s even on-site lodging, so guests can stay right on the property, perfect for a relaxed, multi-day celebration. This location is an incredible value, with the venue fee of approximately $2000. However, there are minimum cabin rentals also required.

Mammoth Brewing Co

If you’re having a public lands ceremony and need a place to host your dinner, this is a great option. Mammoth Brewing Co has a top floor perfect for a catered dinner. You can find info and layouts here.

June Mountain Chalet

A hidden gem just 20 minutes north of Mammoth, June Mountain Chalet offers a more laid-back vibe with equally incredible views. Ride the chairlift up to the chalet for your ceremony and take in the sweeping mountain vistas. It’s quiet, relaxed, and wildly photogenic. It’s perfect for couples who want that “mountain hideaway” feel. 

June Mountain is a part of “Mammoth Resorts” and you can see limited information here. To inquire,  fill out the form here.

Double Eagle Resort (June Lakes)

For those who want something a little more resort-style but still intimate, Double Eagle Resort in nearby June Lake hits the sweet spot. With a spa, cabins, and restaurant all on-site, it’s ideal for couples who want an easy, all-in-one experience.

For a standalone ceremony, the fee starts at $2000. For both ceremony & reception, the fee starts at $5000.

The property sits beside a meadow and creek, making it a gorgeous backdrop for both ceremonies and portraits. This one has been on my list for a long time, I would love to photograph your wedding here!

Why a Private Venue May Be Right for You

If you love the idea of adventuring for your portraits but want your ceremony or dinner to have a few creature comforts, a private venue is the best of both worlds. You’ll have a clear plan (and bathroom access!) without sacrificing the wild beauty of Mammoth. Many couples even split their day: ceremony outdoors on public lands, reception at a private venue. And sometimes when it’s just too much to cram into one day, we create an adventure day just for you. So that on day two, you can enjoy your guests without rushing.

How to get a Marriage License for your Mammoth Lakes Wedding

To make your marriage official, you’ll need a California marriage license.  The good news is that it’s simple, affordable, and doesn’t require you to be a California resident. If you’re planning a Mammoth Lakes wedding or elopement, here’s everything you need to know to make it legal.

Where to Get a Marriage License in Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is located in Mono County, which means you’ll get your license through the Mono County Clerk’s Office:

Mono County Clerk – Mammoth Lakes Branch

437 Old Mammoth Road, Suite P, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Phone: (760) 932-5530

Website: https://www.monocounty.ca.gov/clerk

Appointments are required.

How to Prepare for your Appointment at the County Clerk’s Office

To get your marriage license, both partners must:

• Appear in person
  
• Bring valid, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
  
• Know your full legal names, birthplaces, and parents’ full legal names
  
• Be at least 18 years old

• If either partner was previously married, bring documentation proving dissolution (divorce decree or death certificate).

How Much Does it Cost?

Mono County charges:

• $70 for a Public Marriage License
  
• $85 for a Confidential Marriage License
  

Most couples choose a public license. For “just us” elopements, some couples choose a Confidential Marriage License as it doesn’t require a signature from a witness.

When Should You Get Your Marriage License?

California marriage licenses are valid for 90 days.
This means you should plan to get your license within three months of your wedding.

If you’re traveling to Mammoth:

• Plan to pick up your license 1–2 days before your ceremony, OR
  
• Get your license in your home county and bring it with you. You must return your license to the same office you picked it up from.
  

Important: You must use a California license for your California ceremony.
You can’t use a license from another state.

Who Can Officiate Your Ceremony?

• A friend or family member (after becoming ordained via the Universal Life Church)
• A professional officiant
• A religious officiant
• Me! (I’m a legal California officiant for simple sign-and-seal ceremonies)

After the Ceremony- Don’t Forget the Filing!

Once you’ve said your vows:

1. Your officiant will complete the license.
2. Your witness will sign (only one is required, two are optional).
3. You (or your officiant) must return it to the Mono County Clerk’s Office for recording.

Can you Elope Spontaneously?

Technically yes,  as long as you can get an appointment at the county clerk’s office. Appointments tend to be easily available, especially mid-week. I always recommend booking ahead if you’re coming in from out of town.

Fun & Unique Activities for your Mammoth Lakes Wedding Day

Something that I love so much about “just us” and small weddings is that you have the time to truly enjoy all that Mammoth has to offer. I love incorporating bonding experiences. Those adventurous activities that you will look back on years from now and are like, “Remember when we went snowboarding/fly fishing/ hot spring dipping on our wedding day?!” These activities are perfect additions to any Mammoth Lakes wedding day.

If you want a broad overview of all the natural attractions (lakes, rivers, hot springs, mountain passes), this is my favorite directory.
If you want a list of all the adventure activities on offer in Mammoth, including opening/closing dates, this is a great directory.

All Season Activities

• Hot springs soak, especially enchanting in winter
• Gondola ride at Mammoth Mountain– dog friendly!  (closed briefly for maintenance between Sept & Oct)
• Scenic helicopter tour

Summer & Fall Wedding Day Activities

• Stand-up paddle boarding on Lake Mary or Convict Lake
• Fly-fishing at world renowned, geothermal Hot Creek (try Hot Creek Ranch)
• Scenic off-road 4×4 to Deadman Pass,  Mono Crater or Crowley Columns (Beginner Friendly Here)
• Leaf peeping (fall)  in Lundy Canyon, June Lakes, or Mammoth Creek Road.
• Willy’s Mountain Coaster (a roller coaster through the forest) Summer & Winter Only

Winter & Early Spring Wedding Day Activities

• Ski or snowboard run at  Mammoth Mountain
• Snowmobile tour or rental  into the back-country
• Ice-skating at the Community Rec Center, or Convict Lake
• Snowshoe ceremony among aspens
• Willy’s Mountain Coaster (a roller coaster through the forest) Summer & Winter Only
• Climb up a frozen waterfall, aka ice-climbing, how cool is this?!

Adventure & Chill Combo

• First dance under the stars followed by s’mores and campfire
• Last run at Mammoth Mountain followed by hot spring soak
• Sunrise first look and coffee in the aspens followed by lunch at June Lakes Brewing
• Super easy Horseshoe Lake hike followed by 4wheeling to your private ceremony at sunset

Here’s what a Mammoth Elopement or Micro Wedding could look like

Sample Mammoth Lakes Wedding Timeline

6:30 AM First Look at Hot Creek, blue hour magic	A private first look as the early morning steam rises around you.
6:45 AM Private Vows & Sunrise Portraits	Exchange letters or vows while in the quiet of sunrise.
7:30 AM Coffee, Pastries & Dog Snuggles	Relax on the tailgate with pastries from Looney Bean, hot coffee, and your pups.
10:00 AM  Scenic Helicopter Tour (or other adventure activity)	Also consider: A Scenic hike, The Panorama Gondola, Matching tattoos or a 4×4 adventure
1:00 PM Midday Break	Head back to your cabin for a nap. Or to Burgers for lunch.
3:00 PM Aspen Grove Leaf Peeping & Portraits	Soft sunlight filtering through the aspens. Sometimes couples exchange gifts during this time.
4:00 PM Family joins for group photos	Your favorite people join for group portraits in the aspens.
5:00 PM Ceremony overlooking the Lake	A simple but beautiful ceremony with an incredible view. Followed by celebratory champagne pop.
5:45  PM Golden Hour Portraits	The most magical time of day, and you’ll be feeling all the feels.
6:30 PM Campfire Dinner & Dessert	Think fire light, campground picnic tables (with optional linens) and yummy food. End the meal with s’mores or a sweet heart cake.
7:30 PM First Dance, Star Photos	And the making of my favorite gif- the campfire gif.
9:00 PM Romantic Nighttime Soak	Take your adventure rig down that dirt road and soak in a steamy hot spring by the light of the moon.

Your Day, Your Way

It’s important to remember that with a “just us” or small guest list wedding, you have so much more flexibility in your day. We can prioritize what means the most to you!  My best advice is to imagine what you want your day to feel like. Do you want it to feel fast paced and adventurous? Or slow with lots of moments to linger? A mix of both. I would love to craft a timeline just for you. 

Once you can picture your day, the next step is assembling the right team to bring it to life.

The Best Vendors for your Mammoth Lakes Wedding

Photographer & Videographer: Love Wildly

We’re obsessed with the Eastern Sierras. We love the landscape, the light, the mountain peaks and we’ve spent many a roadtrip learning how to best photograph and film this unreal region. The Sierra Nevadas are our favorite place, and we know they’re yours too. We want to capture you in your element in the most beautiful way!

Local Vendors & Services:

• Planner & Rentals: Green Fox Events
• Officiant:  Jill Orzo +1-750-861-5106 or Stacey Powells +1-661-433-9800
• Florist:  Red Lily Design, The Floral Apothecary,  Alpenglow Gardens, Fairy Forest Florist
• Catering: Mammoth Mountain, Daniel Molnar AKA “powder Dan,”  June Lake Catering
• Hair & Makeup Artist: The Powder Room by Katrina, Allyson Marie Co, Alpenglow Bridal
• Transportation: Mammoth Taxi, MAWS (Mammoth All Weather Transportation)

Why These Vendors Matter

While Mammoth is incredible, it’s harsh. It’s a location at altitude with moody weather. Trusting vendors that know the region will eliminate stress and help your day go smoothly. We also have back up plans ready to go in case the need arises.

What to Budget for Your Mammoth Lakes Wedding

The cost of a Mammoth Lakes wedding can vary widely depending on the style of day you want. The average traditional Mammoth Lakes wedding ranges from $25,000–$65,000+, depending on venue, guest count, and season.

A just-us-two or small elopement in Mammoth Lakes typically ranges from $6,000–$15,000, depending on photography coverage, permits, lodging, and activities.

Because Mammoth offers everything from public-lands ceremony spots to luxury accommodations, the range is wide, but incredibly flexible.

Cost Breakdown for a Mammoth Lakes Wedding

Photography- $5,000–$8,000

Your photographer is often your biggest investment for an elopement.  And the person who guides, plans, scouts locations, builds timelines, and documents all the magic.

Videography- $3000- $5000

We do that too!

Ceremony Venue-  $0 – $18,000

• Public Lands Ceremony: Free–$150
  (Hot Creek, Convict Lake, Minaret Vista, etc.)
  
• Private Venues:$2,000–$18,000 (Convict Lake Resort, Sierra Meadows Ranch, Hayden Cabin, McCoy Station, etc.)

Important to note is that many private venues have a reception cost baked into their packages. Ceremony only vs Reception only costs can vary.

Lodging- $150–$1000+/night

Lodging in Mammoth varies widely, from quaint cabins to gigantic homes with several rooms. Many of my couples end up in the larger homes so that all their guests can stay with them. If you want to keep lodging extra cost effective, consider bringing your camper van or RV for camping rates. Check out Mammoth RV Park (this is where I usually stay). Mammoth is also home to an abundance of free, dispersed camping.

Food & Catering- $20–$150 per person

Dining options vary widely:

• Packed picnic or charcuterie at a lake
• Dinner to-go at your favorite local spot (usually picked up by me).
• Private chef at your cabin
• Full restaurant reception (The Brasserie, The Mill Café, Parallax, etc.)
• Catering through Mammoth Mountain

Officiant- $0- $600

• Have a friend officiate- free
• Have your (ordained) photographer sign- free
• Hire a local professional officiant

Hair & Makeup- $200-$800

Florals- $40/ bout, $350/ bouquet

Adventure Activities-  $0–$500

(One of the reasons Mammoth is fun to get married in.)

Examples:

• Helicopter tour – starting at $88
• Willy’s Mountain Coaster- $18
• Gondola rides – $40–$80/person
• Hot springs soak – free
• SUP rentals – $40–$60
• Snowmobile – $100–$300
• 4×4 trail- cost of gas

How to Save Money on your Mammoth Lakes Wedding

• Choose a public lands ceremony location- most are free and more beautiful anyways
• Get married on a weekday- less crowds, better availability.
• Avoid peak holiday weekends-Saves hundreds on lodging.
• Keep your guest list small- Everything becomes simpler (and more magical).
• Hire a hair and makeup coach- you’ll learn a life skill and if we have more than one day of adventures, you’re prepared.
• Travel in your adventure rig and stay at a campground.

What Makes a Mammoth Lakes Wedding Worth It

Your budget doesn’t dictate your experience here.
Your priorities do.
And Mammoth is incredible at meeting you exactly where you are.  Whether that’s a zero-dollar trailhead ceremony or an 11,000-foot mountaintop celebration with a private chef.

Where to Stay- For You and Your Guests

You and your guests will need a cozy place to land after a day in the mountains. Here are my favorite stays, from cabins big enough for a full wedding party to tiny homes made for two.

Vacation Rentals to Accommodate a Crowd

Tjelta Cabin

Obsidian #7

Slopeside at Canyon– 12 beds

The Heron– 10 beds

Huge Cabin– 12 beds

Chalet A frame– 22 beds

Town House by Chair 15- 12 beds

Modern A-Frame– – 3 beds

Cozy Cabins for just the two of you

Tiny Home, Pet Friendly

Convict Lake Resort Cabins (from 2 people to many more)

Four Seasons A-Frames– June Lakes, lots of options

The Lonsdale Cabin– at Sierra Meadows Ranch

Hotel Stays

The Westin Monache 4 star resort

The Village Lodge not formally rated, but considered luxury

Juniper Springs Resort 4 star resort

Final Mammoth Tips for a Smooth, Safe, and Magical Wedding Day

Planning a Mammoth Lakes wedding means embracing the mountains, and all the things that come with high altitude life. These quick tips will help you and your guests feel great, stay safe, and enjoy every ounce of the adventure.

Expect Wild Temperature Swings

Mammoth mornings can start out cold (like puffy-jacket cold) and turn into warm, full-sun summer days by afternoon. Layering is your best friend, especially for sunrise ceremonies or late-day portraits. I always recommend brides bring a jacket they don’t mind being photographed in. This one is a go-to.

The Wind Is Real (Especially at Sunset)

Right around golden hour, Mammoth often kicks up those famous Sierra winds. They cool the air quickly and can turn breezy moments into full-on gusts. It’s often worse around bodies of water.

Tip: Bring bobby pins, stay flexible with your ceremony location, and pack an extra layer just in case.

Altitude Sickness Is Real

Some people feel lightheaded, nauseous, or unusually tired when they arrive.  Especially if they came straight from sea level. You may feel the effects of alcohol more strongly from the high altitude (so be careful). Those with heart conditions may not be suitable for the extra high ceremony sites like Mammoth Summit or McCoy Station.

Tips to prevent altitude sickness

• Hydrate more than you think.
• Avoid alcohol your first night in town.
• Take it slow the first 12–24 hours.
• Grab a fresh watermelon juice from Elixir Superfood & Juice for nature’s electrolytes.

High Altitude = Faster Sunburns

And you don’t want to be sunburned on your wedding day (or in your pictures). That high altitude is sneaky, especially when it’s cool temps. Don’t forget to protect your lips and shoulders too!

Give Yourself Time to Acclimate

Don’t show up the night before your wedding! Your setting yourself up for feeling rushed, but you’re also not giving your body time to adjust to the elevation. Minimum 36 hours prior, but let’s just round up to 2 days.

Why Choose Me as Your Mammoth Lakes Wedding Photographer

Choosing a photographer isn’t just about someone who takes pretty pictures. 

Your wedding day isn’t a photoshoot, it’s an experience. I want to make sure you have the best day!

As a Mammoth Lakes wedding photographer, I’m not here to stage a production or rush you through a checklist. 

Here’s what couples tell me they appreciate most:

• I know Mammoth intimately. The light, the timing, the weather patterns, the hidden dirt roads and the best morning latte.
  
• I read the room (and the moment). I know when to gently guide, when to step back, and when to hold space for a moment unfolding.
  
• I care about how the day feels, not just how it looks. My goal is for you to end the day feeling content, connected, and deeply present with each other.
  
• I help with logistics. Permits, timing, location scouting, guest comfort, 4×4 access… all the things that can overwhelm you? I’ve got you.
  
• Dogs, families, friends-  all welcome. I create environments where everyone feels comfortable and included. Guests are always welcome.

If you want a photographer who will adventure with you, support you, and create a day that feels true to you, I’d love to be that person.

Ready to Plan Your Mammoth Lakes Wedding?

If going to Mammoth feels like going home, then there’s no better place to get married! Let’s make your wedding day match the magic of this place. Whether you’re dreaming big or keeping it simple, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Reach out and let’s start planning your Mammoth Wedding adventure!