How to Plan Your Yosemite Elopement: The Ultimate Guide

Yosemite National Park

June 3, 2026

A guide on how to get married in Yosemite National Park

Here’s what I love about you: You’re the adventurous couple. You love experiencing new places together, and a Yosemite elopement is just so “you.” If I had to guess, you’ve probably slept in the back of a truck to make first tracks on the mountain, traveled to more places than you can count, and would take a starry night over a flashy party any day. Yes please, campfire ambiance!

A bride and groom stand at Taft Point during a beautiful sunset.

A groom kisses his bride in a yosemite meadow

Now you’re on to your next big adventure: Your Yosemite Elopement!

Did you know that Yosemite is considered one of the Seven Wonders of North America? People come from all over the world to visit Yosemite, and it’s no wonder you might want to say your vows and kick off your marriage surrounded by some of the most incredible displays of nature on Earth.

I’m a mountain local and I grew up just outside the Yosemite park boundary. I photographed my first Yosemite wedding in 2012 and have been back more times than I can count. My hope is that this is the only Yosemite elopement guide you’ll ever need.

Why Choose Yosemite for Your Elopement

I like to think of a Yosemite wedding as reliving your best summer vacation ever. It’s all the wild and beautiful freedom, combined with just enough park amenities for an awesome day.

And did I mention that Yosemite is one of the seven natural wonders of Northern America?!

Seriously though, for only $150 bucks you can have one of the best views in the world.

A bride and groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day, in front of Half Dome, in Yosemite National Park.

From the dramatic cliffs of El Capitan to the soft meadows along the Merced River, every corner of the park offers a storybook setting for your vows. Unlike a typical venue, Yosemite allows couples to slow down and spend time with each other in nature.

There’s also something for everyone. Maybe it’s just the two of you or maybe you’re including some guests- Yosemite can accommodate both. That’s right- you can book a “traditional indoor” wedding venue in Yosemite (more on that later), or you can be fully outside with the best backdrop of your life.

Whether you crave adventure, solitude, comforts, or amenities, a Yosemite elopement can do it all. PS there’s also really good pizza in Yosemite, let’s just get that out of the way now.

A bride and groom stand in front of Half Dome from the view at Glacier Point, in Yosemite, on their wedding day.

Yosemite Basics

If you’re planning from afar, a quick logistical overview of Yosemite will clear up a lot of questions. This info applies for all visitors, not just those planning their weddings.

The park spans three counties, with five entrances.

Yosemite is huge, and the majority of visitors (around 95%) only see Yosemite Valley, which is just 5% of the park. The valley, along with popular viewpoints like Tunnel View, Taft Point, and Glacier Point, are where you’ll find most of the crowds. Most Yosemite elopements and small weddings take place at one of the valley locations or at Glacier Point (more on Yosemite Wedding Locations soon).It’s also important to know there are National Park Service locations and Concessions locations for weddings within the park.

Concessions are operated by Aramark, for example, the Ahwahnee Hotel, Curry Village, etc.

But popular, outdoor Yosemite ceremony locations are under the National Park Service. Later in this guide, we’ll break down the differences and options so you can choose the perfect spot for your ceremony.

A couple exchanges vows overlooking Yosemite Valley.

The Park Entrances:

Big Oak Flat: Open year round and closest to SFO. You’ll drive through the historic Gold-Rush era town of Groveland. I like to swing by Mountain Sage for a coffee or Tangled Hearts for breakfast burrito.
Arch Rock: Open year round. This is the El Portal (town) entrance. It’s named for some curious boulders that you drive through. It’s also the closest entrance to Yosemite valley, only 10 miles. (It’s estimated that 95% of visitors only see the valley).
South Entrance: Open year round. Commonly called the Wawona Entrance or South Gate. You’ll pass through the town of Oakhurst, which is your last good stop for supplies. But upon entering the park, there is a small but expensive grocery store not far from the gate.
Tioga Pass: Only open seasonally, typically late May or June through November. But, exact dates depend on snow. This is an incredible drive, winding you through Tuolumne Meadows, before eventually allowing you to reach the valley.
Hetch Hetchy: (The one you probably won’t use for anything). Open year round, but only during daylight hours. Hetch Hetchy is technically a part of Yosemite, but it’s not usually what people imagine when they think of Yosemite. You cannot directly access Yosemite Valley from the Hetch Hetchy entrance. Hetch Hetchy is very close to popular Evergreen Lodge (cabins as well as wedding venue) making it an easy day trip if you’re staying there.

If you’re flying in from out of state, here are the closest major airports and the entrances they’re most convenient for:

San Francisco (SFO): Big Oak Flat entrance (~4 hours drive)
Fresno (FAT): Wawona / South Entrance (~1.5 hours drive)
Sacramento (SMF): Big Oak Flat entrance (~3.5 hours drive)
Los Angeles (Lax): Tioga Pass Entrance, seasonal (~6 hours drive)

A bride and groom stand in front of lower yosemite falls on their wedding day.

Yosemite Entrance Fees

A standard park entrance fee applies per vehicle or per person if entering by shuttle or bike. Annual passes can be cost-effective if you plan multiple visits or want to visit more than one national park.

Standard Vehicle Entrance Fee:

$35 per private vehicle (covers all occupants) and is valid for 7 consecutive days.
Individual walk-ins or bikers pay ~$20 per person (ages 16+). Children 15 & under are free.

Yosemite Annual Pass:

$70 — grants unlimited Yosemite entry for 12 months from the date of purchase.
Can be purchased at park entrance stations or visitor centers.

Non-resident Surcharge

As of January 2026, there is a $100 surcharge for any non-U.S. resident aged 16 and older. It is in addition to the $35 vehicle entrance fee.

America the Beautiful — National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Pass:

$80 — valid for 12 months from purchase, covering entrance fees to Yosemite and over 2,000 federal sites across the U.S.
Admits the passholder and accompanying passengers in one private vehicle (or up to four if entering by foot/bike).
Purchase online via the USGS Store or at Yosemite entrance stations.

Park Reservations (also called Ticketed Entry)

Great news- no more ticketed entry for 2026! You don’t need to plan ahead to access Yosemite, just show up and pay the entrance fees.

Best Time of Year to Get Married in Yosemite

It’s possible to get married in Yosemite during any season, but each one comes with it’s own considerations.

Winter

Snow blankets the valley and meadows, creating a serene, ethereal setting.
The park is quieter, ideal for couples craving privacy, but some roads and high-elevation areas may be closed. Most importantly, no access to Glacier Point, Taft Point or Tioga Pass.

Spring

Waterfalls are at peak flow, wildflowers bloom around late May, and wildlife emerges from winter slumber.
Weather can be unpredictable, and some areas like Tioga Pass and Glacier Point could still be closed, but it changes every year. It can open as early as May.
Meadows are at their most beautiful and green around late April to late May.
Trees may not have gotten their spring foliage yet in early March, but are usually full by late April.
Most of the campsites are still closed for the season.

Summer

Classic Yosemite summer camp vibes.
The road to Glacier Point and Taft Point are open for sure.
Ceremony permits (special use permits) are available for the more popular locations, including Glacier Point & Cathedral Beach.
The Merced river is ready for swimming and fishing.
The many waterfalls are still flowing, but will start to taper as the summer progresses.
Camping is open (but plan ahead and secure your spot 5 months in advance).
Expect larger crowds, especially at popular spots like Yosemite Valley, but sunrise and sunset sessions can help you avoid them.

Fall

Fewer visitors make fall a favorite for intimate Yosemite elopements.
The temperatures become more mild, while nights are cooler, daytime temperatures are perfect.
Fall foliage in Yosemite is spectacular, with the many oaks putting on a golden show.
Meadows will turn golden as winter approaches, but I think the golden meadow with orange foliage is magical.
The light at this time of year is perfect for photos, it’s different from summer as the sun takes a lower path in the sky.
Sunrise and sunset (popular Yosemite photoshoot times) are a little easier, as sunrise is later and sunset is earlier. This means you can both sleep in a bit longer, and have dinner closer to dinner time.

My Favorite Seasons for Yosemite Weddings:

For most couples, spring and fall strike the perfect balance between accessibility, fewer crowds, and epic scenery. Winter is magical if you love snow, while summer offers the quintessential Yosemite experience (think swimming, fishing, and warmer summer nights).

Yosemite Wedding Locations

From super iconic vistas (I’m looking at you Glacier Point), to more secluded riverside beaches, Yosemite offers an incredible variety of settings.

Official Yosemite Wedding Ceremony Locations (NPS approved)

If you’re planning a Yosemite wedding with more than 11 people, you’ll need to choose from the National Park Service’s approved ceremony locations.

YOSEMITE VALLEY LOCATIONS:

Cascades Picnic Area: quiet picnic spot near the Merced river, just outside of the “main” valley.
Lower Yosemite Fall Paved Trail- easily accessible, if you look up, you can see Yosemite falls when it’s in full flow.
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area- a sandy stretch of beach with a classic view of Yosemite granite.
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area- a quiet corner of the valley with a peaceful view of the Merced river and an impressive view of El Capitan.
Sentinel Beach Picnic Area- secluded spot along the Merced river with a view of Yosemite Falls.
Bridalveil Fall- a new ceremony spot in a wooded area, that clears just enough to see the falls.

Want the full breakdown, including guest capacities, accessibility notes, best times of year, and video walkthroughs? I have a complete Yosemite Wedding Locations Guide.

GLACIER POINT & WAWONA CEREMONY LOCATIONS:

Glacier Point Amphitheater-the ultimate Yosemite ceremony location. The most epic view of Half Dome and the only location with included ceremony seating. And it’s one of the few places in the park where dogs are allowed, AND where you’re allowed to have your ceremony.
Chilnualna Falls Trailhead Parking Lot- a mysterious dirt patch a trailhead in Wawona (not in the valley), near cabin rentals and The Redwoods in Yosemite (an event venue within the park).

TUOLUMNE MEADOWS CEREMONY LOCATIONS:

Tenaya Lake Beach- a lesser known but incredible location to take in a high alpine lake surrounded by granite.
Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Area- a ceremony spot along the Tuolumne River from the Dana Fork rock slab.

SEQUOIA GROVE CEREMONY LOCATIONS:

Tuolumne Grove- a quiet grove of giant sequoias that requires a hike.
Merced Grove- another peaceful grove of giant sequoias accessed by foot.

How to Choose Your Yosemite Ceremony Location

Accessibility: drive-up location, short walk, or longer hike
Crowd levels: some designated ceremony sites are more popular than others. The most popular one (for weddings and tourists alike) is Glacier Point. Locations in the valley vary from in full view of any passerby (Bridalveil is a good example), to mostly secluded (Sentinel Beach is very secluded).
Season: some locations close in winter due to snow, and some are not offered year-round.
Scenery: Which do you like best? Waterfalls, expansive meadows, iconic postcard locations, granite cliffs, rivers, or sequoias.

If you’re looking for totally biased opinions on which ceremony sites are the best and when, see my full guide to Yosemite wedding locations. (Hint, I’ll never tell you to pick the one in the parking lot). And if you’re looking for the official info from the park, you can find that here.

A bride and groom stand in front of Half Dome at Glacier Point in Yosemite.

Yosemite Elopement Rules for Small Groups (11 People or Fewer)

If your ceremony includes 11 people or fewer total, you are not limited to the official National Park Service ceremony location list. There are still rules and limitations, but this opens up some of Yosemite’s most coveted locations.

My Favorite Yosemite Elopement Locations

Yes, I’m a total Yosemite snob. After photographing and scouting all over the park, these are a few of my favorite Yosemite elopement locations- not just because they’re beautiful, but because they actually work well for real wedding days.

GLACIER POINT: Best Sunrise Yosemite Location

There is no better place in the park to watch the sun rise behind Half Dome. As the light starts to peek out from behind this iconic rock formation, everything changes fast. Twilight turns into early morning, the sky starts to glow, and suddenly the whole scene feels golden, dramatic, and very “yes, this was worth waking up at 3 a.m for.”

CATHEDRAL BEACH: Best Easy Access Location

Cathedral Beach is one of the few locations in Yosemite where the official parking lot is literally in the trees and right next to the ceremony location. You’ll still need to walk across the pebbled beach once you get out of your car — how far you go is up to you.

And this is not a “convenient but boring” location. Cathedral Beach is epic, with a stunning view of El Capitan.

YOSEMITE FALLS VANTAGE POINT: Best Winter Location for 11 People or Less

While this is not an official ceremony site, it would be perfect for groups of 11 or less. Jump right out of your car and take just a few steps to be in view of Cooks Meadow and Yosemite Falls.

BRIDALVEIL FALL: Best Winter Location for Weddings with Guests

Bridalveil Fall is an official year round wedding ceremony location, and with fewer crowds in the winter, this location would be amazing. It has an incredible vertical view of the waterfall, framed by trees and foliage. I can just imagine it dusted with snow, it would be stunning.

SENTINEL BEACH: Best Wedding Location for Privacy

Sentinel is an easy access location (you can drive right up), but it’s down a short dirt road, making it feel much more secluded from the rest of the park. There’s tons of parking. I’m always surprised that every time I go, it’s practically empty.
Of course, if you have 11 people or fewer and privacy is your top priority, I’d usually look beyond the official ceremony location list entirely.

GLACIER POINT AMPHITHEATER: Best Location for Guests

Glacier Point wins again. But this time it’s for a different reason.

Glacier Point Amphitheater is the only location on the National Park Service’s official Yosemite wedding ceremony list with built-in amphitheater seating. If you’re planning a wedding with more than 20 guests, that is a major bonus — especially in a national park, where setting up chairs for ceremony is not allowed. (But who’s going to say no to your 80 year old grandma who brought her beach chair is beyond me).

It is also a once-in-a-lifetime view for most guests. The tradeoff is that Glacier Point sits at a much higher elevation than Yosemite Valley, which may be harder on some people. If anyone in your group has health concerns or may be sensitive to altitude, a Valley location may be the safer and more comfortable choice. However, Glacier Point is an ADA accessible ceremony location.

One important note: Glacier Point is the only official National Park Service ceremony location with built-in seating. However, if you book your wedding through Yosemite’s concessions, such as The Ahwahnee, venue staff will set up ceremony seating for you on the ceremony lawn with a view of Yosemite Falls.

Yosemite Wedding Permits and Rules

Because Yosemite is a national park, wedding ceremonies require a permit, no matter how small. This is called a Special Use Permit, and it’s what allows you to legally hold a wedding or elopement.

I know, permits are not the most romantic part of planning a Yosemite wedding. While they don’t reserve a location for you exclusively, no other wedding permit will be issued for your exact time and location. Wedding ceremony locations remain public spaces, which means tourists may be watching from afar (but most are delighted to stumble upon a wedding and very respectful).

When Do You Need a Yosemite Wedding Permit?

Any wedding ceremony requires a permit. A permit grants you a time and location to have your wedding ceremony. Even if you get married via concessions (The Ahwahnee, The Yosemite Lodge, The Wawona Hotel) or The Chapel, a permit is still required.

Yosemite Ceremony Rules to Know

National Park Ceremony locations are not private venues. That means that the public is allowed to watch your wedding. You’re getting married on protected public land, which means there are rules. No chairs and no arches, no amplified music, no confetti, no tossed flower petals, no rice, and no drones (in all of Yosemite for any reason). Fresh florals (bouquets and boutonnieres) are allowed, but must not include baby’s breath. Decorations on picnic tables are allowed. Dogs are allowed on fully paved roads, paved sidewalks, and bicycle pathways. Since Glacier Point, Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall are paved, your dog is allowed there. You can see the National Park’s full list of rules here.

Yosemite Wedding Group Size Rules

Your total group count matters. This usually includes the couple, guests, photographer, officiant, videographer, and any other vendors present at the ceremony.

For weddings with more than 11 people total, you’ll need to use one of Yosemite’s official ceremony locations. The maximum allowed number of people is different for each site and listed here. Your group size can directly affect where you’re allowed to get married.For elopements with 11 people or fewer total, you have more flexibility on location.

When Should You Apply for a Yosemite Wedding Permit?

The sooner the better, but not more than a year in advance. They must be submitted with 30 days as an official rule. However unofficially, if it’s a slow season, the amazing people in the permit office will help as much as they can to get your permit finalized, even with less than 30 days lead time.

How to Apply for a Yosemite Wedding Permit

Download the application from the Yosemite National Park website here. Once filled, you’ll mail it (yes, regular mail) with a $150 check to the parks office.
I have a full Yosemite wedding permit guide where I walk through the application line by line, including what to write, what to avoid, where to send it, and how to make the process feel less intimidating. And if you’re my couple, I’ll fill it out for you. If you’re from out of the country, I’ll mail it for you too!

A small group of guests watch while a bride adnd groom say their vows in front of Half Dome in Yosemite.

How to Get Married in Yosemite: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Choose Your Season

Start with the time of year, because Yosemite changes dramatically by season. Your date affects road access, crowds, waterfall flow, lodging, and which locations are available.

Step 2: Reach out to an Experienced Elopement Photographer Guide

Seriously, we nerd out on the planning. When you reach out early, we can help you talk through the decisions that follow so your day moves at the right pace from the very beginning.

Step 3: Pick Your Ceremony Location

Choose a location that fits your guest count, accessibility needs, scenery preferences, and season. Don’t procrastinate on this step, because we want to get your permit in early.

Step 4: Apply for Your Permit

Once you know your date, location, and group size, apply for your Yosemite wedding permit. This is what legally allows you to hold your ceremony inside the park.

Step 5: Book Lodging

Book lodging early, especially if you want to stay inside Yosemite or close to the park. Where you stay can make a huge difference in drive times, getting-ready plans, and how relaxed the day feels. Yosemite lodging can fill up fast.

Step 6: Hire Your Vendors

Hire vendors who understand national park weddings, limited setup rules, early timelines, parking logistics, and changing mountain weather. Yosemite is beautiful, but it’s not the easiest place to wing it. When you work with me, I’ll suggest vendors that would be a great fit. You can check out my vendor guide here.

Step 7: Make an Appointment to Pick up Your Marriage License

Your California marriage license is what makes the marriage legally official. Call the County Clerk’s office closest to your intended Yosemite Park Entrance and make an appointment to pick it up. Marriage licenses can be picked up 90 days in advance, and must be returned within 10 days. It must be returned to the same office you picked it up from.

Step 8: Plan Your Timeline and Activities

This is the best part, and where I come in. After getting to know you, we’ll plan a day that moves at the perfect pace, with plenty of time to enjoy Yosemite’s best views.

I love sneaking in fun, memory-building activities throughout the day, and Yosemite has so many to offer. Have lunch in The Ahwahnee’s formal dining room, rent bikes and cruise the Valley, hit up Curry Village for pizza and beer, explore the Ansel Adams Gallery, or simply spot climbers on El Capitan from the Valley floor.

How to Get a Marriage License for Your Yosemite Wedding

You can get a California marriage license from any county clerk’s office in the state, but your intended Yosemite entrance will likely determine which office is most convenient.

County Clerk’s Offices Closest to Yosemite Park Entrances:

Big Oak Flat Entrance: Tuolumne County Clerk
Phone: (209) 533-5573
This is usually the most convenient option if you’re flying into San Francisco (SFO) or Sacramento (SMF) and entering Yosemite through Big Oak Flat.

El Portal Entrance: Mariposa County Clerk
Phone: (209) 966-2007
This is usually the most convenient option if you’re entering through El Portal, or if you’re flying into the small regional Merced airport.

Wawona / South Entrance: Mariposa County Clerk
Phone: (209) 966-2007
This is usually the most convenient option if you’re flying into Fresno (FAT) and entering Yosemite through the South Entrance.

Tioga Pass Entrance: Mono County Clerk / Recorder
Phone: (760) 932-5530
This is usually the most convenient option if you’re flying into Mammoth Yosemite Airport, staying on the Eastern Sierra side, or driving up from Southern California and entering through Tioga Pass when the road is open.

Important note: Tioga Pass is seasonal and usually closes in winter due to snow, so Mono County is only the most convenient option if you’re planning to access Yosemite from the east side when Tioga Road is open. Many couples coming from Southern California opt to get their marriage license in their home county.

What to Bring to Pick Up Your California Marriage License

Both of you will need to appear in person with valid government-issued photo ID. You’ll also need to pay the marriage license fee, which varies by county.

There is no waiting period in California, which means you can use your marriage license as soon as it is issued. The license is valid for 90 days.

After the Ceremony

After your ceremony, your officiant will sign the marriage license and return it to the county where it was issued. This is what officially records your marriage.

Insider Tip for Tuolumne County

If you pick up your marriage license in Tuolumne County, I can return it to the county clerk on your behalf. They will then mail you the final, official copy of your marriage certificate, which makes things easier for out-of-state couples or anyone planning an adventure-focused Yosemite elopement.

A bride and groom stand on the edge of the cliff at Taft Point for their Yosemite Wedding

Who Can Officiate Your Yosemite Wedding

Ordained friends or family
Professional officiants familiar with Yosemite (find them on my vendor guide)
Love Wildly- That’s me!

Can You Elope Spontaneously in Yosemite?

Probably, here’s how:

Skip the permit and say your vows just outside park boundaries. And then go into the park for adventures and photos. The special use permit is only required for wedding ceremonies (aka vows), but there’s no permit required to take photos (in your wedding clothes) in the park.
Call the County Clerk’s office to be sure you can pick your marriage license. But the good news- there’s no waiting period in the state of California!

What Does a Yosemite Elopement Day Actually Feel Like?

A Yosemite elopement is not just a ceremony with an all day photoshoot. It’s an all-day experience built around the park, the views, and creating awesome memories.

The best Yosemite wedding days have a variety of everything. Maybe that means driving into the park before dawn, sharing a quiet first look with Half Dome in the background, saying your vows as the morning light hits the cliffs, and then spending the rest of the day exploring or celebrating.

It can be adventurous, relaxed, cozy, emotional, or a little bit of everything. You might build your day around sunrise views, river time, a slow meal, a hike, ice cream in Curry Village, or stargazing at night.

The point is to create a day that has all the stuff you care about and none of the stuff you don’t. Basically, it’s like the kind of adventure you’d plan anyway, but with the giant bonus of getting married in the middle of it (and maybe some backpacking cake).

A couple at Taft Point on their wedding day, during a stunning Yosemite sunset.

Activities & Adventures for Your Yosemite Wedding Day

Once you know how you want the day to feel, you can start choosing the activities that fit. Yosemite has options for couples who want a relaxed, cozy day and couples who want a little more adventure.

Sample Yosemite Elopement Timeline

Every Yosemite elopement timeline will look a little different depending on the season, ceremony location, guest count, and how much adventure you want to pack in. But if you’re wondering what an all-day Yosemite elopement could actually look like, here’s a sample sunrise-to-sunset timeline.

Sample 10-Hour Yosemite Elopement Timeline

5:00 AM Arrive at Glacier Point	Change into wedding attire and walk to the first look location. My camper van doubles as a mobile changing room.
5:30 AM First Look at Glacier Point	Exchange letters or vows while in the quiet of sunrise. Take in the glory of Yosemite with Half Dome painted by sunrays.
6:00 AM Directed Photos at Best Glacier Point Locations	Lots of movement while we explore Glacier Point: The geology hut, the diving board, and the iconic Washburn Point bend in the road.
7:30 AM Coffee & Pastries from 8000 feet	There’s no better view for breakfast.
8:00 AM Depart for Yosemite Valley	Drive back to the valley with a quick stop at Tunnel View.
9:00 AM Yosemite Valley Safari	Explore spots like Cathedral Beach, Swinging Bridge, Yosemite Falls and Cook’s Meadow.
11:00 AM Picnic Lunch or Pizza & Beer	End your morning in El Cap Meadow with a picnic lunch or Curry Village for Pizza & Beer.
11:30 AM Midday Break	Nap, rent bikes, or visit The Ahwahnee.
5:00 PM Meet Near Taft Point Trailhead for Forest Photos	This is the perfect opportunity to grab some photos in the trees and wildflowers if they’re in season.
5:45 PM Walk to Taft Point	Take your time on the trail and stop for photos along the way.
6:45 PM Arrive at Taft Point	Take in the view, settle in, and leave room for a picnic, cake cutting, private vows, or a champagne pop.
7:30 PM Sunset Photos	This is the good stuff: golden light, dramatic cliffs, big Yosemite views, and lots of “how is this our real life?” energy.
8:15 PM Watch the stars come out	Blue hour and lantern photos
9:30 PM Arrive back at Cars	Tired, probably hungry again, and very married. Pack a post-hike snack. You’ll want it.

Where to Stay for your Yosemite Wedding

Yosemite Valley Lodging

The Ahwahnee Hotel– the crowning jewel of Yosemite lodging. Elevated nostalgia with a formal dining room and incredible lobby and lounge with high ceilings and grand fireplaces. Rooms range from basic to suites.
The Ahwahnee Cottages– down a tree lined path from the hotel are the cottages. These quaint but lovely cottages give you all the amenities while feeling more tucked away and private than the hotel.
The Yosemite Lodge– expansive hotel lodging in walking distance of Yosemite falls. Close access to the cafeteria, Starbucks, and The Mountain room restaurant.
Curry Village– a collection of tent cabins and small cabins. Not as luxurious as the Ahwahnee Cottages but still a simple cabin stay. Curry Village has lots to offer- coffee bar, ice cream, Meadow Grill, pizza deck, ice skating in winter, bike and raft rentals.
Housekeeping Camp– Mattresses included but nothing else (You can rent bedding). Shared bath house and laundry room with perfect access to the Merced River.

Wawona Lodging

The Wawona Hotel (currently closed for renovations)
The Redwoods in Yosemite– an event venue and collection of privately owned cabins near the Wawona Yosemite entrance

Lodging Closest to Glacier Point for that Sunrise First Look

Yosemite West is privately owned cabins within the park boundaries. It’s also the closest place to stay if you’re doing a Glacier Point sunrise (drive time about 40 minutes).

Places to Stay That Also Double as Wedding Venues

All these locations double as event venues with experienced event staff. That means you can have your ceremony or reception here.

All-Inclusive Yosemite Elopement and Micro Wedding Packages

Want the easy button? Some local vendor friends and I have joined forces to offer an all-inclusive Yosemite elopement wedding package for couples who want a beautiful wedding day without booking every single vendor separately.

You can book photography, videography, florals, hair and makeup, sweetheart cake and picnic boxes all at once, with a team that already knows how to work together in Yosemite.

What to Wear & Pack for your Yosemite Elopement

It may seem strange at first, but most of your Yosemite wedding happens in your wedding clothes! I remember a time where it seemed unusual to see couples so fancy while in nature, but now that i’ve been doing this so long- Yosemite literally makes the grandest backdrop and formal wear on your wedding seems to make sense.

What to Pack for Your Yosemite Adventure Wedding

Marriage license
Let’s make sure this thing is legal at the end. And take good care of it — county clerk offices can be picky about creases.
Rings and vow books
Tiny but important. Put them somewhere safe and easy to access.
Shoes for walking in between locations
We’ll be in all kinds of terrain including cliffs. Traction is so important especially at locations like Taft and Glacier Points.
Backpacks
Useful and cute. I will never get sick of the photo of you hiking from behind with your bouquet peeking out of your backpack.
Bouquet and boutonnière
Fresh flowers are allowed in Yosemite, and I have amazing florist friends. Let me know if you need help. I often pick up florals on my way to save you a delivery fee.
Makeup touch-up kit
More than anything, bring lipstick or gloss. High elevation dries out lips so fast.
Sunblock
And please, please do not get sunburned the day before your wedding.
Mosquito repellent
They can be intense in June. By fall, you’re usually in much better shape.
Headlamps
You’ll need these if we’re hiking after sunset.
Coat or jacket you don’t mind being photographed in
We usually don’t need this in the middle of summer, but in spring and fall it can be very useful. A big part of elopements is the in-between, unposed moments, and you’re probably wearing your jacket during those.
Easy snacks
Pack snacks you can actually eat while moving around. Yosemite days are long, and hanger is not the vibe.
Reusable water bottle
Seriously, drink water all day. And bring your water bottle for a ceremonial Yosemite stickering.

Couple enjoys their wedding day in Yosemite National park

wedding couple in front of half dome from glacier point

Fun Extras for Yosemite Wedding Photos

These are not required, but they can make the day feel more personal:

Just married signs for your hiking backpacks
Sunglasses or bride/groom wedding glasses
Picnic blanket for meadow moments
Celebration beverage like champagne, sparkling cider, or coffee
We eloped announcement card
“Our Adventure Begins” decor sign (and you can use it at home)
A small capsule to put keepsakes in as the day progresses
A favorite card game, song, hobby, or date tradition you want to include- Basically, if there’s something you two already love doing together and it’s portable, we can probably work it into the day.

What to Wear Under Your Wedding Clothes

The number one thing brides forget? The correct undergarments for under the dress.

I know it’s always a rush when your dress comes back from alterations, but take the time to try it on with everything you plan to wear underneath. Think nude underwear, seamless underwear, body tape, shapewear or anything else that helps you feel comfortable and confident.

Helpful Clothing Extras

The Bridal Buddy
This is a thin petticoat you wear under your dress that lets you hike it up for walking. It originally became popular because it made bathroom trips easier in a wedding dress, but it can also be super helpful for adventure elopements.

Nude fleece-lined leggings
If you’re getting married in spring, fall, or winter, nude fleece-lined leggings will change your life.

Backup white button-down shirt
If it’s the middle of summer, many grooms appreciate a shirt change for the second half of the day. It’s hot wearing a suit in Yosemite.

What to Wear on the Drive to Your First Look

Many Yosemite locations come with a bit of a drive. If your clothing is uncomfortable to sit in, or if you don’t want it to crease before your first look, you can change on site in my camper van.

Most grooms arrive in their shirt and pants. Many brides arrive in comfy clothes and change once we’re at the first location.

What Clothing Photographs Best in Yosemite?

I’m honestly game for anything, and I love when couples wear something a little different. The one thing I do think matters is movement.

Yosemite is wild, dramatic, and full of wind and light. Dresses with movement photograph beautifully here because they make the images feel alive. And veils? I love veils.

A veil catching the golden light at sunset or moving in the wind at Glacier Point is simply beautiful.

Why Choose me as your Yosemite Elopement Photographer

Remember what I said about knowing the best bathrooms? Just kidding. Mostly.

I’m Joleen, and I grew up just outside the Yosemite park boundary. I photographed my first Yosemite wedding in 2012, and I’ve been back more times than I can count. I’ve seen every kind of high-country weather, season, and national park traffic situation.

I’ve photographed more than 500 weddings throughout my career, and I can confidently say that Yosemite weddings are where my heart is. But they’re not effortless. That’s where I come in.

There are permits, ceremony rules, seasonal road closures, lodging decisions, guest comfort considerations, and approximately one million beautiful places to choose from.

And if you’re an introvert, shy, or so overwhelmed by everyday life that you just need someone calm to take over — that’s me. Introverted couples are my specialty. I understand couples who are excited to get married somewhere incredible, but maybe not so excited about being the center of attention all day.

Overwhelmed couples who don’t want planning to become their second job are also my favorite.

When you work with me, I’ll help you think through the whole experience: filling out your permit, choosing your ceremony location, finding the best time of day for photos, planning a detailed itinerary, choosing where to stay, and figuring out which vendors can help. By the way, what kind of cake are we having?

But most importantly, we’ll make a plan to enjoy the heck out of this big adventure.

I’m here to take awesome photos of you, of course. But even more than that, I’m here to help you have the absolute best Yosemite experience possible.

Ready to Plan your Yosemite Elopement?

If you made it this far, it’s settled: you’re getting married in Yosemite! How does it feel? Like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders and you’re ready to start planning the adventure of a lifetime?

Maybe you’re picturing a sunrise first look at Glacier Point, vows by the river, pizza at Curry Village, a meadow picnic, star photos, or your dog having his moment in his doggy tux?

Or maybe you’re thinking, “This all sounds amazing, but I would very much like someone else to figure out the logistics.”

Hi. I’m the one in the tie dye with the cameras and cake.

I’ll help you choose the location, build the timeline, fill out the permit, figure out the best light, plan the fun stuff, avoid the unnecessary stress, and make sure the day rocks. El Cap pun absolutely intended.

Load up that adventure-mobile and I’ll bring the Yosemite knowledge, calm direction, timeline, just married enthusiasm and the van.

Ready to make this thing real?

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joleen@love-wildly.com