So you decided you wanted to take an adventure to Yosemite for your elopement! There are countless breathtaking spots for you to elope and experience in Yosemite! You probably chose Yosemite for its iconic landscapes, but let me be your guide to all my favorite spots in the best national park in California! Yosemite National Park is one of my favorite places in the entire WORLD to visit, explore and play, so you can trust you’re getting the absolute best suggestions! Just ask anyone who has been to Yosemite with me, I get SOO excited to go every single time. It never gets old. If you’re thinking about eloping here, check out this ultimate guide on how to elope in Yosemite National Park! See photo inspiration for your own elopement along the way.
Where to Elope in Yosemite | How to Elope in Yosemite National Park
Choosing a location for your Yosemite elopement can be a difficult task. I mean how are you supposed to choose?! I recommend choosing your absolute favorite location for your ceremony and exploring the rest of the spots after your ceremony! That way you’ll have stunning photos in each location. Here are some of the best spots for your elopement in Yosemite!
Glacier Point
This is a very popular spot in Yosemite! You can drive up to Glacier Point so no hiking is required! If you’re thinking about eloping in Glacier point this is a great spot! The park also allows you to have up to 50 people during your ceremony. If you are having multiple family members of all ages at your Yosemite elopement, or family photos then this spot will be perfect! You can get to Glacier Point by heading down Wawona Road and after traveling about 13 miles, turn on to the Glacier Point Road at the Chinquapin intersection.
Taft Point
This location is so incredibly breathtaking and overlooks Yosemite Valley. The pictures honestly speak for themselves! It is located west of Glacier Point. To get there you drive down Glacier Point road for about 6 miles and the trail is on the left! Hiking there is only 2.2 miles there and back! It is a fairly easy hike. Taft Point doesn’t have any guardrails which is great for photos for a ceremony but if you are bringing your kids along to your elopement it can be dangerous for small children!
Tunnel View
Tunnel View showcases the best views of Yosemite Valley! April is the perfect time to capture the stunning sunrise at Tunnel View. Unlike the period from October to early April when the sun rises around 2-3 hours later, from mid-April to September, you can witness the sun peeking just after sunrise, offering a breathtaking sight during your ceremony. It’s an exciting opportunity for photographers to be able to capture stunning photos! It is located at the east end of the Wawona Tunnel along the Wawona Road. Additionally, you can drive up to this spot and walk up to the beautiful vista!
Yosemite Chapel
If you’re wanting to get married in a chapel, or have it as a background for your Yosemite photos then you should consider the Yosemite Chapel! It is historic and known as a great spot for an elopement! It is a great place to start and explore the areas near the chapel for some great photos! The Yosemite Chapel is located on Southside Drive, in eastern Yosemite Valley!
Bridal Veil Falls
For a stunning waterfall backdrop, Bridalveil Fall is ideal. Accessible year-round, this location allows up to 50 guests and is positioned in a forested clearing where the falls are visible. Restrooms are nearby.
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area
Nestled in Yosemite Valley, this pebble beach spot is stunning in fall, with views of El Capitan as your ceremony backdrop. The site is available from the Tuesday after Memorial Day until October 31st and closes at dusk. Limited parking (six vehicles max) means carpooling is recommended. Groups over 35 people (up to 50 people) require a monitor.
Other Yosemite Ceremony Locations
Cascades Picnic Area
Located on the south side of El Portal Road, just west of the Valley, this serene spot allows up to 30 guests. Restroom facilities are nearby, but parking is limited to eight vehicles. Ceremonies should be held within the designated picnic area at least six feet from the river’s edge. Open year-round, though ceremonies are not permitted on the nearby falls viewing platform.
Lower Yosemite Fall Paved Trail
This accessible trail offers a serene space with the sounds of Yosemite Falls nearby. Ceremonies can accommodate up to 50 people, but should avoid the Yosemite Creek Bridge and the waterfall base for privacy. Restrooms are close by, and due to limited parking, the shuttle bus is highly recommended. Open all year, except for holiday weekends.
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
Located northeast of Swinging Bridge, this site accommodates up to 20 people. Ceremonies must avoid the bridge and the meadow, and carpooling is encouraged due to limited parking. Open all year, except holiday weekends.
Sentinel Beach Picnic Area
Another beautiful spot with access to the river, Sentinel Beach can host up to 100 people. Available from Memorial Day Tuesday until October 31st, with a dusk closing. Groups over 50 people require monitoring, and carpooling is advised with parking limited to eight vehicles.
Tenaya Lake Beach
Located at an elevation of 8,150 feet, Tenaya Lake’s eastern end offers a picturesque beach setting for up to 50 people. From the parking lot, follow the trail left for a scenic location just 100 yards from the lot.
Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Area
A more secluded, intimate option, located upstream from the lodge on a granite slab. With parking limited, carpooling is recommended for the 25-person capacity area.
Tuolumne Grove
A 2.5-mile round trip hike on a paved but steep trail leads to the Tuolumne Grove of sequoias. The ceremony must stay on the footpath to protect the sequoia roots, with a maximum of 30 people.
Merced Grove
The moderate 3-mile hike here makes this sequoia grove an intimate ceremony option. Similar to Tuolumne Grove, the ceremony area is along the footpath with a 30-person limit.
This guide offers just a glimpse into the many stunning options within Yosemite for your wedding or elopement, each with its unique setting and seasonal considerations. Let’s make your Yosemite ceremony unforgettable, tailored to your vision and Yosemite’s natural splendor.
Choosing a Yosemite Elopement Photographer
Choosing a photographer for your Yosemite elopement is a crucial step to planning your elopement! It’s important you choose a photographer that you connect with and their photos fit the style you are looking for!
I’m Alyssa, a Yosemite elopement photographer! I love adventuring with my couple’s throughout the park and capturing their love through photos. I know Yosemite like the back of my hand and I help my couple’s with choosing a location, vendors, creating timeline and permit assistance! Below are my elopement packages! I would absolutely love to be your Yosemite elopement photographer! Contact me here and let’s connect!
Vendors
Make up & Hair
Sierra Jane Studios LLC
Email: sierrajanestudios@gmail.com
Yosemite Makeup & Hair LLC
Website: https://www.instagram.com/sierrajanestudios?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Email: info@yosemitemakeup.com
Website: http://www.yosemitemakeupandhair.com
Make up by Dara
Email: makeupbydara@gmail.com
Website: https://makeupbydara.com/
A & A Bridal Hair and Make up
Email: info@aabridalhairandmakeup.com
Website: https://www.aabridalhairandmakeup.com/
Officiant
The Marriage Minister -Erica Rose
Email: ericasroses1@gmail.com
Website: https://www.ericarose.org/the-marriage-minister
I Do Wedding Officiant
Email: Idobymonicamendoza@gmail.com
Weddings by Emma Chavez
Website: https://bio.weddingsbyemmachavez.com/
Donny Alexander
Email: donny@yosemiteadventureelopements.com
Website: https://yosemiteadventureelopements.com/
Video
Carlos Burgos
Email: CARLOSBURGOSFILMS@GMAIL.COM
Website: https://www.carlosburgosfilms.com/
Planner
The Wandering Bride Ca
Email: jessica@thewanderingbride.com
Website: https://thewanderingbride.com/contact/
The Social Spree
Website: https://thesocialspreeevents.com/
Florist
Sweet dreams floral design- Roman & Laura Zabicki
Website:https://www.sweetdreamsfloral.com/
Email: sweetdreamsfloral@gmail.com
phone: 559-641-7606
Wildbud Floral Co.
Website: https://www.wildbud.co/
Phone: 209-288-2051
The Enchanted Florist & Whatnots
Website: https://theenchantedfloristandwhatnots.com/
Email: jenlyster@gmail.com
Phone: (559) 683-5455
Cake
Sweet Dreams Cakery
Website: https://www.sweetdreamscakery.com/
Email: SweetDreamsCakery559@gmail.com
Phone: 559-624-9544
How to get a Yosemite Elopement Permit | How to Elope in Yosemite National Park
You need to make it legal if you want to get married in Yosemite! Go here to read more about how to get a permit, and fill out the application here: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/weddings.htm Once you fill it out, it’s a $150 cost to save your date. For wedding permit information contact Catherine by email or by phone 209/379-1858.
Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park | How to Elope in Yosemite National Park
INSIDE THE PARK
- Yosemite Valley- Book this on the yosemite website here
- Wawona (private land within Yosemite)
- Yosemite West (just outside of, but only accessible from, Yosemite)
Highway 41 from the south:
- Fish Camp and Oakhurst
Highway 140 from the west:
- El Portal, Midpines, and Mariposa
The Highway 120 from the west:
- Buck Meadows, Groveland, and Sonora
Highway 120 from the east:
- Lee Vining, June Lake, and Mammoth Lakes
- (no access to Yosemite approximately November to late May or June)
Lodging
YOSEMITE WEST AIRBNBS
Website: https://www.airbnb.com/yosemite-west-ca/stays
TENAYA LODGE
Website: https://www.visittenaya.com/
Phone: (888) 514-2167
AUTOCAMP YOSEMITE
Website: https://autocamp.com/location/yosemite/
Phone: (844) 993-9888
Address: 6323 CA-140 Midpines, CA 95345
YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE
Website: https://www.yosemite.com/places-to-stay/hotels-and-motels/yosemite-valley-lodge/
Phone: 888-413-8869
Address: 9006 Yosemite Lodge Dr, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, CA 95389
Camping
HOUSEKEEPING CAMP
This experience is somewhere between camping out and staying in a rustic cabin. Guests are provided a developed “campsite” that features a covered shelter, a cooking and dining area, cots, a table and a fire ring. You must bring your own linen and cooking supplies. Open from spring to early falls. Book on Recreation.gov
YOSEMITE VALLEY CAMPING
- North Pines (open April-Oct) $26 daily fee. Book on recreation.gov. 81 spaces
- Upper Pines (open all year) $26 daily fee. Book on recreation.gov. 238 spaces
- Lower Pines (open April-Oct) $26 daily fee. Book on recreation.gov. 60 spaces
- Camp 4 (open all year) $6/person. First come first serve. 35 spaces
WAWONA CAMPING
- Wawona (Open all year) $26 daily fee. Book on recreation.gov April-early September. Otherwise first come first serve. 93 spaces.
GLACIER POINT ROAD CAMPING
- Bridalveil Creek (open Aug-mid september) $18 daily fee. First come first serve.
ENTRANCE RESERVATIONS
A reservation is required to drive into Yosemite National Park on some days from April 13th through October 27, 2024, for those driving into the park between 5 am and 4 pm as follows:
- April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (May 27 and June 19). A reservation is not required on other days.
- July 1 through August 16: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm every day.
- August 17 through October 27: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (September 2 and October 14). A reservation is not required on other days.
Driving through the park also requires a reservation if entering between 5 am and 4 pm (on days a reservation is required).
Get your Reservations here:
https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10086745
Where to Eat in Yosemite | How to Elope in Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Village Dining Options: When you’re in Yosemite Valley, there are plenty of great places to grab a bite—if you know where to look! Yosemite Village offers several fantastic dining choices. Here are a few you might want to try:
Degnan’s Kitchen – Enjoy a variety of options including sandwiches, salads, pizza, breakfast, coffee, and more.
- The Loft at Degnan’s – If you’re in the mood for BBQ, this spot serves up chicken, wings, ribs, and more. It’s a solid choice for lunch or dinner!
- Village Grill Deck – Offering burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, and salads, this outdoor deck is a perfect place to sit back and relax with a meal.
- Village Store – This general store has everything from groceries to ready-to-cook meals, making it a convenient stop for all your needs.
Dining at Yosemite Valley Lodge: The lodge features two main dining options:
- The Mountain Room: For a more upscale dining experience, consider this spot for a delicious steak dinner.
- Base Camp Eatery: A casual food court located within Yosemite Valley Lodge, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can also grab your Starbucks fix here.
Curry Village Dining: If you’re staying near Half Dome in Curry Village, you’ll find several dining spots to enjoy:
- Pizza Patio: A laid-back outdoor setting where you can savor some quick and tasty pizza.
- Coffee Corner: The go-to spot for your morning coffee and a quick breakfast in Curry Village.
- Curry Village Pavilion: The food court of Curry Village, offering a range of dining options depending on the day.
- Meadow Grill: From burgers and sandwiches to salads and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone at this casual eatery.
Activities to do in Yosemite| How to Elope in Yosemite National Park
HIKES:
| Trail | Difficulty | Distance | Elevation Gain |
| Bridalveil Fall Trail | Easy | 0.5 mi / 0.8 km (round trip) | 80 ft / 24 m |
| Lower Yosemite Fall Trail | Easy | 1 mi / 1.6 km (entire loop) | 50 ft / 15 m |
| Cook’s Meadow Loop | Easy | 1 mi / 1.6 km (entire loop) | Flat |
| Mirror Lake Loop | Easy to Moderate | 2 mi / 3.2 km (lake & back)5 mi / 8 km (entire loop) | 100 ft (to lake)200 ft (loop) |
| Valley Loop Trail | Moderate | 6.5 mi / 10.5 km (half loop)13 mi / 20.9 km (full loop) | Mostly flat |
| Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall Trails | Moderate to Strenuous | 1.6 mi-8 mi /2.5 km-13 km (round trip) | 400 ft to 2000 ft120 m to 600 m |
| Yosemite Falls Trail | Moderate to Strenuous | 2.0 mi / 3.2 km (round trip) 7.2 mi / 11.6 km (round trip) | 1000 ft / 328 m2700 ft / 825 m |
| Snow Creek Trail | Strenuous | 9.4 mi / 15.1 km (round trip) | 2700 ft / 825 m |
| Four Mile Trail | Strenuous | 4.8 mi / 7.7 km (one way) | 3200 ft / 975 m |
| Half Dome Trail | Strenuous | 14 mi-16.4 mi /22.4 km-26.2 km (round trip) | 4800 ft / 1475 m |
RENT A BIKE:
Yosemite Valley Lodge 209-372-1208
Curry Village 209-372-8435
https://www.travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/biking/
There are more than 12 miles of paved bicycle paths
GUIDED TOURS:
https://www.travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/guided-bus-tours/
209-372-1240
FISHING:
Available Mid April to Mid November
SWIM IN MERCED RIVER OR MIRROR LAKE:
https://www.travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/swimming/
RAFTING:
Short window of availability on the summer. Check out https://www.travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/rafting/
HORSEBACK RIDING:
https://www.travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/horseback-mule-riding/
WILDERNESS CENTER:
Located in Yosemite village
PACK A PICNIC:
Enjoy an interpretive Program
Consult the Yosemite guide for daily activities
ART CLASSES:
Ready to Elope in Yosemite National Park? Book me as your Yosemite Elopement Photographer!
I hope this guide was helpful as you plan your Yosemite elopement! If you’re still looking for a Yosemite elopement photographer, I would LOVE to be a part of your special day. You can see more of my work here! If you think we are a great fit then fill out a contact form! I can’t wait to hear from you!
