What No One Tells You About Eloping in a National Park

Eloping in a national park sounds like a dream: Just the two of you, surrounded by wild beauty, no pressure, no big production. And it absolutely can be all that… but there’s also a lot of fine print no one really talks about. Things like permits, location restrictions, and surprise crowds can sneak up on couples who were expecting nothing but peace and pine trees.

As a Yosemite and Sequoia elopement photographer, I photograph national park elopements all the time and while I’m all about the magical moments, I also believe in being honest. So, let’s break down what no one tells you about eloping in a national park, so your day stays magical and stress-free.

couple running through the road at in yosemite for eloping in a national park
couple running through the road at in yosemite for eloping in a national park

couple running through the road at in yosemite for eloping in a national park

A person stands on the edge of a rocky cliff with mountains and trees in the background under a clear sky.
A person stands on the edge of a rocky cliff with mountains and trees in the background under a clear sky.

You (Almost Always) Need a Permit when Eloping in a National Park

Yep, even for super small, just-you-two ceremonies. National parks usually require a permit if you’re planning to say your vows on their land. And they’re not all the same, some have simple forms, others are a bit more complex.

Yosemite? It’s $150 and pretty straightforward. For Sequoia you’ll need a separate application and processing time. The good news is I help all my couples with this part so you’re not drowning in paperwork.

A couple stands hand in hand among giant redwood trees in a sunlit forest when eloping in a national park
A couple stands hand in hand among giant redwood trees in a sunlit forest when eloping in a national park
A couple stands hand in hand among giant redwood trees in a sunlit forest when eloping in a national park
A couple stands holding hands at the base of towering giant sequoia trees in a forest, surrounded by tall tree trunks and sunlight.
A couple stands holding hands at the base of towering giant sequoia trees in a forest, surrounded by tall tree trunks and sunlight.

Not Every Spot Is Elopement-Friendly

Just because you saw a stunning overlook on Pinterest doesn’t mean you can say your vows there. Some iconic photo spots only allow photography not ceremonies. Other locations need special ranger approval or have group size limits.

That’s where having a photographer who knows the park comes in handy. I’ve scouted tons of spots in Yosemite and Sequoia that are not only allowed but absolutely gorgeous.

A couple stands on a rocky ledge with a forest in the background; the woman in a white dress reads from a paper while the man in a suit faces her while they are eloping in a national park
A couple stands on a rocky ledge with a forest in the background; the woman in a white dress reads from a paper while the man in a suit faces her while they are eloping in a national park

A bride and groom stand on a rocky cliff at sunset, overlooking a vast mountain landscape.

A bride and groom stand together on a rocky cliff edge at sunset, overlooking a vast mountainous landscape while they are eloping at a national park
A bride and groom stand together on a rocky cliff edge at sunset, overlooking a vast mountainous landscape while they are eloping at a national park

Expect Crowds Unless You Plan Around Them

Let’s talk about Glacier Point in July, aka, elbow-to-elbow tourists with cameras. National parks are public spaces, which means unless you plan smartly, your quiet moment might turn into a group event. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Choose a weekday, aim for sunrise or sunset, or go during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall). That’s how you get those peaceful, just-you-two vibes. As your Yosemite or Sequoia elopement photographer, I can help you choose the best time!

A woman in a long light dress stands on a fallen log in a forest while a man in a suit helps her balance. Tall trees and fog surround them.
A woman in a long light dress stands on a fallen log in a forest while a man in a suit helps her balance. Tall trees and fog surround them.
A woman in a long light dress stands on a fallen log in a forest while a man in a suit helps her balance. Tall trees and fog surround them.
A couple in wedding attire stands at the base of towering sequoia trees in a foggy forest.
A couple in wedding attire stands at the base of towering sequoia trees in a foggy forest.

Weather & Closures Can Throw You a Curveball

One week the road is open, the next it’s closed due to snow. National parks are stunning but they’re also wild and unpredictable. Glacier Point and Tioga Pass? Closed for months in the winter. And don’t even get me started on wildfires or late spring storms. Having a flexible mindset and a backup plan is key. (Spoiler: I always have one!)

couple stands in a field as they elope in a national park
couple stands in a field as they elope in a national park
couple stands in a field as they elope in a national park

Not All Vendors Are Park-Approved

Some parks require your vendors to have special permits or insurance. That dreamy florist or officiant you love? They may not be cleared to work inside the park unless they’ve done the paperwork. I’ve got all the approvals I need, and I’m happy to help you double-check your other vendors so there are no last-minute surprises.

A couple stands inside the hollow base of a large sequoia tree in a forest, looking at each other as they elope in a national park
A couple stands inside the hollow base of a large sequoia tree in a forest, looking at each other as they elope in a national park
A couple stands inside the hollow base of a large sequoia tree in a forest, looking at each other as they elope in a national park
A couple stands inside the hollow base of a large sequoia tree in a forest, looking at each other as they elope in a national park
A couple stands inside the hollow base of a large sequoia tree in a forest, looking at each other as they elope in a national park

You’ll Need a Leave-No-Trace Mindset

Confetti, loud music, and off-trail wandering might be okay at a regular venue, but not here. National parks take conservation seriously, and following Leave No Trace principles is part of the deal. That doesn’t mean your day won’t be fun or beautiful, it just means it’ll also be respectful of the land you’re on.

A bride and groom stand together on a rocky overlook with mountains and a forested valley in the background under clear skies.
A bride and groom stand together on a rocky overlook with mountains and a forested valley in the background under clear skies.

A bride and groom stand together on a rocky overlook with mountains and a forested valley in the background under clear skies.
A bride and groom stand together on a rocky overlook with mountains and a forested valley in the background under clear skies.

A bride and groom stand together on a rocky overlook with mountains and a forested valley in the background under clear skies.

How to Actually Enjoy Eloping in a National Park

Planning an elopement in a national park can feel like a lot. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. I help with:

  • Permits
  • Timelines
  • Location scouting
  • Backup plans
  • Vendor recommendations

Whether it’s Yosemite, or Sequoia, I’m here to help make it feel easy, fun, and totally you.

A couple in formal attire stands holding hands at the base of giant redwood trees, with sunlight shining through the trees.
A couple stands inside the hollow base of a large sequoia tree in a forest, looking at each other as they elope in a national park
A couple sits together at the base of a massive redwood tree in a forest, surrounded by tall trunks and natural light.
A bride and groom walk hand in hand between two large, towering tree trunks in a forest setting.

Considering Eloping in a National Park? Book me as your Yosemite or Sequoia Elopement Photographer!

Eloping in a national park is just as magical as you imagine, if you go in prepared. Knowing the rules, planning ahead, and having someone in your corner who gets it makes all the difference. I’d LOVE to be your Yosemite or Sequoia elopement photographer! See more of my work here on the blog and contact me here! I can’t wait to hear from you!

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