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Yosemite National Park Elopement Guide

Yosemite National Park is one of the most enchanting places for an elopement. With views of stunning granite cliffs, ancient sequoias, and breathtaking waterfalls, this is a dream destination location for couples looking to elope in a natural paradise. Here is my Yosemite Elopement Guide!

Yosemite Elopement Guide

1. Getting Started

Secure Your Special Use Permit: Yosemite National Park requires permits for weddings and elopements. You don’t want to be kicked out by a park ranger, especially on your elopement day, sadly it can happen. Apply at least 6-12 months in advance to secure your desired date, I can help you with the permit process.

Why: Yosemite requires a Special Use Permit for all ceremonies to ensure minimal impact on the environment and other visitors.
How: Apply through the National Park Service’s Special Use Permit Office. Submit your application at least 6 months in advance, as processing can take time. Permit fee is $150.

Review Park Regulations

Ensure you’re aware of all park rules, including those on guest limits, ceremony setup, and use of decorations. The regulations are in place to preserve the park’s natural beauty and ensure visitor safety.

2. Choosing Your Location

Seasonal Considerations: Yosemite’s weather varies greatly by season, especially during the winter months. Summer and early fall are popular due to the mild weather, but can be crowded. Spring offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds, while winter provides a tranquil, snowy wonderland. Check road and trail conditions for seasonal closures.

Avoiding Crowds: You’ll want to find a secluded spot for your elopement which is why I recommend tying the knot in a popular destination in the off season. Yosemite is more crowded during the summer months. I would recommend spring/early summer or after Labor Day as the crowds start to fizzle out. Fall is a gorgeous time of year, October is perfect for that! Also, try to go for a weekday for your elopement so you can avoid crowds that way too! Another idea is to find a secluded spot in the forest which is very possible, we just have to stay on the trails!

Tunnel View – Yosemite National Park (Yosemite Valley)

Popular Places to Elope in Yosemite

Glacier Point: Offers panoramic views of the valley and Half Dome. Ideal for dramatic and sweeping photos. Accessible by car, but reservations are often required.
Tunnel View: Known for its iconic view of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome. Best for sunrise or sunset ceremonies.
Mariposa Grove: Home to towering giant sequoias. Perfect for a forested, majestic setting.
Yosemite Valley: Locations like El Capitan Meadow, Tunnel View, or the area near Bridalveil Falls provide classic Yosemite backdrops.
Secluded Areas: For a more intimate experience, explore lesser-known spots or off-the-beaten-path areas. Just make sure to respect park regulations and stay on designated trails.

Accessibility

Choose a location based on how easily it can be reached by you and your guests. Some spots are more accessible than others.

3. Marriage License

Your marriage license needs to be obtained in the state where your ceremony will take place. If traveling from out of state, you will need to visit any county recorder’s office in the state. If you live in California, you have plenty of time to obtain your marriage license at a county clerk office near you.

California: The nearest office to Yosemite National Park is Mariposa County Clerk’s Office. You can a pply online ahead of time, but you will likely need to make an appointment to appear in person to pick up your marriage license. Most counties will have a similar process. Fees are different for each county so you’ll want to double check on the county’s website. There is no waiting period once you obtain your marriage license, however, it does expire after 90 days, so make sure to use it!

4. Planning Your Date and Time

Best Times to Visit

Spring (April – June): Waterfalls are at their peak, and wildflowers bloom.
Fall (September – November): Fewer crowds and stunning autumn colors.
Winter (December – March): Less crowded but potentially snowy; verify road conditions.

Optimal Time of Day

Morning: Fewer crowds and beautiful sunrise light.
Late Afternoon: Golden hour offers warm, flattering light.

5. Prepare for the Elements

Weather Conditions

Backup Plans: Have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather conditions. Don’t worry, I will help you!
Winter is tricky and can unpredictable! Just be prepared for whatever Mother Nature may throw at you and if you are planning to elope in the winter, pick a location that will still be accessible in the snow.

Planning your Attire

Weather Considerations: Dress appropriately for the season because it does matter, you don’t just want to “wing it.” Layers are essential for winter, while summer might call for lighter, breathable fabrics. During the winter months, you will want to be prepared with those extra layers, trust me!
Footwear: Pick comfortable shoes, especially if you’re venturing into nature. Choose something practical for hiking or walking on uneven terrain because you want your feet to be happy! Also, you can always bring a backpack with your wedding shoes to throw on once we get to the elopement or photo spot!

6. Traveling to Yosemite National Park

Lodging (Inside the Park): From luxury resorts to cozy cabins, Yosemite National Park offers a range of accommodations. I stress to book early, especially during peak seasons because Yosemite is a very popular destination. For options inside the park, you can check out Yosemite Valley Lodge and The Ahwahnee. Book as early as possible.
Lodging (Outside the Park): Rush Creek Lodge is the closest hotel to the Yosemite National Park entrance off Hwy 120. You can also check out nearby towns like Mariposa, Oakhurst, and Groveland offer additional lodging options.
Travel: Consider how you and your guests (if any) will get to and from your chosen location. Plan for transportation if your ceremony spot is remote.
Flights: Be sure to book your airfare early as well! The closest airport to get to Yosemite National Park is the Fresno-Yosemite International Airport located in Fresno, California. Traveling to Curry Village in Yosemite Valley from the Fresno airport takes 2.5 hours with no traffic. Traveling to Wawona side of Yosemite National Park (Wawona Hotel) takes 1.5 hours.

7. Vendors

Research: Look for a team of vendors who specialize in elopements and can take the stress away. That’s where I come in! I can help you with your planning process, help you create your vision board, styling, timeline assistance, vendor referral, everything you need to plan your elopement. Permits do need to be reserved by the couple at this time, but I can guide you through the process and give you the steps to get there. I make things easy, your elopement should be stress free, that is the whole reason you’ve decided to take this route!

Photographer

Hire an expert who has knowledge and knows the best locations for lighting in Yosemite. Firstly, you will want to hire a photographer that will make your dream photos become a reality. Since you are eloping in one of the most popular locations in the World, your photos should be a top priority. It is best to hire a photographer that will photograph and plan your elopement.. this is where I can help you!
Generally, with a location like Yosemite, you would want to book a “Sunrise to Sunset” elopement package to take advantage of the entire park. We can begin the day at Tunnel View, then finish at Taft Point for sunset!
Go big, go for it, and book the videographer too! I know a wonderful videographer, so just let me know if you need a referral.
Since Yosemite has a lot to offer, you will want to come up with a location plan. This is something that I will prepare for you after finding out your vibe and vision for photos.

Flowers and Decor

Local Florists: Obviously you will want flowers! Work with a florist who can create arrangements that match your vision and the environment. The right color palette matters! Light colored flowers, neutrals, whites, light blues, compliment the scenery of Yosemite, so that is something you’ll want to think about too!
Minimal Decor: You don’t need a ton of décor which is why you choose to elope in Yosemite right? While having a ton a decor may seem desirable, you’ll want to embrace the natural beauty of Yosemite! I would suggest minimal decor to complement the surroundings rather than overwhelm them. Instead of having a ton of decor, focus on your bouquet since it will be in the photos!

Officiant

California Regulations:
California requires an officiant to sign your marriage license. You can have a friend or family member perform your ceremony. California requires one witness, they must be over 18, so I can be your witness if needed! Did you know that you can ask any of your vendors to sign, or even find someone at your elopement location to sign your marriage license!?

Local Officiants: Look for local officiants who are familiar with the area and can help with permits.
Personal Connection: Another option is, if you have a friend or family member who’s ordained, they can officiate your ceremony with proper documentation. If you need to have someone get ordained, hop on Universal Life Church, it’s so easy!

8. Celebration and Activities

Post Ceremony Celebration

Enjoy a special meal or a relaxing evening at one of the park’s dining options or a nearby restaurant.

Activities

Yosemite is popular for hiking! If you are avid hikers, check out some trails.
Rock climbers? Then you already know the hot spots in Yosemite for rock climbers.
Relax in an intertube and float down the Merced River through Yosemite Valley while taking in the surroundings.
Take the bus around the valley and spend time exploring Yosemite’s diverse landscapes, from the towering cliffs to the serene meadows.
Bike rides – you can rent bicycles in Curry Village. First come first serve, so plan ahead!
Pack a lunch and sit in a quiet meadow and see if you can spot wildlife. Afterwards, take a dip in the Merced River because you can!

Yosemite Elopement Guide Tips

Visit Beforehand: Not everyone can I get it, but if possible, visit Yosemite before your elopement to scout locations and meet with vendors.
Your Vendors Matter: Be sure to hire the right vendors that you connect with as you will be communicating and spending time with them, especially on your elopement day! You’ll know when you find the right ones!
Relax and Enjoy: Remember, the essence of elopement is intimacy and personal connection. Focus on what makes the day special for you both and remember, I make it fun!

With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to planning a magical elopement in Yosemite National Park! I hope this Yosemite Elopement Guide has helped you get started.

If you still need assistance with your elopement or don’t know where to begin, please get in touch with me!