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How to Elope in Yosemite National Park
I’m Kristin, a California elopement photographer and planner who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.
Eloping in Yosemite National Park is simpler than most couples expect, but there are a few park-specific details to know before you start planning.
This page walks you through the permit requirements, ceremony locations, and planning basics so you can elope in Yosemite with confidence, without the overwhelm.
Eloping in Yosemite National Park is one of the most breathtaking ways to get married and it’s more approachable than many couples expect.
Instead of traditional venues, eloping in Yosemite is about understanding a few key park guidelines, choosing the right ceremony location, and planning around permits, timing, and logistics. Once those pieces are in place, the rest of the experience feels simple, intentional, and incredibly meaningful.
Eloping in Yosemite:
What You Need to Know
Is Eloping Legal in Yosemite?
Eloping in Yosemite doesn’t mean skipping the important parts,
it simply means choosing a more intentional, intimate way to get married.
I’m a Yosemite elopement photographer and planner for couples who want a wedding day that feels intentional, relaxed, and genuinely fun.
I don’t just show up with a camera, I help you plan your elopement from the beginning. From talking through locations and logistics to building a timeline that flows, I’m there to guide you, cheer you on, fix your dress, and keep the day feeling calm and easy.
I care about what lights you two up and what makes your connection yours, and I help create an elopement day that feels like it was made just for you.
I specialize in elopements across Yosemite and California, and help couples navigate the planning process without it feeling overwhelming.
Hey, I'm Kristin!
"We really wanted someone that was going to make our pictures fun while taking them and that’s exactly what we got."
- Hailie & Justin
Marriage License Requirements for Eloping in Yosemite
Where to Get a Marriage License in California
To elope in Yosemite National Park, you’ll need a valid California marriage license issued by any California county clerk.
You can apply for your marriage license at any county clerk’s office in California, regardless of where your ceremony will take place.
Many counties offer online applications and appointments, which makes the process especially easy for couples traveling in from out of state or internationally. You’ll just want to plan this step within your travel timeline so everything stays stress-free.
How Long a California Marriage License Is Valid
A California marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date it’s issued.
This means your Yosemite ceremony must take place within that 90-day window. If you’re planning travel, lodging, or permits around a specific date, it’s best to time your license appointment accordingly.
Do You Need to Be a California Resident?
No — you do not need to live in California or be a U.S. resident to elope in Yosemite.
Out-of-state and international couples can legally get married in California as long as they obtain a valid marriage license and follow the required steps.
You can apply for your marriage license at any county clerk’s office in California.
Do You Need an Officiant or Witnesses to Elope in Yosemite?
Witness Requirements for Eloping in Yosemite
- Public marriage license: Requires one witness
- Confidential marriage license: Requires no witnesses
Who Can Officiate an Elopement in Yosemite?
- A professional officiant
- A religious officiant
- A friend or family member who becomes legally ordained
- A photographer or planner who is legally ordained
As long as your officiant is properly ordained and your paperwork is completed correctly, your Yosemite elopement will be fully legal.
Eloping in Yosemite National Park follows California marriage laws, which means an officiant is required.
Where Can You Elope in Yosemite National Park?
One of the biggest reasons couples choose Yosemite National Park for their elopement is the sheer beauty and variety of landscapes.
Rather than traditional venues, Yosemite elopements take place in designated outdoor locations approved by the park.
- Designated Yosemite ceremony locations
- Meadow and forest settings approved by the park
- River and lakeside areas (where permitted)
- Scenic viewpoints and overlooks
- Select trails or trail-adjacent locations
Many couples choose Yosemite elopement locations that feel peaceful, scenic, and immersed in nature — focusing less on décor or setup, and more on the experience of being fully present in one of the most iconic places in the world.
Yes — a permit is required to elope in
Yosemite National Park.
Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Yosemite?
Yosemite Elopement Permits Are Required For:
- All wedding and elopement ceremonies
- Designated ceremony locations within the park
- Elopements with or without guests
Permit requirements are not based on guest count alone — even intimate, just-the-two-of-you elopements still need a permit.
The good news? Yosemite elopement permits are much simpler than most couples expect. The application process is straightforward, and once approved, you’ll know exactly where and when your ceremony can take place.
Planning permits early helps avoid last-minute stress and keeps your elopement respectful to the land — so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.
A permit is required to elope in Yosemite National Park and they are super easy to get.
When Is the Best Time to Elope in Yosemite?
Best Seasons for Eloping in Yosemite
- Spring (April–June):
Snowmelt, dramatic waterfalls, fewer crowds early in the season. Some higher-elevation areas and roads may still be closed depending on snowpack. - Summer (July–September):
Full park access, warm days, alpine locations open — but also the busiest time of year. Early mornings and weekdays are ideal for a quieter experience. - Fall (October–November):
Fewer crowds, crisp air, golden tones in the meadows. Some services and roads begin to close, and weather can shift quickly. - Winter (December–March):
Snowy landscapes, peaceful atmosphere, and a truly intimate feel. Access is limited to lower elevations, and winter conditions require flexibility and planning.
Weather Considerations by Region
This is where thoughtful planning matters most — choosing the right season and location combination helps ensure your elopement feels relaxed, safe, and aligned with the experience you’re dreaming of.
Each season in Yosemite offers something completely different, which is part of what makes it such a special place to elope.
- Spring (April–June):
- Summer (July–September):
- Fall (October–November):
- Winter (December–March):
What Does an Elopement Day Look Like in Yosemite?
- Get ready slowly and enjoy a quiet, intentional morning
- Explore one or more scenic locations within the park
- Exchange vows in a peaceful, designated ceremony spot
- Take time to soak it all in — no rushing
- Celebrate with a toast, picnic, or sunset moment
Elopements aren’t rushed.
The goal is to create space for connection, presence, and meaning.
Instead of being tied to one venue or timeline, Yosemite elopements are designed to flow with the day, the light, and the landscape.
How to Start Planning Your Yosemite Elopement
- Choose a general area or type of scenery within Yosemite
- Get familiar with the legal basics and permit requirements
- Get guidance on ceremony locations, logistics, and timing
- Build a relaxed timeline that allows room to breathe and be present
You don’t need to have every detail figured out to begin —
just a direction.
Ready to Elope in Yosemite?
If Yosemite feels like the right place to get married and you want guidance through the process, working with someone who truly understands Yosemite elopements can make everything feel a lot easier.
From choosing the right ceremony location and navigating permits to creating a relaxed timeline and guiding the flow of the day, having support allows you to focus on what actually matters — the two of you and the experience you’re creating together.
So You're Ready to Elope in Yosemite,
Now Let’s Make It Easy
You understand the process of what it takes to elope in Yosemite National Park, the next step is having someone in your corner to help make it all feel simple and stress-free.
This isn’t just photography.
this an experience built around the two of you!
The laughter, the quiet moments, the adventure
are captured beautifully and wrapped in a stress-free,
red-carpet process from start to finish.
Planning Support: Location scouting, permits, timelines, vendor recommendations — I handle all the behind-the-scenes details so you can focus on what matters most: each other.
Creative Touches: From faux florals and color palettes to the tiny details that make your day look and feel cohesive, I’ll help design your setup so it’s both beautiful and stress-free.
Faux Florals: Custom faux florals are included with every elopement. I’ll help you choose a bouquet and boutonnière that match your colors, location, and vibe — no wilting, no stress, and they photograph beautifully in every season.
Picnic, Cake, & Toast: Celebrate your “just married” moment with a cozy picnic setup, a mini cake, and a bubbly toast (non-alcoholic options available!). It’s the perfect way to slow down and take it all in together.
Two Photographers (Add-on): When you want full coverage, my husband Rick joins me — capturing your day from every angle so nothing goes unseen.
Day-Of Coordination: I’ll keep your day running smoothly from start to finish so you don’t have to think twice about what’s next.
Sneak Peeks & Final Gallery: A handful of teasers within 24 hours (because I know you’ll be dying to relive it), and your full gallery delivered within 45 days — filled with images that bring it all rushing back.
the experience
Take a peek at what I offer to make your elopement experience easy, intentional, and actually enjoyable.
"Kristin is a true professional!
She provided us with the most magical day. We cannot thank her enough for the AMAZING memories she has captured not only for us but for our families. If you are questioning booking with her… DO IT!!!!"
- Nikki and Trevor
Create your Yosemite elopement with me
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Kristin Smith Photography
Kristin is a Northern California elopement photographer who helps couples plan and photograph intentional, stress-free elopements in places like Lake Tahoe, Yosemite and epic California locations.
From location guidance and timelines to documenting the day itself, I’m here to make the entire experience feel relaxed, meaningful, and easy.
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