How to Elope in Yosemite
How to Elope in Yosemite
a step-by-step guide to help you plan your elopement or wedding in yosemite national park
How to Elope in Yosemite
How to Elope in Yosemite
a step-by-step guide to help you plan your wedding or elopement in yosemite national park
If you've never been to Yosemite before, or even if you're just considering getting married here, there's a few things that you should be desiring from your wedding day if a Yosemite elopement is going to the be the best choice for you. I've helped plan lots of elopements here, so let me share all my insider tips with you! Welcome to my guide on how to elope in Yosemite!
So You're Considering eloping in Yosemite, but you're not sure how to start planning
if you choose to elope in yosemite, then you value...
intimacy & intentionality
being in nature/the outdoors
making your day about you two
leaving behind the traditonal
shared experiences > a big party
- The people you want to include
- The time of the year/season you want to get married.
- The framework of your day; how much time you want to spend celebrating together, and what you want to do with that time.
Examples:
I would love to wear a dress with sleeves, but I want peak waterflow in the park for the waterfalls. I'm thinking I'd prefer if the temperature was milder, maybe in the 50s-70s. (April-May)
I've always dreamed of a winter wedding in the snow! (Yosemite usually gets the brunt of it's snow in the middle of winter: January/February).
Examples: I have always wanted to get married underneath a raging waterfall in Yosemite but I don't want to have to hike far. (Yosemite Falls/Bridal Veil).
I've seen some gorgeous panoramic views at Yosemite, I want something with a view! (Tunnel View, Taft Point, Glacier Point).
I would love something more intimate, maybe by a body of water. (Cathedral Beach, Tenaya Lake).
I'm imagining exchanging vows in a meadow with a beautiful view of sights in the Yosemite Valley. (Swinging Bridge, El Capitan Meadow, Cooks Meadow)
Defining Your Elopement Vision
Will Help You Decide On
3 Important Things
What type of weather are you imagining for your day?
What type of location/backdrop are you dreaming about
Examples:
I want to spend my elopement day exploring and adventuring different places in Yosemite with my partner, maybe including some fun activities together during summertime so we can enjoy an outdoor picnic and a boat ride on the lake.
I'm envisioning a small ceremony with just a few of our close family members, along with a small celebration at our AirBnB after we spend a few hours in the park together.
What do you want your wedding day to feel like or look like?
Ask yourself these questions, and then get clear on the answers.
When folks ask me how to elope in Yosemite, I tell them this: Before you start worrying about figuring out the details of your day, like when and where your ceremony might take place, you must take a step back and get clear on the overall vision for your day. Start by dreaming up your perfect wedding day.
Start by Defining Your Elopement Vision
step 1:
With your vision now clearly defined, you’ve laid the foundation for a seamless and memorable elopement in Yosemite.
Whether you imagine an intimate moment beneath towering sequoias or a breathtaking ceremony with Half Dome as your backdrop, every detail will come together to create your perfect day. The next step? Bringing your vision to life with the right team of vendors who can turn your dreams into reality. Let’s dive into how to find the perfect professionals to support your Yosemite elopement.
...you’ve laid the foundation for a seamless and memorable elopement in Yosemite. Whether you imagine an intimate moment beneath towering sequoias or a breathtaking ceremony with Half Dome as your backdrop, every detail will come together to create your perfect day. The next step? Bringing your vision to life with the right team of vendors who can turn your dreams into reality. Let’s dive into how to find the perfect professionals to support your Yosemite elopement.
with your elopement vision now clearly defined...
Finding Great Yosemite Vendors
take my advice..
here are some of my
best tips regarding vendors
step 2:
Shop Local
Yosemite may be a remote area, but that doesn't mean there aren't many great local vendors in the nearby towns who would be willing and grateful to travel to the park for your special day! We recommend looking for vendors in the local areas of Sonora, Groveland, Mariposa, or Oakhurst first.
Many of the wedding vendors in these small areas are small-town folk who rely on your business! So they are usually super friendly and can't wait to serve you. Here are a few of our personal favorites...
if you choose them, we can deliver
As an elopement photographer who’s lucky enough to live near Yosemite, and works there regularly, I’ve got a small piece of advice: don’t skimp on budgeting for a solid photographer.
Since most intimate elopements include just the two of you, your photos become even more important. You’ll want to find someone who truly understands you as a couple and aligns with your vision for the day. Bonus if they’re familiar with Yosemite and can use their local knowledge to your advantage!
It’s also key to choose a photographer who won’t take over your day but will support your plans and help bring your dreams to life.
florals
cakes
If you're not a fan of the above vendors, and couldn't find something you love, you can always try finding vendors in one of the closest major cities, like Fresno, Modesto, or Sacramento, maybe even the Bay Area, and then picking it up and bringing it with you, but I'd save that as a last resort! If you love Yosemite then it really helps support the area to try and stay local!
a note on photography
if you choose them, we can deliver
hair/makeup
bonus tip: hire your photographer first
It might seem strange to hire an elopement photographer before you have everything else figured out, but here's why you should.
A good Yosemite elopement photographer is going to be able to help you with the rest of the planning. They will have had lots of experience with working here and can help you by providing you with the resources, knowlege and insider tips you need in
order to plan a Yosemite elopement that will go off without a hitch. Additionally, a good photographer will have experience with other vendors that are comfortable traveling to Yosemite. Interested in working with me? Let me introduce myself!
It might seem strange to hire an elopement photographer before you have everything else figured out, but here's why you should.
A good Yosemite elopement photographer is going to be able to help you with the rest of the planning. They will have had lots of experience with working here and can help you by providing you with the resources, knowlege and insider tips you need in order to plan a Yosemite elopement or wedding that will go off without a hitch.
Additionally, a good photographer will also have experience with other vendors that are comfortable traveling to Yosemite. Since I myself am a Yosemite Photographer, I want to share some more about the vendors I love but first, let me introduce myself!
hiring a yosemite elopement photographer should be your very next step after defining your vision
As your photographer, I’m not just taking your pictures—I’m your planner, guide, and adventure buddy. On the big day, I’ll be right there to capture everything: the epic moments, the journey, stillness, the laughs and all the fun stuff that makes your adventure uniquely yours.
My goal is to capture you just as you are—completely yourselves, in your element, while sharing authentic moments of love. I specialize in a combination of documentary elopement photography, as well as using some prompting to help take the awkwardness out of taking photos together. I always aim to capture the genuine moments as they unfold as well as helping you plan a day that’s perfectly tailored to you. When you look back at your photos, you'll get to relive all the feelings you felt on your special day.
Hi, I’m Salisha!
inquire
You might be choosing to elope because the idea of a big wedding feels overwhelming, costly, or maybe even both. That’s why I’m here: to make sure your elopement is as easy, meaningful, and stress-free as it can be.
Here’s what’s included in all my packages:
I'm more than just a yosemite elopement photographer, I'll help you plan it too!
- 50+ page yosemite location guide
- 50+ page yosemite elopement planning guide
- 50+ page yosemite location guide
- 50+ page yosemite elopement planning guide
- vendor recommendations
- lodging recommendations
- help with obtaining wedding permit
- timeline building
- marriage license help
- officiant services
- vendor recommendations
- lodging recommendations
- help with obtaining wedding permit timeline building
- marriage license help
- officiant services
7+ years photographing in yosemite
30+ sessions photographed in yosemite
over 100k images captured in yosemite
yosemite local and locations expert
70+ 5-star reviews from happy clients
Trust Me, I've Got Your Back
When planning the areas you want to spend your elopement day, you may decide on one or two locations that are easily accessible, may not require much effort to hike to, within a relatively close distance from each other, which makes things simple and means little time spent traveling within the park, which is a plus!
Others of you may have your heart set on 2 or more locations that happen to be a bit of distance away from each other, and that's great too! Just plan into your day to spend some time traveling, adventuring, and exploring Yosemite's beauty together! I honestly prefer that my couples get to experience all the lovely places that Yosemite has to offer, because it creates such a special day full of memories to look back on. Each Yosemite elopement is unique, so it's important for you to craft your day, and the locations you choose with care and intentionality. Remember, this day is only going to happen once, so make the most of it, and choose a spot the spot of your dreams, no regrets!!
When planning the areas you want to spend your elopement day, you may decide on one or two locations that are easily accessible, may not require much effort to hike to, within a relatively close distance from each other, which makes things simple and means little time spent traveling within the park, which is a plus!
Others of you may have your heart set on 2 or more locations that happen to be a bit of distance away from each other, and that's great too! Just plan into your day to spend some time traveling, adventuring, and exploring Yosemite's beauty together! I honestly prefer that my couples get to experience all the lovely places that Yosemite has to offer, because it creates such a special day full of memories to look back on. Each Yosemite elopement is unique, so it's important for you to craft your day, and the locations you choose with care and intentionality. Remember, this day is only going to happen once, so make the most of it, so make sure to choose the spot of your dreams, no regrets!!
After you've chosen your photographer and started dreaming up your day, it's time to start looking at locations. Planning your Yosemite elopement location isn't just about where you'll have your vow exchange or wedding ceremony, it's also about crafting a day of exploring the park together.
The most common misconception that couples have regarding Yosemite is that all the popular landmarks, waterfalls, and rock formations must be super close to each other, but that's actually false. While Yosemite Valley has a lot to hold, the park itself is a huge region, and some spots can be an hour or more drive from each other, while others may require a long hike. We recommend finding a good balance between the locations you must visit, as well as the amount of time you want to spend traveling.
After you've chosen your photographer and started dreaming up your day, it's time to start looking at locations. Planning your Yosemite elopement location isn't just about where you'll have your vow exchange or wedding ceremony, it's also about crafting a day of exploring the park together.
The most common misconception that couples have regarding Yosemite is that all the popular landmarks, waterfalls, and rock formations must be super close to each other, but that's actually false. While Yosemite Valley has a lot to hold, the park itself is a huge region, and some spots can be an hour or more drive from each other, while others may require a long hike. We recommend finding a good balance between the locations you must visit, as well as the amount of time you want to spend traveling.
Choose Locations
step 3:
Location distance within yosemite
this day is
once-in-a-lifetime
Top Places to Elope in Yosemite National Park
keep scrolling!
drumroll...
Top Places to Elope in Yosemite National Park
Cathedral Beach is a day-use area located along the banks of the Merced River, with spectactular views of El Capitan, as well as the Cathedral Spires. This was actually the first location that I shot a Yosemite Wedding, and a great spot if you have a larger guest count (up to 50 people).
Because of the location being right next to the river that runs swiftly during winter/early spring, this area is closed from November through Memorial Day Weekend, but on occasion can open up a bit earlier if conditions aren't hazardous. Pit restrooms are located nearby if nature calls!
- Parking can be limited during summer
- Tourists often stop here to take a dip in the water.
- Great views of El Capitan, especially at Sunrise.
- Easy to access, doesn't require a hike.
- The banks of the river are spacious when the water levels lower in late summer/early fall.
things to remember
no. 5
If you're looking for a jaw-dropping spot for your wedding photos, then few things can beat the raw power and stunning beauty of lower Yosemite Falls. During peak spring runoff Yosemite Falls can dump up to 2,400 gallons of water over the upper falls, which comes cascading down into the lower falls area.
There are few things that can match the sheer power and feeling of standing at the base of the tallest waterfall in North America. I promise this will be a moment you won't soon forget! Just make sure you're prepared to get wet!
things to remember
- Breathtaking view of the lower falls.
- Tourism is heavy in this location so expect crowds
- The waterfall often dries up from August-late October
- The rocks in the falls viewing area can be super slick; be careful!
- Peak waterfall occurs usually sometime from late April-June; come prepared to get wet, and bring something to dry off with.
Lower Yosemite falls
Lower Yosemite falls
no. 4
Swinging Bridge, is another location located along the Merced River which offers a charming and intimate setting for your special day. Perfect for small gatherings of up to 20 people, this spot is especially stunning in the spring when everything is lush and vibrant. Keep in mind, ceremonies can’t be held directly on the bridge, but the nearby beach offers a lovely alternative. Note that restroom facilities are basic and parking is limited, so carpooling is a must. Definitely can't beat the views of Yosemite Falls and the Valley!
things to remember
- Super accessible and spacious.
- Open year round for ceremonies, except on holiday weekends.
- The view is underwhelming when the falls dries, so we don't recommend it during late summer/fall.
- You're not really supposed to walk in the meadow, so if you do, so we always make sure stick to areas that are already traversed by the deer/wildlife.
Swinging Bridge
no. 3
This stunning spot offers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra, making it an unforgettable setting for your vows. Keep in mind, Glacier Point is only easily accessible when Glacier Point Road is open, typically from late May to early November. Outside this window, snow closes the road, making access challenging. For a serene ceremony with breathtaking scenery, plan your elopement during these months. And remember, the early morning light of sunrise will give you the most magical photos and a quieter, more intimate experience.
things to remember
- Gorgeous Panoramic views
- Easily accessible when the road is open.
- Heavy crowds during the summer
- Gorgeous at Sunrise
- Highly recommend this location for a weekday at Sunrise after school is back in session (late Aug-October).
Glacier Point
Glacier Point
no. 2
Taft Point towers 2,000 feet over the valley floor and offers incredible views of Yosemite Valley, Merced River, and El Capitan. To reach Taft Point, you'll need to tackle a short 1.1-mile one-way hike at an elevation of 7,000 feet. Due to the altitude, this hike can be more strenuous than a typical 1-mile trail, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with higher elevations. If you’re prone to altitude sickness or prefer not to hike, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re up for the adventure, the views are truly worth it! Keep in mind sunsets are the best lighting at this spot and make for epic shots, but just make sure you're prepared to hike back in the dark, and bring flashlights or a headlamp!
things to remember
- Breathtaking views of the Valley.
- Best for sunsets.
- 2.2 mile round trip hike at elevation.
- Road closed during winter (Nov-May)
- Bug spray is a MUST!
- Often less crowded than Glacier Point due to the hike, but still expect to have competition due to its rising popularity with elopement couples.
TAFT POINT
no. 1
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention how much of an impact that the time of year can in your Yosemite elopement experience and the scenery you’ll get to enjoy.
If you’re dreaming of tying the knot at iconic spots like Glacier Point or Taft Point, keep in mind that these areas are closed from sometime in November through May due to snow. Winter road closures also occur on the Tioga Pass which will affect your ability
If Yosemite Falls is a must-see for your wedding, the best time to visit is from late spring to early summer. This is when the falls are at their most impressive, fueled by snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada. By late summer and early fall, the flow tends to dwindle, and the falls may not be as spectacular.
to visit places like Tenaya Lake or Tuolumne Meadows. To stay on the safe side if you're planning on including some of these high-altitude locations, plan to elope between June and October. However, you also should be prepared for more visitors during these months, as Yosemite’s tourism peaks.
To dodge the crowds and enjoy a more intimate setting, consider eloping on a weekday from August to October. As the summer vacationers head back to their routines, Yosemite becomes a bit quieter, offering a more serene backdrop for your vows. Whether you’re captivated by the majestic falls or the stunning sunrise, Yosemite’s varied seasons provide a perfect canvas for your unforgettable elopement.
Seasonal Impact on
Yosemite Elopement Locations
Seasonal Impact on Yosemite Elopement Locations
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention how much of an impact that the time of year can have on your Yosemite elopement experience and the scenery you’ll get to enjoy.
If you’re dreaming of tying the knot at iconic spots like Glacier Point or Taft Point, keep in mind that these areas are closed from sometime in November through May due to snow. Winter road closures also occur on the Tioga Pass, which will affect your ability to visit places like Tenaya Lake or Tuolumne Meadows. To stay on the safe side if you're planning on including some of these high-altitude locations, aim to elope between June and October. However, you also should be prepared for more visitors during these months, as Yosemite’s tourism peaks.
If Yosemite Falls is a must-see for your wedding day, the best time to visit is from late spring to early summer. This is when the falls are at their most impressive, fueled by snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada. By late summer and early fall, the flow tends to dwindle, and the falls may not be as spectacular.
To dodge the crowds and enjoy a more intimate setting, consider eloping on a weekday from August to October. As the summer vacationers head back to their routines, Yosemite becomes a bit quieter, offering a more serene backdrop for your vows. Whether you’re captivated by the majestic falls or the stunning sunrise, Yosemite’s varied seasons provide a perfect canvas for your unforgettable elopement.
It’s crucial to make sure your Yosemite elopement is legal, no matter where in the park you choose to say "I do."
First, you’ll need a permit in order to have a wedding ceremony inside the park. You can find detailed info and the application form here. The permit typically costs $150 to secure your date. Once we have the permit, we’ll be set to go, and we’ll have the official green light from the park rangers to proceed.
Next you need to make sure to obtain a marriage license within the state of California. If you're traveling from outside the state then we recommend picking up your marriage license from an office close to Yosemite which would mean visiting one of the following county clerks offices in Madera, Tuolumne, or Mariposa county.
Next you'll need an officiant, we recommend having a friend or family member become ordained, or you can use me! I'm officiated to perform ceremonies, which means I will "oversee" you two in more of a self-solemnization type of ceremony and be able to legally sign the paperwork as your officiant. You'll still need a witness (I can bring an assistant), or you can apply for a confidential marriage license to forgo having a witness.
Remember, keeping things legal is key. Without the proper paperwork, you risk potential issues, and we definitely want to avoid that. So, let’s get those permits sorted and make sure everything’s in order for your big day!
It’s crucial to make sure your Yosemite elopement is legal, no matter where in the park you choose to say "I do."
First, you’ll need a permit in order to have a wedding ceremony inside the park. You can find detailed info and the application form here. The permit typically costs $150 to secure your date. Once we have the permit, we’ll be good to go, and we’ll have the official green light from the park rangers to proceed.
Next you need to make sure to obtain a marriage license within the state of California. If you're traveling from outside the state then we recommend picking up your marriage license from an office close to Yosemite which would mean visiting the county clerk's office in Madera, Tuolumne, or Mariposa county.
Next you'll need an officiant, we recommend having a friend or family member become ordained, or you can use me! I'm officiated to perform ceremonies, which means I will oversee you two in more of a self-solemnization type of ceremony and be able to legally sign the paperwork as your officiant. You'll still need a witness (I can bring an assistant), or you can apply for a confidential marriage license to forgo having a witness. If you want more of a traditional ceremony then you can find a list of officiants here.
Remember, keeping things legal is key. Without the proper paperwork, you risk potential issues, and we definitely want to avoid that. So, let’s get those permits sorted and make sure everything’s in order for your big day!
step 4:
Making it Legal
Waterfall Elopement with a dog witness and Taft Point sunset
Yosemite Valley Elopement at Swinging Bridge and Lower Yosemite Falls
swinging bridge yosemite elopeemnt
Full day elopement at Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Taft Point at Sunset
dreamy yosemite elopement
YOSEMITE secret waterfall elopement
Recent Yosemite Elopements
1. apply for your permit in advance
1. apply for your permit in advance
Final Takeaway for Planning Your Yosemite Elopement
If you’re planning on staying at the closest places (within an hour drive) then know that these spots fill up quickly. Most folks don’t realize that most of the hotels are an hour or more outside the park, so the few that are inside the park or fairly close, book sometimes up to a year in advance. For folks who don’t mind a bit more of a drive (1.5 hours) and are wanting a bit more convenience and amenities such as great dining and shopping then we recommend staying in Sonora. Read more about staying in Sonora, or our favorite Yosemite lodging.
If you’ve never visited Yosemite I bet you imagine coming to the mountains to escape people, but Yosemite actually draws a substantial amount of visitors, and each year it seems to increase! For this reason we recommend dodging the masses by planning your ceremony at sunrise, if privacy and intimacy is something that’s important to you. Sunrises offer some privacy, in addition to spectacular views, and then you have the remainder of the day to explore and celebrate together!
Yosemite National Park covers nearly 1,200 square miles! There are so many hidden gems and neat off-the-beaten-path locations that only Yosemite experts know! Plus, with so much ground to cover, certain popular landmarks within the park can actually be quite far from each other, so working with someone who can come up with an accurate estimate of what you can fit into one day is absolutely essential! I’ve been a frequent visitor of the park since childhood, which means over 30 years now, so I’m happy to help you with the knowledge I’ve obtained from all these years of exploring my backyard.
2. Book your stay ahead of time
2. Book your stay ahead of time
Most folks imagine the mountains as a cool place to escape the summer heat, but as a Yosemite local I can tell you, summers here can get HOT, not to mention, it’s one of the busiest times of the year to visit the park which means dealing with additional park reservations, crowds, and parking difficulties. I always tell my brides that late-spring (April-June) and early-mid fall (October) are some of the best times to plan your big day for mild temperatures and to avoid snowstorms that make travel difficult. Also keep in mind that winter storms can also close the park for days at a time so keep that in mind if you’re envisioning a winter wedding. We actually just had a park closure due to a blizzard in March of 2024, and oftentimes we get quite a lot of snow in February-March so keep that in mind!
3. ELOPE IN SPRING OR FALL
3. ELOPE IN SPRING OR FALL
4. plan a sunrise ceremony
5. hire Someone Experienced
"SHE MAKES YOU FEEL LIKE YOU'VE KNOWN HER FOR AGES"
"Salisha is AMAZING! We were looking for a Yosemite elopement photographer to capture our special day and I am beyond grateful that we chose to work with Salisha at Storybook Photography. My husband and I never take photos but she worked her magic and the photos came out better than I could have ever imagined. Salisha was such a pleasure to work with, I couldn’t have asked for a better photographer. She really makes you feel like you’ve known her for ages. She’s also a PRO at posing you if you’re not quite sure how to pose. She has such a creative eye and will think up shots that end up turning out amazing. I can't express my gratitude enough."
- ashley & daniel
i 100% recommend booking with salisha
I found Salisha on Instagram while browsing for elopements in the Yosemite area. She responded so quickly to my inquiry and helped us so much along the way. What stood out to me the most is she does it all. She helped me pick beautiful locations, took amazing photos, was our minister and she helped us plan the day around bringing our pup. The day went smoothly and she was so kind. Not only do I recommend eloping in Yosemite, I 100% recommend booking with her.
-bryanna & alex
"salisha feels like your best friend right when you meet her"
"Salisha is AMAZING!! My husband surprised me with bridal pictures in Yosemite for our honeymoon and this was the highlight of our honeymoon for sure! Salisha is not only a photographer, but feels like your best friend right when you meet her! She’s one of a kind photographer who was willing to hike to Taft Point with us for the perfect picture AND even hiked back with us after dark! She went the extra mile (quite literally) for us to get some of the most stunning pictures!! These pictures we will cherish for many many years to come and we are so glad we chose Salisha to document this special moment in our lives!"
-kensie & luke
"we couldn't have asked for a better photographer"
"Salisha is AMAZING! We were looking for a Yosemite elopement photographer to capture our special day and I am beyond grateful that we chose to work with Salisha at Storybook Photography.
My husband and I never take photos but she worked her magic and the photos came out better than I could have ever imagined. Salisha was such a pleasure to work with, I couldn’t have asked for a better photographer. She really makes you feel like you’ve known her for ages. She’s also a PRO at posing you if you’re not quite sure how to pose. She has such a creative eye and will think up shots that end up turning out amazing. I can't express my gratitude enough."
- ashley & daniel
"i 100% recommend booking with salisha"
"I found Salisha on Instagram while browsing for elopements in the Yosemite area. She responded so quickly to my inquiry and helped us so much along the way. What stood out to me the most is she does it all.
She helped me pick beautiful locations, took amazing photos, was our minister and she helped us plan the day around bringing our pup. The day went smoothly and she was so kind. Not only do I recommend eloping in Yosemite, I 100% recommend booking with her."
-bryanna & alex
"salisha feels like your best friend right when you meet her"
"Salisha is AMAZING!! My husband surprised me with bridal pictures in Yosemite for our honeymoon and this was the highlight of our honeymoon for sure! Salisha is not only a photographer, but feels like your best friend right when you meet her!
She’s one of a kind photographer who was willing to hike to Taft Point with us for the perfect picture AND even hiked back with us after dark! She went the extra mile (quite literally) for us to get some of the most stunning pictures!! These pictures we will cherish for many many years to come and we are so glad we chose Salisha to document this special moment in our lives!"
-kensie & luke
I am proud to offer my clients a full 50-page location guide to help you choose from even more locations inside of Yosemite National Park for your elopement day. You're not limited to the list of ceremony locations the park provides, unless you have more than 11 people present.
ANSWEr
Of course! It just limits your location choices if you have more than 11 people. If you're planning on including guests at your elopement, then you'll want to make sure you get a proper headcount in advance, as well as checking this list for the rules on which locations allow which number of guests maximum.
ANSWEr
Important question to ask! I always recommend that each couple get familiar with the full list of regulations regarding weddings/special events inside Yosemite. Click here to view the NPS website regarding weddings inside the park.
ANSWEr
I do! Click here to visit a blog post I wrote about my favorite resorts near Yosemite. I also provide my clients with a full Yosemite Elopement guide with even more lodging recommendations organized by different areas of the park. I'll also link a couple recommendations below:
ANSWEr
Some must-have items to bring when eloping Yosemite are: cold weather items, bug-repellent, a clear umbrella or 2 (just in case!), extra towels if you plan to get close the falls, sunscreen, snack foods, extra water, a first aid kit, headlamps
ANSWEr
I always recommend to my clients to plan for a weekday elopement if at all possible, to both minimize the amount of tourism, as well as the possibility couples applying for wedding permits for your desired location/time.
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are the most ideal days of the week for a Yosemite elopement or wedding.
ANSWEr
In my opinion, the most underrated part of Yosemite is the northern side of the park located off the Tioga Pass. Tuolumne Meadows, Tenaya Lake, and the entire pass are a gorgeous place to visit, especially if you enjoy hiking, backpacking, camping, and scenic mountain alpine lakes and backcountry!
I also think if you're coming all this way that a visit to the east side of the sierras via Tioga Pass is so worth it! The drive is scenic and I love Mammoth, Bridgeport, Bodie, and Lake Crowley
ANSWEr
According to the National Park Service website, pets are not allowed to attend any wedding ceremonies within the park. If you really want to include your animal in your ceremony, I have some few suggestions of locations we can include them at just outside the park (like we did this day) and afterwards we can travel into the park without your pet to get photos! In this case you wouldn't need a special use permit.
For more info on pets/weddings click here.
ANSWEr
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
