Eloping in Yosemite National Park: A Photographer’s Guide to Planning Your Perfect Day
If you’re dreaming about eloping in Yosemite National Park, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most iconic places in the U.S. for a reason. Between the massive granite cliffs, quiet alpine meadows, and waterfalls that feel straight out of a movie, it’s the kind of place that makes you stop and think, wow, this is it. Yosemite has this perfect mix of epic adventure and calm beauty, which is why so many couples choose it for their elopement.
And the best part? You don’t have to plan it alone. Having a photographer who knows how to capture both the jaw-dropping landscapes and the in-between moments of your day makes all the difference. That’s where I come in. I’m not just there to take photos. I’m there to help you plan a day that actually feels like you.
The Best Time to Elope in Yosemite
Spring and fall are usually the sweet spots. In the spring, waterfalls are at their peak, and the park feels alive after the winter snow melts. By fall, you get cooler weather, colorful leaves, and fewer crowds. Summer can be gorgeous too, but it is definitely the busiest season which means popular spots like Glacier Point or Tunnel View will be packed.
If privacy and a laid-back vibe are important to you, I’ll help you pick the right time of day and lesser-known spots so you don’t feel like you’re sharing your vows with a crowd of strangers.
Want to compare Yosemite to another dreamy option? Check out my Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Glacier National Park to see how it stacks up.
Getting to Yosemite
Most couples fly into either Fresno Yosemite International Airport which is about 2 hours away, or San Francisco International Airport which is around 4 hours away. Fresno is closer, but flying into San Francisco or Oakland gives you more flight options if you’re coming from farther away. Once you land, you’ll definitely want a rental car since there’s so much ground to cover.
Where to Stay
From rustic cabins to luxury lodges, there’s something for every couple here. The Ahwahnee Hotel is the most iconic stay in the park with its stone fireplaces and big wood beams. If you’re looking for something more private, there are tons of Airbnb and VRBO options just outside the park, especially near towns like Mariposa or Oakhurst. I can help point you toward stays that fit your vibe, whether you want cozy and quiet or modern and stylish.
Permits and Rules
You’ll need a special use permit to have a wedding or elopement in Yosemite. Right now, the fee is $150, and it’s best to apply early since the park has limits on how many events they allow per day. The permit also outlines which areas you can use for your ceremony. Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through the process so it feels straightforward instead of overwhelming.
Here’s the official Yosemite permit information.
Why Yosemite is Perfect for Your Elopement
The thing I love most about Yosemite is how it gives you options. You can stand on the edge of Glacier Point and feel like you’re on top of the world, or you can sneak away into a meadow surrounded by tall pines for a quieter and more intimate ceremony. It’s big, it’s wild, and it lets you make your day whatever you want it to be.
And when you have me as your photographer, you’re not just getting someone who shows up with a camera. I’ll help you with timelines, locations, and even little details like where to watch the sunset or how to avoid crowds. I want your day to feel stress-free, fun, and full of memories you’ll actually want to relive.
If you’re also considering Oregon for your big day, I put together a full Oregon Elopement Guide that dives into the best spots along the coast and beyond.
Let’s Make It Happen
Eloping in Yosemite is more than a wedding day. It is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. If you’re the kind of couple who wants to soak it all in without rushing, laugh a lot, and have photos that feel like you, I’d love to help you plan and capture it all.