How To Elope in Yosemite (Checklist and Travel Guide for Couples)
In this blog post:
The Ultimate Yosemite Elopement Planning Guide
UPDATE: Yosemite NP has announced required entrance reservations for specific holiday dates and summer months in 2025. Please make sure to check if you need one on their Reservations Page.
You + Eloping + Yosemite = The Dream
Congratulations on choosing to elope and getting ready to start planning one of the best days of your life as a couple. Is there really a better way to celebrate your relationship goals than to elope in the scenic landscapes of Yosemite National Park?
I don’t think so!
Making the decision to elope is making the decision to choose how you want to get married without the external pressures of family and friends.
But it doesn’t have to be secret; it doesn’t have to be short. You deserve to have a day you’ll love whether it is simple, meaningful and/or adventurous as you want it to be since ultimately, it’s you who gets to define what it means to elope.
About Yosemite National Park
If you’re visiting Yosemite for the first time, you’ll want to know things like how to get there, what the weather is like, when’s the best time to visit, and other similar questions.
So, I’ve compiled a few things below, including links to visitor’s resources, to get you started:
WHERE IS YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
Yosemite National Park is located in the eastern side of Central California (this is not considered Northern California).
There are 5 entrances through the park with 4 of them on the west side, and one of them on the east.
The most popular entrances for first-time visitors are on the west side:
Highway 120 – Big Oak Flat Entrance
Highway 140 – El Portal /Arch Rock Entrance
Highway 41 – Wawona /South Entrance
Yosemite National Park Location
Yosemite National Park West Entrances
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN YOSEMITE
The weather in Yosemite changes with the seasons (unlike many other parts of California) so it’s always important to do lots of research ahead of your visit.
Additionally, you may need to be location-specific in your search as the temperature range throughout the park is wide!
Here are a few additional things to note:
Winter (Average temperatures ~0 to 30s F)
During the months of November through April, different parts of the park experience winter weather conditions such as rain, hail, thunderstorms, snow, and even flooding.
This means that visitors will experience typical and last-minute closures of road and park areas.
As such, you’re limited in what to see and do and you’ll need to take extra precautions like packing extra insulated clothes, snowshoes, and carrying or using tire chains to drive through the area when required.
Spring (Average temperatures ~40 to 60s F)
Most visitors start arriving at Yosemite during the months of April through June.
During this time, Yosemite showcases full waterfalls and luscious rivers/lakes as the snow begins to melt. It’s an ideal time to visit!
But like Winter, this season brings it owns series of rainy and cold days (and possible floodings). So, don’t get carried away with not preparing well enough, especially to deal with cold nights.
Summer (avg. temperatures ~50 to 90s F)
Summer in Yosemite is the busiest season as solo travelers, friends and families gather to hike, camp, and stargaze.
There's no doubt that June through September brings the most features as all services and roads are open to visitors!
The downside? Reservations book fast, tourism is at its peak, and parking runs out.
It's best to arrive early (think before 8 AM) or later in the evening (around 5 or 6 PM) to avoid the traffic rush and spending entrance wait times in the sun.
During the daytime, the weather can reach dangerous temperatures too so it’s important to prioritize putting on sun protection, finding shade often, drinking plenty of water, and eating snacks like trail mix, protein or granola bars, and dried fruits.
In the nighttime, you’ll likely experience very chilly and refreshing winds so, again, don’t forget to pack your layers!
Fall (Average temperatures ~ 40 to 80s F)
As the hot weather starts to dim, Fall is another ideal season to visit.
During the daytime you’ll most likely be able to shed off layers (especially if it’s a sunny day) but at nighttime it gets cold. There's no other way to put it: It gets cold and feels like winter temperatures.
Something else to note is that during Fall, there are usually prescribed burns happening throughout the park. It’s best to check the latest fire updates and consequent closures to ensure you have a backup plan in place ahead of your visit.
A sunny but chilly morning in Mid-November
HOW DO YOU GET TO YOSEMITE + TRANSPORTATION TIPS
There are a few options for first-time visitors on how to get to Yosemite depending on your plans, budget, and abilities:
Car Rental and Airports Near Yosemite National Park
If you’re flying in and renting a vehicle to get around, here’s a list of the nearest international airports, their one-way distance, and average driving time to the western entrances of Yosemite National Park:
Fresno Airport (FAT) - Approx. 65 miles distance, average driving time: 1 hour 30 minutes. PRO : it’s the closest airport and it’s small, CON: it has very limited arriving and departing flights
Oakland Airport (OAK) - Approx. 153 miles distance, average driving time: 3 hours 45 minutes. PRO: it’s great for economic and variety of flights, CON: it’s long distance to Yosemite and can be made longer by Bay Area traffic
Sacramento Airport (SAC) - Approx. 154 miles distance, average driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes. PRO: It avoids Bay Area traffic, and it’s a medium-sized airport, CON: there are limited flights and not always low-cost
San Francisco Airport (SFO) - Approx. 172 miles distance, average driving time: 4 hours 30 minutes. PRO: it’s great for economic and variety of flights, CON: it’s a long distance and can be made longer by Bay Area traffic
San Jose Airport (SJC) - Approx. 182 miles distance, average driving time: 4 hours 15 minutes. PRO: it’s a medium-sized airport and has variety of arrival and departure flights, CON: it’s a long distance to Yosemite and can be made longer by Coastal/Bay Area traffic
Airports Closest to Yosemite National Park
Train and Bus Routes to Yosemite
One of the most underrated options to get to Yosemite National Park is through the use of public transportation.
It's not the right choice for everyone, since traveling through public transit requires time, patience and extra preparation. But if it’s something you would consider to avoid car expenses or traffic stress, then look into Amtrak and YARTS.
Check out the official Yosemite National Park website for detailed directions if you’re thinking of using public transportation for your visit.
Amtrak Train – San Joaquin Line
The Amtrak train does not run to Yosemite; however, it can transport you from the city you arrive to a destination that’s closer to the park such as Merced or Fresno (where you can access the YARTS bus).
Amtrak fares are anything between $15-25 for a one-way ticket depending on your departure station, and the trip length from station to station can be about 3-4 hours. For example, from Oakland to Merced, it will take about 3 hours. Then it’s another few hours more to arrive at the park.
It’s worthy to note that not every trip is perfect, and a longer journey should be expected to account for unexpected train service disruptions. For fares and timetables for the San Joaquin line, check here.
YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System)
The YARTS is a series of bus lines that runs to Yosemite from two connecting cities: Merced and Fresno. The Merced connection runs year-round, while Fresno’s only runs through the Summer so make sure to plan accordingly depending on when you visit!
As for fares, a one-way trip averages $45 and takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to arrive there as it makes stops in several towns/lodging areas. For fares and timetables for YARTS, check here.
Pro Tip: Once you get to the park, you can move around by boarding the Yosemite Valley bus lines while they are in service or book a guided tour offered by the Park.
Private Tour Cars and Rideshare Options
The last option to get to Yosemite is to book a private tour guide that includes pick-up and drop-off at your chosen airport or to use a platform like Uber or Lyft.
It’s an expensive option so it only makes sense to consider it if you’re unsure about driving on unfamiliar roads and/or traveling with a large group to share expenses.
WHERE CAN YOU (AND YOUR GUESTS) STAY DURING YOUR YOSEMITE TRIP
Choosing where to stay during your trip to Yosemite will depend on the number of nights you need and the number of guests travelling with you.
Given that there are so many factors at hand, for the purpose of this post I will only share towns and cities for your consideration.
Then you can use them as guiding stars in your search for lodging whether that is a campground, rental home (from VRBO or Vacasa), or a hotel.
Closest to the Park - Yosemite campgrounds and hotels, Yosemite West, El Portal
Short Distance from Park (towns that are 1 hour away) - Midpines, Mariposa, Oakhurts, Fish Camp, Groveland, Wawona
Long Distance from Park (cities that are 2 hours away) - Manteca, Merced, Fresno
Towns to find lodging around Yosemite: Check this Google Map list
Can You Get Married in Yosemite?
Yes! You can absolutely get married in Yosemite as long as you have the following:
The approved Ceremony Permit from Yosemite NP (have physical copies with you)
Your valid California marriage license
An officiant OR ordained family or friend to officiate and sign the paperwork
You can choose to marry at one of the pre-approved locations for a ceremony with guests or book your wedding at the Yosemite Valley Chapel.
How to Elope in Yosemite
Yosemite is full of scenic beauty and iconic landmarks so it’s a no brainer that it will be the best location for your elopement ceremony and portraits.
Often, couples say that the romantic and intimate setting it provides, with the opportunity to connect with the outdoors, is what makes their day unique.
When you consider eloping to Yosemite, just remember that the park is not a wedding venue. As such you (and any guest) must take environmental considerations seriously through your entire visit!
This means respecting the flora and fauna, packing all trash, and even using hardy bouquets and boutonnieres to avoid seed falling and germinating.
Pro Tip: To learn more about Leave No Trace, the organization and its principles, check out https://lnt.org/why/7-principles/
HOW TO GET A YOSEMITE CEREMONY PERMIT
Currently, there’s is NO online method to apply or pay.
So to submit a permit application to obtain a Yosemite wedding permit (also known as a Special Use Permit), you’ll need to download it, fill it and mail a physical copy with a non-refundable payment of $150 by check or money order.
Before you send off your application, you’ll need:
A preferred date and location for your ceremony (keeping in mind your guest count)
Alternative, backup options should your preferred ones not be available; and,
Your preferred start time for your ceremony
If you need help determining what a good start time is, you should talk with your elopement photographer as they’ll have insight on the best time depending on lighting and location.
After your application and payment is received and reviewed, they’ll send you your personalized special use permit for review and signature. You’ll need to mail it back for final approval along with any additional fees requested (ie. Monitoring fees).
Finally, once everything is completed, you’ll receive the final copy of the authorized permit which you must carry with you during your ceremony.
More details on Yosemite wedding permits can be found on their site.
Pro Tip: Once your permit is submitted, it can take 3-4 weeks or more to review and process so I would highly advise that you apply at least 6 months in advance to make sure your date is available. You can even apply as early as one year in advance of the date!
Also, if you submitted everything and haven’t heard from their office via email within 4 weeks, follow up with them! Check their website for their contact information.
What is the Cost of Eloping in Yosemite?
There are several things to consider when calculating the cost of eloping to Yosemite and this is just the tip of the iceberg. If you have yet to come up with a tentative budget for your day, I share tips on everything you should include here.
But on average, you should anticipate to budget for:
Permits + Entrance + Reservation
It’s currently $150 for the permit, $35/vehicle for the entrance fee, and $2/vehicle for the entrance reservation when required
Elopement Vendors
Cost will depend on services and travel but an elopement in Yosemite with an officiant, photographer and florist can average between $4000 - $6000
Flights/Transportation to and from Yosemite
If you’re flying from out of state, your flight ticket may cost $200+, so research your exact trip and add additional fees such as rental cars, train or bus tickets, etc.
Lodging + Meals
Cost will depend on location, number of nights and number of guests staying with you. Lodging areas in and around Yosemite usually average between $50 to $200 per night. As for meals, estimated expenses average $50 per person, per day.
Wedding Apparel
With a variety of online shops, couples can find wedding apparel that fits their needs with costs that average $300 for dress/gowns and $300 for tuxedos/suits.
Best time to elope is in late Spring or early Fall
When is the Best Time to Elope in Yosemite?
The best time to elope in Yosemite is in late Spring or early Fall due to its pleasant weather and opportunities to have less crowded areas at your ceremony location.
In late Spring, the waterfalls are in full effect as the snow continues to melt and hiking trails begin to open (Glacier Point Road and Tioga Pass Road usually open around May or June too).
Then in the Fall, the colors of the trees change to make the park a cozy adventure and your elopement a unique celebration.
BEST DAYS OF THE WEEK TO PICK FOR YOUR CEREMONY
Due to the flexible and intimate nature of elopements, the best days to elope are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays.
Choosing a weekday not only allows you to have more options but also increases the chances that you’ll have your ceremony location to yourself.
Weddings are not permitted for holiday weekends.
Pre-Approved Yosemite Elopement Ceremony Locations
Yosemite National Park has a list of ceremony spots you can pick from if you’re having more than 11 guests.
If you’re having less or no guests, you’re not restricted to these locations, but you’ll still need to pick a preferred and alternative location ahead of time as the permit requests it.
CEREMONY LOCATIONS OPEN YEAR ROUND (YOSEMITE VALLEY):
Cascades Picnic Area
Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
Bridalveil Falls
CEREMONY LOCATIONS OPEN SEASONALLY (VALLEY AND MOUNTAINS):
Glacier Point
It’s typically available June and September with weddings not permitted in the summer months of July and August
Tenaya Lake Beach
It’s typically available when Tioga Pass Road opens
It’s typically available after Memorial Day weekend until October 31st
Sentinel Beach
It’s typically available after Memorial Day weekend until October 31st
MY PERSONAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR COUPLES-ONLY ELOPEMENTS:
Taft Point (typically available when Glacier Point Road opens)
Cook’s Meadow Loop
Sentinel Bridge (not beach)
Read here for more information on all these ceremony locations, including tips and guest counts.
Elopement photos at Glacier Point with a view of Half Dome
Where to Get Your Marriage License for a Yosemite Elopement?
Couples who visit from out-of-state have two options:
Get all the legal paperwork done in their hometown; or,
Get married in California (you don’t have to be a California resident for this)
For those planning to wed in California, you’ll need to apply for your marriage license at a County Clerk’s Office that’s easy for you to go to.
That means going to an office close to your airport where you can apply and file, or going to the Mariposa County Clerk’s Office which is the closest one to Yosemite.
Many couples choose Mariposa since it’s easier for them to pick and drop it off as they travel to and from the park. But your plans will ultimately depend on where you’re staying before and after your elopement.
If you choose this option, don’t forget to call ahead of time and make an appointment to come in to apply for the license as they don’t accept walk-ins.
More information on marriage license requirements for Mariposa County, check their website here.
Pro Tip: Another thing to keep in mind is that you’ll also need an officiant to solemnize your marriage and to sign your California marriage certificate. They could be an ordained family, friend or photographer, or a specialized officiant. Additionally, you’ll need at least one witness present at your ceremony.
Booking a Yosemite Elopement Photographer
For your elopement, booking a Yosemite elopement photographer will elevate your experience as they specialize in capturing moments at the park.
But as they have explored the park before hand, they also will provide recommendations for locations and times for your ceremony and for your photos!
In addition, an elopement photographer:
Knows their way around Yosemite. They already know the ins and outs of the park and ensure that you have the information at hand. They keep up with updates about weather, road closures and other news.
Prioritizes flexibility and thinks ahead. They are planners by nature and will always keep an open mind when plans change due to unforeseen circumstances. During the planning phase they think ahead and have back up plans; they often have an easy time rolling with the punches.
Cares about the environment. They follow leave-no-trace practices and ensure their couples do too. They understand the significance of preserving and respecting nature!
Understands deep connection. If Yosemite NP has a big significance to you, your elopement photographer will understand and highlight it in the photos.
Couple explores Glacier Point during Sunset in September
Yosemite Elopement Timeline and Activities
Planning an elopement consists of two parts: Your travel itinerary and your elopement day timeline.
Your travel itinerary includes overall details about your trip like how many days you’ll be visiting the area, and what activities you’ll do before and after your elopement day.
Whereas your elopement day timeline is all about what you’ll do the day of your elopement, from the time you wake up until you go back to sleep at the end of the day!
YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT TIMELINE TIPS
When you’re coming up with ideas, keep in mind that the timeline will be heavily influenced by the timeframe your Yosemite wedding permit is approved for, but in general you should think about:
How long it’ll take you and your partner to get ready
If you’re having one or multiple first looks, when you’ll want them to happen
If you’re sharing vows privately in another location, how long it takes to get there
Start time for your ceremony + how long it will be
Time to explore or hike around
Time for photos before and after ceremony (and with family/friends if applicable)
Start time for a picnic or private dinner to celebrate (or another meal)
Start time for other activities (like a stargazing tour with Yosemite Conservancy or a sunrise drive)
COUPLES’ ACTIVITIES IDEAS TO ADD TO YOUR ELOPEMENT DAY
Aside from hiking and exploring the park, there are quite a few things you can do in and around the park that will add to your elopement day or the rest of your trip.
Here’s a short list of ideas that you can use for inspiration:
Going skydiving in Mariposa
Taking a beginner's class in rock-climbing with Yosemite Mountaineering School
Booking a walking, biking or other guided tour in Yosemite Valley
Skiing at Badger Pass, snowshoeing or ice skating at Curry Village (winter only)
Riding a western-style train in the south Yosemite area
Visiting the Local Art Galleries in Yosemite
Having a Spa Day at Tenaya
Tasting Wine/Beer selections in Mariposa
Booking a horseback riding tour
Joining an art class with Yosemite Conservancy
For more information on activities you can do in and around Yosemite, you can find more details on these websites:
Pro Tip: Always include extra time in your elopement timeline as a buffer between activities to account for personal time, travel-related issues, traffic delays and weather restrictions. It’s best to expect needing more time for your activities than to be rushed, especially if you’re hiring vendors or having guests.
Bringing Guests to Your Yosemite Elopement
Please skip this section if you’re not having guests for your elopement.
If you reserve a wedding venue in Yosemite, you can host up to 150 guests.
If you do NOT reserve a wedding venue, the maximum number of guests you can have will vary by ceremony location. The majority of locations allow up to 30 guests, and some allow up to 50. Only one of the pre-approved locatoins allow up to 100 guests.
So before deciding how many guests to invite, research the ceremony locations, ask about your date availability and determine which one provides easy access for everyone you plan to invite.
LODGING AND TRANSPORTATION TIPS FOR GUESTS
If you’re lodging outside of the park, your guests will very likely want to do the same to be closer to you.
So, if you want everyone to be in the same area, look into booking rentals or hotels in the nearby towns of Groveland, Midpines, and Mariposa.
Keep in mind that housing all guests in one place may not be possible due to rental restrictions which means that if you want to host a dinner or small reception, you’ll need to be clear and be specific in your search.
Before booking a place, share your plans with the rental owner first. You definitely should have permission in writing from them to host your guests instead of going behind their back and getting caught with unauthorized rental use.
As for transportation to and from the park, your guests have these options:
Driving their own car ($35/vehicle entrance fee)
Renting a small charter van (approx. $20/person entrance fee); or,
Taking public transportation (approx. $25 round-trip bus fare that includes park’s entrance fee).
What to Wear to Your Yosemite Elopement
Picking wedding attire for you and your future spouse is all about balancing looking great and feeling comfortable for your adventure. Here are 3 things to consider:
PACKING TIPS FOR TRAVEL
Go for fabrics that are light and don't crease easily, making them perfect for travel.
Think about the ease of movement especially if you’re thinking of hiking and exploring in them for your ceremony or photo spots.
Consider investing in a travel steamer and a sturdy garment bag or backpack to keep your outfit in shape.
COLOR IDEAS FOR OUTFITS
Choose colors that blend well with the outdoors such as earthy tones, soft pastels, and even deep shades to accentuate the scenery.
Don’t forget to add your personality too by adding your favorite colors to touches like hairpieces, small bouquets, boutonnieres and other wear items.
KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEATHER AND DRESS ACCORDINGLY
If you’re eloping in the warm months, think light, boho, and flowy for your style. Fabrics like cotton, linen (for suits) and chiffon or tulle (for gowns) are great for keeping cool in warmer weather while maintaining mobility and an elevated vibe.
On the other hand, if you’re eloping in the cooler season, bundle up with bridal coats, handwarmers and earmuffs for extra warmth and comfort. Underneath your attire you can also consider using cozy nude leggings and leg warmers.
Insider Tips for Couples Eloping in Yosemite
Before you start planning your Yosemite elopement, read these insider tips to help you navigate the logistics and avoid common hiccups:
Mail your permit application ASAP
Yosemite requires a Special Use Permit for all weddings, no matter the size, so make sure to apply from 6-12 months in advance (and no later than 30 days) before your date. It fills up fast, so the sooner you do it the better!
Pick a midweek ceremony date
To improve your chances of securing a permit at the location and time of your choice, consider a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. These are less busy than weekends or even Mondays and Fridays during peak season (mid-June to mid-September).Get your marriage license near Yosemite
If you're doing the legal paperwork in California, plan a weekday visit to the Mariposa, San Francisco or Fresno County Clerk’s Office. Mariposa is closest to the park, but Fresno or San Francisco might be more convenient if you're flying in and out.Hire a Yosemite elopement photographer to help you plan
A photographer who knows the park can guide you through planning, timelines, vendor tips, and location scouting on top of documenting your day beautifully.Virtually look up your ceremony spot ahead of time
Research the area using Google Maps, AllTrails, or location-specific blogs so you know what to expect when you arrive!Book your lodging inside the park if possible
Lodging fills up quickly from May to September, so plan ahead. Staying in the park makes your day smoother, and it’s helpful for guests too, so it’s preferable. But if it’s full, look into nearby towns.Dress for comfort and the elements
Choose outfits you can move in and layer for the weather. Expect dust, dirt, and possible chill winds depending on the season. So pack accordingly and expect your outfit to get a little rugged.Practice Leave No Trace
Stay on trails, pack out all trash, and don’t disturb nature. Share these guidelines with your guests too because protecting Yosemite keeps it beautiful for everyone.Plan your transportation and itinerary to detail
If you’re coming out of state, fly into a nearby airport (Fresno is closest), rent a car, and map out your ceremony day including parking, hike times, and drive distances. Keep in mind that shuttle services in the park are very limited.
Yosemite Elopement and Travel Planning Checklist
Now that you have all the information you need to plan your Yosemite elopement and trip, you’ll need a checklist to keep you on track.
Not sure where to start? I got you covered!
In addition to a Yosemite Elopement Planning Checklist, I’ve also created a packing checklist to help you prioritize the essentials.
Found this post helpful? Don’t forget to save or share it with a friend or family!
Hey, I’m Sara!
I’m a California elopement photographer based in the Central Valley.
If you’re recently engaged or ready to start planning your elopement day, I’m cheering you on and I’d love to help!
Let’s talk about your vision, gush over stunning locations and spend the day creating memories.
I’m here to guide you through the process + capture your day how you dream it.
YOUR PERFECT DAY STARTS HERE
Recent Posts:
