So, you’re dreaming of an epic Yosemite elopement—just you, your love, and the jaw-dropping beauty of towering granite cliffs, golden meadows, and waterfalls crashing in the distance. Yosemite is hands down one of the most breathtaking places to say “I do,” but before you grab your hiking boots and head for the mountains, there’s one little thing you need to handle first: your Yosemite wedding permit.

Yep, even out in the wild, you need official permission to tie the knot inside the park. But don’t stress! I’m breaking it all down for you so you can focus on the adventure ahead. Let’s get into it.

Why Do You Need a Yosemite Wedding Permit?

Yosemite National Park requires a special use permit for all elopements and weddings, no matter how small. This helps protect the park’s natural beauty and ensures that locations don’t get overcrowded with ceremonies. Think of it as your ticket to having an intimate, uninterrupted moment in one of the most awe-inspiring places on earth.

How to Apply for a Yosemite Wedding Permit

Getting your permit is pretty straightforward, but timing is key! Here’s what you need to know:

When to Apply: Yosemite issues wedding permits up to one year in advance, but you’ll need to apply at least 21 days before your elopement date. Yosemite gets super popular (especially in peak seasons), so the earlier, the better!

How to Apply: Fill out a Special Use Permit Application found through the National Park Service (NPS) website and mail it to the park office with your permit fee via check/money order. Yes, snail mail and check/money order! Yosemite is a little old school…

Permit Fee: The cost is currently $150, and this fee is non-refundable.

Processing Time: Someone should contact you by email within two to seven business days, but I recommend getting it done as soon as you’re set on this location!

Questions: I have helped countless couples through this process and I am happy to help you with your application and questions! For direct Yosemite elopement and wedding permit information and/or questions contact Catherine in the permit office by email or by phone +1-209-379-1858.

Best Times to Elope in Yosemite

Yosemite is freaking gorgeous all year round, but depending on the vibe you’re going for, some seasons might be better than others:

Spring (April–June) – Wildflowers, full waterfalls, and mild temps. But expect crowds!

Summer (July–August) – Long days, stunning sunsets, and tons of hiking trails open—but also peak tourist season.

Fall (September–October) – Fewer crowds, crisp mountain air, and golden meadows. Easily one of the best times to elope!

Winter (November–March) – Snowy, intimate, and straight-up magical. Just know that some locations (like Glacier Point) might be inaccessible.

Where Can You Elope in Yosemite?

Not all locations in the park are wedding-approved, but don’t worry—there are still plenty of epic spots! Check out the official list of Yosemite ceremony locations here, keeping in mind that group sizes at different locations varies. Here are some of the best locations:

Glacier Point: Insane panoramic views with Half Dome, perfect for sunrise or sunset vows. Check out this elopement for more inspiration at this location.

Taft Point: If you want those dramatic cliffside views, this is the place. Check out this elopement to see the views at Taft Point.

Tunnel View: The classic Yosemite backdrop. If you want an epic view of El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and Half Dome in the distance, this is the spot. Check out this gallery to see more from Tunnel View.

El Capitan Meadow: Dreamy, quiet, and surrounded by towering granite walls.

Yosemite Valley Chapel: A cute, historic chapel if you want a mix of adventure and tradition.

What Else Do You Need?

Besides your wedding permit, there are a couple more things to check off your list:

Marriage License – You’ll need a California marriage license (about $60), which you can grab at any county clerk’s office in the state. If you’re coming from out of town, Mariposa County is the closest option to Yosemite.

Officiant – Yosemite lets you bring your own officiant, or you can have a friend/family member get ordained online (which is honestly kinda fun). Want to keep it ultra-intimate? I’m also an officiant! If you’re dreaming of a totally private, just-us elopement, I can legally marry you while capturing every incredible moment. No extra person needed—just you, your love, and the wild beauty of Yosemite.

Witness – You need at least one witness to sign your marriage license. If you’re eloping just the two of you, guess what? I can totally be your witness (if I’m not also your officiant) – or hikers along the trail have happily signed as witnesses!

Yosemite Elopement Restrictions & Rules

To help keep Yosemite wild and beautiful, there are a few things to keep in mind:

No amplified music, arches, chairs, or big setups (but nature’s backdrop is better than any décor, anyway).

Leave No Trace! Pack out everything you bring in. Let’s keep this place magical for generations to come.

No throwing confetti, rice, or petals (but throwing your arms up in celebration? Absolutely encouraged).

Check out the full list from NPS.

Let’s Make Your Yosemite Elopement Happen!

If you’re dreaming of adventuring through Yosemite, exchanging vows on a mountaintop, and soaking up every magical moment, I’m so freaking pumped to help make it happen! As a Yosemite adventure elopement photographer, I’ll guide you through the best locations, elopement activities, and timelines to make sure your day is stress-free and unforgettable.

Sound like your kinda day? Let’s do this thing! Reach out and let’s start planning your epic Yosemite elopement!