Why Yosemite?

Yosemite National Park offers timeless granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and meadow vistas — a dream for elopement photos. But because it’s a protected national park, you’ll need to plan ahead and follow the rules to make it official.

📝 1. Apply for the Yosemite Elopement/Wedding Permit

Every ceremony — even tiny elopements — must have a special use permit from Yosemite National Park. It costs about $150 and must be applied for up to one year in advance, and at least 21 days before your date.

👉 Where to apply:

• National Park Service Yosemite weddings page: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/weddings.htm
• Download the Special Use Permit Application PDF on that page and mail it (original copy + payment) to the permit office.

📍 Tip: Permit processing can take weeks, especially in peak season. Start early!

📍 2. Choose Your Yosemite Ceremony Location

With your permit, you can hold your ceremony at one of Yosemite’s approved ceremony sites (many iconic vistas qualify):

• Glacier Point – breathtaking valley views
• Taft Point or Sentinel Dome – dramatic cliffside backdrops
• Cathedral Beach or Bridalveil Fall area – forest + water combos

💡 If your elopement party (including vendors) is 11 people or fewer, you may be able to choose more secluded spots outside the official list.

❤️ 3. Get Your California Marriage License

Before your Yosemite elopement, you’ll also need a California marriage license (valid for 90 days). The nearest convenient clerk office is often the Mariposa County Clerk (close to Yosemite). If you want to skip that travel, many couples get their license near home before the trip.

📆 Planning Tips

• Yosemite doesn’t grant permits on holiday weekends or federal holidays.
• Keep your ceremony under 2 hours at your site.
• Early mornings or weekdays help avoid crowds and make stunning photos.

Summary: Permits + marriage license + amazing natural backdrops = unforgettable elopement in Yosemite! Start planning up to a year ahead for best dates.