15 Epic Yosemite Wedding Venues and Ceremony Spots You’ll Love
Thinking about eloping in Yosemite National Park? As a local Yosemite Wedding Photographer, I’m here to share my top 15 ceremony locations with jaw-dropping cliffs, dreamy meadows, and those “are we in a postcard” vibes! It’s no wonder this iconic spot is every adventurous couple’s dream! As someone who spends more time in Yosemite than in her own living room (who else wouldn’t want to?!), I’ve seen just how magical an elopement or intimate wedding here can be and… fun fact, I’m planning my own elopement here too!
TOP 15 WEDDING VENUES AND CEREMONY SPOTS IN YOSEMITE:
Let’s chat about the best places to get married in Yosemite National Park (in no particular order) and what you need to know to pull it off without a hitch (pun intended).
Taft Point
Why it’s special: Taft Point is the queen of dramatic backdrops, it’s such an easy hike and unless you hike Half Dome or Cloud’s Rest, you really can’t get views like this anywhere else - think sweeping views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and the Sierra Nevada. If “adventurous romance” is your vibe, this is your spot. Just imagine saying your vows with your hair blowing in the breeze and a sheer drop behind you. Literally iconic. This is a great spot for engagement photos or wedding portraits after you tie the knot!
Requirements & guest limit: You’ll need a special use permit, and the guest limit is 10 people (yep, that includes you, your photographer, and your officiant). Pro tip: Get there early or pick an off-peak time - trust me, you don’t want a crowd crashing your moment and it happens here a lot, especially at sunset.
Glacier Point
Why it’s special: If Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and panoramas of Yosemite are on your elopement mood board, Glacier Point is calling your name!
Requirements & guest limit: Permits are a must, and the guest limit is 50 people. Keep in mind, Glacier Point Road closes from late fall to late spring, so, double-check those dates or get ready to lace up your hiking boots! I’m always up for an adventure, but fair warning .. the off-season hike is about 13 miles uphill. Think of it as the ultimate 9-hour StairMaster challenge! It’s totally worth it, though, and I’m more than happy to take on the trek for any adventurous couple, haha!
Yosemite Valley Chapel
Why it’s special: Want a sprinkle of tradition with a Yosemite twist? This adorable chapel has all the charm, surrounded by granite cathedral cliffs and meadows. It’s like a scene from a rom-com, but better! It;s honestly such a cute chapel and you’re guest can explore Yosemite Valley afterwards too!
Requirements & guest limit: The chapel fits 125 guests inside, but outdoor ceremonies nearby have different limits. Call the chapel for the full scoop, click here for more information.
Cathedral Beach
Why it’s special: Picture this - saying your vows by the Merced River with El Capitan towering behind you. It’s intimate, beautiful, peaceful, and nature at its finest. Cathedral Beach is located in Yosemite Valley.
Requirements & guest limit: Permits are required (sensing a theme here? You can’t get married without a permit, but it’s super easy to apply - Click here for a step by step!), and you can invite up to 50 guests. Bonus: it’s super accessible, so Grandma and your flower girl won’t need hiking boots!
Sentinel Dome
Why it’s special: Sentinel Dome is so underrated! If you’re dreaming of 360-degree views that are better than Glacier Point, with less crowds, Sentinel Dome is the one! It’s a short, moderate hike to the top, but the views of the park are worth every step!
Requirements & guest limit: Guest limit is 11 people, and yes, you’ll need a permit. Pro tip: Pack some cute-but-sensible shoes for the hike - you can always change into heels for the photos or just hide them under your dress!
Bridalveil Fall
Why it’s special: This spot is perfect if you want to be up-close to a waterfall and surrounded by the granite cliffs, within the woods! Bonus points if you visit in spring or early summer when the waterfall is at its fullest. I recommend early morning for best lighting and less crowds.
Requirements & guest limit: Permits are required, and you can invite up to 30 guests. This spot is super, super easy to get to, so no one’s breaking a sweat before the ceremony (unless it’s happy tears).
Mariposa Grove
Why it’s special: Ancient sequoias as your wedding backdrop? Say less. This grove feels like something out of a fairytale, with towering trees creating the most magical setting for your vows. It’s pretty intimate if you choose the perfect spot too!
Requirements & guest limit: Permits required (surprise!), and guest limits are 15 people. Keep in mind it’s a walk-in-only location, but honestly, who wouldn’t want to stroll through this magical forest?
Tenaya Lake
Why it’s special: Picture this—crystal-clear alpine waters, granite peaks reflecting like a dream, and a serene, tucked-away vibe. Tenaya Lake is straight-up ethereal and perfect for couples who want a mix of adventure and tranquility for their vows. Bonus: it’s stunning year-round!
Requirements & guest limit: A permit is required (because Yosemite loves its permits!), and the guest limit is 50 people. The best part? It’s super accessible, so no strenuous hikes - just pure, magical lakeside vibes!
Cascades Picnic Area
Why it’s special: A hidden gem along the Merced River, Cascades Picnic Area is giving all the dreamy forest vibes. The soothing sound of cascading water and the lush greenery make this spot feel like your own little slice of Yosemite magic. It’s perfect for couples who want a cozy, intimate vibe with nature stealing the show. Bonus: it’s picnic-ready for post-ceremony snacks!
Requirements & guest limit: You’ll need a permit, and the guest limit is 50 people. This spot is super accessible, so it’s a win-win for you and your guests who might not be up for a trek.
Lower Yosemite Falls
Why it’s special: This location is chef’s kiss for dramatic Yosemite vibes. Lower Yosemite Falls offers a front-row seat to one of the park’s most iconic waterfalls. Spring and early summer are when this beauty is at full roar, but it’s breathtaking year-round.
Requirements & guest limit: Permits are required, with a max guest limit of 50 people. It’s easy to get to, making it perfect for a fuss-free ceremony with jaw-dropping views.
Swinging Bridge in Yosemite Valley
Why it’s special: Picture this: you and your love exchanging vows with the Merced River and Yosemite Falls in the background. Swinging Bridge is a vibe for couples who want a mix of water, meadow, and mountain views—all in one spot.
Requirements & guest limit: Permits are required, and the guest limit is 20 people. This spot is ideal for a small, dreamy ceremony with quintessential Yosemite magic.
Sentinel Beach in Yosemite Valley
Why it’s special: This riverside spot is pure serenity. With views of the Merced River and Yosemite’s iconic cliffs, Sentinel Beach gives off a peaceful, romantic vibe that’s perfect for an intimate ceremony.
Requirements & guest limit: A permit is required, with a guest limit of 50 people. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic location.
Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Area
Why it’s special: Nestled in Yosemite’s high country, the Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Area is a dream for nature lovers. Surrounded by expansive meadows, granite domes, and pristine wilderness, this spot feels like something out of a fairytale.
Requirements & guest limit: Permits are required, and the guest limit is 25 people. It’s perfect for couples seeking a serene, alpine vibe.
Tuolumne Grove
Why it’s special: Exchange vows among ancient giants. Tuolumne Grove’s towering sequoias bring an enchanting, almost otherworldly feel to your ceremony. You’ll feel like you stepped into a fairytale, and honestly, it’s hard to beat that kind of magic.
Requirements & guest limit: Permits are required, and the guest limit is 15 people. It’s a short hike to the grove, so wear comfy shoes and prepare for an unforgettable experience.
Merced Grove
Why it’s special: If you love the idea of a quiet, intimate ceremony surrounded by ancient sequoias, Merced Grove is calling your name. It’s smaller and less crowded than some of the other groves, giving it a peaceful, tucked-away vibe.
Requirements & guest limit: Permits are required, and the guest limit is 15 people. The grove is accessible via a short hike, making it a perfect spot for a private and romantic ceremony.
Yosemite Elopements Under 12 Guests
If your party is fewer than 12 people, you’re not limited to the above locations (except for open meadows and riparian environments). This gives you the freedom to explore even more magical spots in Yosemite! Just make sure to check with the park for specific restrictions to keep everything stress-free and smooth
How to get married in yosemite national park
A Yosemite elopement is dreamy, but it’s also official business. Every ceremony requires a $150 special use permit to make sure your celebration protects the park’s natural beauty. Need help? Check out my detailed Yosemite Permit Blog (because, yes, I’ve got you covered). Click here for a step by step on how to fill out and submit your Yosemite Wedding Permit!
This is your sign to grab your soulmate, a permit, and your adventurous spirit. Yosemite is waiting to make your wedding day unforgettable. And if you need help finding the perfect spot, timeline tips, or just someone to gush over your plans with, I’m your girl. I’m here to make your Yosemite wedding dreams come true!
I guide my couples every step of the way, offering expert planning, jam packed location guides, and a personalized experience that truly feels like you! From the ceremony location to the details that will make your day unforgettable, think of me as your personal Yosemite wedding guide.
Ready to create the wedding day that puts you and your partner at the center? Click here to get in touch, and let’s start planning your greatest adventure yet!
