Planning the Perfect Yosemite National Park Wedding
Yosemite National Park is one of our nation’s most iconic natural destinations. It’s a place of true natural splendor known for its remarkable landmarks like Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, majestic sequoia forests, and breathtaking waterfalls. So it’s no wonder adventurous and outdoorsy couples dream of a Yosemite National Park wedding! Luckily, the park welcomes […]
Yosemite National Park is one of our nation’s most iconic natural destinations. It’s a place of true natural splendor known for its remarkable landmarks like Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, majestic sequoia forests, and breathtaking waterfalls. So it’s no wonder adventurous and outdoorsy couples dream of a Yosemite National Park wedding! Luckily, the park welcomes intimate wedding ceremonies, with a few restrictions in place to keep the park and its precious wildlife safe and sound. Consider this your Ultimate Guide to your Yosemite National Park wedding!
Yosemite National Park Weddings – The Ultimate Guide for Hosting Your Dream Day
What Time of Year Should You Consider for Your Yosemite National Park Wedding
Yosemite is beautiful year-round, but there are a few things to remember when planning your wedding. Spring and fall are ideal for a wedding, thanks to more moderate temperatures and lighter crowds. The late spring is beautiful thanks to warming weather and raging waterfalls rushing with snow melt. Remember that while the waterfalls are truly spectacular, they can make it hard to hear a heartfelt ceremony if held nearby. In the fall, gorgeous autumn colors spread throughout the park, creating a vibrant backdrop for a wedding.
You may want to avoid summer wedding dates since high temperatures and dry conditions bring a high risk of wildfires. Additionally, the summer is when you see the highest number of tourists, meaning you may encounter more stragglers throughout your wedding. Winter can be done, but remember that many trails, roads, and paths may be closed due to snowfall.
Where to Get Married at Yosemite National Park
There are a few recommended sites that are great for weddings within Yosemite National Park. Keep in mind that all ceremony sites are on a first-come, first-served basis with a wedding permit, and morning time frames are recommended to avoid large crowds. Check out their website here to read more about each location in depth!
- Cascades Picnic Area: 30 people max
- Lower Yosemite Fall Paved Trail: 50 people max
- Swinging Bridge Picnic Area: 20 people max
- Cathedral Beach Picnic Area: 50 people max
- Sentinel Beach Picnic Area: 100 people max
- Bridalveil Fall: 50 people max
Obtaining a California Marriage License
You’ll need a California marriage license to make your Yosemite National Park marriage official. You can get one by visiting the Mariposa County Recorder’s office, paying the $60 license fee, and sharing any required documentation (read up about what specific documentation you’ll need here.) Your marriage is valid for 90 days from the date it’s issued and needs to be returned within ten days of your ceremony.
Something else to consider is that you’ll need a special use permit for your Yosemite National Park wedding. The permit costs $150, and if you need event monitoring (depending on the site you plan to use and your guest count), you’ll be charged an additional $50 an hour. Read more about how to acquire the proper permit here!
Hiring Yosemite Wedding Photographer
You’ve likely chosen Yosemite National Park because of its awe-inspiring beauty; make sure you hire a photographer who can help you make the most of this incredible destination! My editorial style and passion for capturing authentic, intimate moments make me an amazing option for your beautiful wedding. I promise your photos will reflect your personalities, style, and, most importantly, the love you have for each other, accentuated by the stunning surroundings of Yosemite.
Yosemite National Park Wedding
Still have questions about planning your dream Yosemite National Park wedding? I’m happy to help in any way I can! Just reach out when you’re ready, and we’ll plan your spectacular dream day.
