How to Plan an Early Spring Elopement in Yosemite

What to Know for a Magical Just-Thawed Wedding Day in the Mountains

There’s something incredibly special about eloping in Yosemite in early spring. The snow is beginning to melt, the waterfalls are roaring back to life, and the park starts to bloom with signs of the season’s change. That early spring stillness — before the summer crowds roll in — sets the perfect stage for an intimate celebration.

My couple, Nick and Nicole, recently eloped in Yosemite in early spring, and their day was full of emotion, connection, and natural beauty. If you’re considering planning a similar experience, here are four key things to keep in mind when eloping in Yosemite during this unique time of year:

1. Some Iconic Spots May Be Closed — But There Are Still Incredible Options

It’s important to know that many of Yosemite’s high-elevation roads and viewpoints — like Glacier Point and Taft Point — are still closed due to snow through late May or early June. That said, Yosemite Valley is open year-round and offers epic views, lush meadows, and dramatic granite walls perfect for an elopement backdrop.

Some stunning spring-accessible elopement locations include:

• Tunnel View – The classic wide-angle view of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall
• El Cap Meadow – A peaceful spot surrounded by towering granite walls
• Bridalveil Fall – Especially powerful in spring and easy to access
• Yosemite Falls – One of the tallest waterfalls in North America

Up for more adventure? I have a few other locations up my sleeve…

2. Spring = Peak Waterfall Season

One of the best reasons to elope in Yosemite in the spring? The waterfalls. Melting snow from the Sierra Nevada creates a powerful rush of water, making this the most dramatic time of year to see them in full force.

During Nick and Nicole’s ceremony, you could hear Yosemite Falls in the distance — a steady, calming reminder of nature’s power. For couples who love the feeling of being small in a big, beautiful world, this season is unbeatable.

3. Be Ready for Unpredictable Weather

Early spring can be sunny, snowy, misty — or all three in one day. Mornings tend to be chilly, and fog or frost may hang in the air. But that’s part of the charm.

What to pack:

• Warm layers, especially for sunrise or sunset photos – Skin-colored leggings are a great layer!
• A waterproof layer for possible rain or trail spray – I’ll always have my clear umbrellas 🙂
• Sturdy boots — the trails may still be muddy or slick
• Hot drinks for cozy post-ceremony celebrating!

Where to stay:

I recommend staying in Yosemite West in Yosemite Valley itself. That way if the weather becomes unpredictable, you are already located in or near the park. The Ahwahnee Hotel is a dream! Sign into Airbnb and checkout this link for great places to stay.

Pro tip: Always have a flexible mindset and a backup plan, just in case weather shifts your original timeline or location. I’ve got you covered!

4. It’s Less Crowded — But You Still Need to Plan Ahead

While spring has fewer visitors than peak summer months, permits, lodging, and vendors still book up quickly — especially during wildflower season and school breaks. Start planning 6–12 months in advance if you can, especially if you want to stay inside Yosemite National Park.

Make sure to:

• Apply for your Special Use Permit for your ceremony location (details here)
• Book lodging in Yosemite Valley or nearby towns like El Portal or Mariposa
• Consider a weekday elopement for extra privacy and serenity
• Partner with a photographer who knows the park’s ins and outs (hi, I’m here for you ✨)

Nick and Nicole’s Elopement

Nick and Nicole began their morning getting ready at The Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite Valley. They shared an adorable cabin right next to the woods and rushing river. After getting ready and detail photos, we ventured outside for their first look and a morning prayer. The lighting filtering through the trees was just beautiful! After we adventured into the hotel for some portraits to take-in its historical architecture and design.

We soon left the hotel and caravanned to Cook’s Meadow. Nick and Nicole exchanged their vows beneath the roaring Yosemite Falls. After, we explored the meadows and visited the Yosemite Chapel. They were excited it was open! As we crossed the street, cars were honking in excitement for them.

It’s just wild how quickly the area can change this time of year. I was in the valley the day before visiting our locations and they were all covered in snow! I met up with Nick and Nicole just hours later and it was all gone! We were prepared for all types of weather, but Yosemite kept us on our toes. They ended up with a beautiful day.

After the chapel, Nick and Nicole were ready for some downtime. We set up a picnic and they enjoyed their premade charcuterie picnic box from a local company in Mariposa. Check them out here!

During this time, I wanted to make a special place for Nick and Nicole to visit and honor the passing of her father and grandmother. They had brought a couple photos and a candle. When they were ready they were able to share a private moment in their memory. This was not planned, but came together so perfectly.

We visited Yosemite Falls next. It’s a short 1 mile loop and is just beautiful to see this time of year.

As the sun began to set, we visited Valley View. Nick and Nicole then had an epic snowball fight! To sum up their adventure elopement day, we caught the last bit of sun at Tunnel View. Blue hour was even more magical.

Final Thoughts

Nick and Nicole’s early spring elopement in Yosemite was filled with joy, laughter, and meaningful moments shared. The quiet beauty of the park during this season created the perfect canvas for their love story to unfold.

If you’re dreaming of saying your vows surrounded by waterfalls, towering pines, and the peacefulness of spring, Yosemite might just be the place. And I’d love to help you plan a day that feels like you — easy, beautiful, and full of connection.

VENDORS

Yosemite Elopement Photographer: Christina Perhac Photography

Hair and Makeup: timeless.artistry.co

Flowers: Mariposa Nursery and Garden

Charcuterie: The Californian

Hotel: The Ahwahnee Hotel