Best Time of Year to Elope in Yosemite (And Why Summer Might Surprise You)

If you’re dreaming about eloping in Yosemite, one of the biggest questions you’re probably asking is: When is the best time of year to elope in Yosemite?

While Yosemite is stunning year-round, different seasons offer very different experiences depending on where you want to explore. And here’s the truth: summer—often overlooked because of crowds—is secretly one of the best times to elope if you know where to go.

We’re here to help you navigate it all: Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, Taft Point, Tuolumne Meadows, and even the nearby High Sierra and Mammoth Lakes.

Let’s dive in!

Our Favorite Time to Elope in Yosemite: Summer into Early Autumn in Tuolumne

While the entirety of Yosemite is amazing, Tuolumne Meadows is hands down our favorite location for elopements. And here’s the catch: it’s only accessible for 4–5 months each year, typically from early June through mid-October.

Many couples shy away from summer Yosemite elopements because of the Valley crowds. But we LOVE summer because it means Tuolumne is open—and Tuolumne feels like a hidden world compared to the busy Valley.

Cooler temps while the Valley is hot
Fewer crowds that are easily spread out
Incredible alpine views of granite domes, sparkling rivers, high country lakes, and wildflower meadows

Summer in Tuolumne feels wild, peaceful, and intimate—everything you want for an unforgettable wedding experience.

Glacier Point and Taft Point: Stunning From May to Early November

If you’ve seen those jaw-dropping Yosemite wedding photos with Half Dome looming in the background, or a couple perched on dramatic cliff edge, chances are they were taken at Glacier Point or Taft Point.

These locations have a longer accessible season than Tuolumne, typically from early May to early November.

Mid May to early November is prime time for elopements here
Sunrises are magic at Glacier Point
Sunsets are incredible at Taft Point

Pro tip: Taft Point at sunset is one of our favorite experiences to share with couples—the light, the cliffs, and the feeling are pure magic.

Yosemite Valley: Year-Round Beauty, But May to Mid-June Shines

Yosemite Valley is the iconic heart of the park and it’s open year-round.

Our absolute favorite window for Valley elopements is mid-May through mid-June:

Waterfalls are at their peak
Glacier Point and Taft Point are usually open
You can combine epic valley shots with cliffside sunset portraits

May and June are pure magic—lush greenery, dramatic falls, and dreamy golden light.

Winter Elopements in Yosemite: A Different Kind of Beauty

Winter can be absolutely gorgeous if you’re open to the unexpected:

December has beautiful low-angled light and fewer crowds
January and February can be stunning if there’s snow, but the landscape can also look dormant if there’s a dry spell
March is a shoulder season—great granite views, but minimal flora

If you want a snowy elopement in Yosemite Valley or a cozy winter adventure session, winter could be for you!

Spring Awakening: April into May

Late April into May is when Yosemite really starts to wake up.

Waterfalls begin roaring
Valley greenery returns
Warmer, longer days make adventures more comfortable

It’s a beautiful time for Yosemite Valley elopements, especially if you want lush vibes without summer crowds.

Autumn Elopements: October and Early November

October is consistently our busiest month for elopements, and for good reason:

Comfortable temps
Gorgeous golden light
Fall colors starting to pop
Lower crowds

November brings even quieter vibes, rich autumn color palettes, and a sense of peacefulness throughout the park.

If you love the idea of a colorful, calm wedding day, fall could be your season.

Don’t Forget: The Eastern Sierra and Mammoth Lakes

While Yosemite is our main love, we’re also obsessed with the nearby High Sierra and Eastern Sierra regions.

Mammoth Lakes (accessible year-round, best June–October)
June Lake (fall colors peak in early to mid October)
Convict Lake and other high alpine gems
The High Sierra is prime for adventure elopements June -October

If you’re craving fewer crowds and even more dramatic mountains, we can build an epic two-day adventure that includes both Yosemite and the High Sierra.

Quick Summary: Best Times by Area

Area	Best Time
Yosemite Valley	Mid-May to Mid-June
Glacier Point / Taft Point	May to Early November
Tuolumne Meadows	June to Mid-October
Mammoth Lakes / Eastern Sierra	June to October
Winter Wonderland (Yosemite Valley)	December to February

Let’s Plan Your Dream Elopement

No matter what season speaks to your heart, we’re here to guide you to the best locations, light, and experiences.

If you’re looking for a Yosemite elopement photographer and adventure photo and video team who knows this landscape like the back of their hands, reach out here and let’s start planning!