Can I elope in Yosemite in winter? Short answer… yes absolutely. Long answer… yes and it is incredible.

Winter is one of the quietest seasons in the park. You will often have locations nearly to yourselves, the snow adds a layer of magic that just does not happen in summer, and the photos look straight out of a winter fairytale.

If you want to see what winter elopements really look like, check out this snowy love story in the Grand Tetons:
A Winter Elopement in the Grand Tetons

Why Elope in Yosemite in Winter?

Fewer Crowds

Yosemite in winter is peaceful. Photo locations that are packed in summer are calm and quiet in the colder months.

Stunning Winter Scenery

Snow covered cliffs, icy rivers, low fog in the valley, and soft neutral tones make winter photos insanely beautiful.

Romantic and Cozy Vibes

Winter naturally slows everything down. Think slow mornings, cozy cabins, and relaxed timelines.
You can read more here:
Winter Wonderland Elopements: Embracing the Magic of Snowy Ceremonies

What Parts of Yosemite Are Open in Winter?

Some areas of Yosemite are open year round, while others close seasonally due to snow.

❄️ Open Year Round

These are typically accessible even in winter conditions

• Yosemite Valley
• Tunnel View
• El Capitan Meadow
• Bridalveil Fall area
• Lower Yosemite Fall
• Valley meadows and riverside areas

Many of my couples choose intimate valley locations like Cathedral Beach for winter vows because of the beautiful views and easy access.

Learn why I love it here:
Why Cathedral Beach is Perfect for Intimate Yosemite Weddings

🚫 Typically Closed in Winter

These roads usually close after the first major snowfall and reopen in late spring to early summer

• Tioga Road
• Glacier Point Road past Badger Pass Ski Area

That means locations like Taft Point and Glacier Point are normally not accessible in winter unless you ski or snowshoe several miles.

But that is okay… the valley is unbelievably beautiful in winter and offers so many incredible options.

Do You Need a Permit?

Yes. Yosemite requires a wedding and elopement permit even for very small ceremonies. It is simple to apply for, and I walk all my couples through it step by step. Or I can do it for you! I love helping my clients figure out all the details to make your life easier!

For a more general Yosemite elopement guide, you can read
The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Yosemite National Park

Where to Get Ready: Cozy Cabins and Lodges

One of my favorite things about winter elopements is cozy cabin mornings. Fireplaces. Soft blankets. Quiet moments. Warm lighting. It creates the most beautiful getting ready photos and sets such a relaxed tone for the day.

If you want ideas, this is an amazing resource:
Romantic Yosemite Cabins with Perfect Light for Getting Ready Photos

Some popular winter friendly options include

• Yosemite Valley Lodge
• Tenaya Lodge
• Evergreen Lodge
• Rush Creek Lodge
• Mountain cabins in nearby towns like Oakhurst or Fish Camp

Pro tip
Choose a cabin with big windows and bright walls if possible. The soft winter light looks incredible indoors.

Packing List for a Winter Yosemite Elopement

Winter requires a little more preparation, but it is totally worth it.

Essentials

• Warm coat you can layer between photos
• Hand warmers
• Thick socks
• Warm boots with traction
• Gloves
• Leggings or thermal layers under your outfit
• Blanket or shawl for cozy moments
• Umbrella
• Chapstick and lotion
• Thermos with tea, coffee, or cocoa

Safety and Practical Items

• Tire chains
• Extra food and water
• Flashlights or headlamps
• First aid kit
• Phone charger or power bank

For Your Photos

• Cute second layer like a shawl or coat
• Neutral scarf
• Touch up makeup
• Clear umbrellas if rain or snow

We can absolutely make all these layers look intentional and beautiful.

Being Flexible with Winter Weather

Here is the honest truth… Yosemite winter weather can change quickly. You might have sunshine. You might have snowfall. You might have fog. You might have all three in one day.

The key is flexibility. When you are open to whatever the day brings, winter creates absolute magic.

Are you the type who wants both an intimate elopement moment and a wedding celebration, you will love reading this:
Can I Have Both a Wedding and an Elopement?

Transportation and Chains

In winter, chain controls are common. Even if you have AWD or 4WD, you are still often required to carry chains. Check current road conditions through the National Park Service before entering the park.

Allow extra travel time and plan for slower driving conditions.

Where to Hold Your Winter Ceremony

Some of my favorite winter friendly ceremony spots include

• Cathedral Beach
• Valley View
• Sentinel Beach
• El Capitan Meadow
• Bridalveil Fall area

Each has beautiful views and tends to remain accessible even in colder months.

Should You Bring Guests?

If you want, Absolutely. Winter is perfect for small gatherings.

Just make sure guests are prepared for cold temperatures and walking on snowy or icy paths.

If you want to read about blending intimacy with celebration, this is a beautiful story
Intimate Yosemite Elopement and a Big Wedding

Consider Ending With Stargazing

Winter skies can be crystal clear, and the stars in Yosemite are unreal. If conditions allow, we can end the night with stargazing photos.

Learn more about adding this into your day
How to Include Stargazing in Your Yosemite Elopement and Why You Should

Sample Winter Yosemite Elopement Timeline

Here is a simple example to give you an idea

• Slow cozy cabin morning
• Getting ready photos by the fireplace
• First look in the forest
• Ceremony in Yosemite Valley
• Couples portraits around the valley
• Sunset photos if the light peeks through
• Optional stargazing session

Every timeline is tailored to each couple, the weather, and your priorities.

Bonus: Why Elopements Are Becoming So Popular

So many couples are choosing meaningful, intimate ways to celebrate.

Final Thoughts: Should You Elope in Yosemite in Winter?

If you love the idea of

• peaceful quiet landscapes
• cozy slow mornings
• snow kissed cliffs and forests
• soft winter light
• real intentional moments

Then yes. Winter might be the perfect season for you.

And if you want a photographer who knows the park well, understands winter conditions, and will help you plan every detail so you can simply relax and enjoy your day… I would love to be there for you.

We will plan. We will prepare. We will stay flexible. And together we will create the most magical winter Yosemite elopement day.

Whenever you are ready, reach out here and we can start dreaming up your winter adventure ❄️✨

The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Yosemite in Winter