How to Plan an Elopement at Glacier Point -

A couple sitting on a large boulder at Glacier Point. They are in their elopement attire, sitting side by side facing the view.

Everything You Need to Know About Eloping at Glacier Point

If there’s one place in Yosemite National Park that will make your jaw drop the moment you arrive, it’s Glacier Point. Standing at 7,124 feet above sea level, you have views of the most iconic landmarks in the park, including Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. You also have views of the entire Yosemite Valley sprawled out below you. If you’re dreaming of exchanging vows at one of the most dramatic places to get married in California, and a view that people travel from all over the world to see, here is everything you need to know to plan your Glacier Point elopement.

The Best Time for a Glacier Point Elopement

Glacier Point is only accessible for part of the year, unless you’re willing to get adventurous and hike (4 miles trail) or snowshoe to get there. Glacier Point Road is typically open to vehicles from May to October, but this can vary with weather conditions.

During May and June, the weather is more unpredictable and the road may not be open yet. It’ll be less crowded at Glacier Point, but you’ll need a backup plan.

Summer is the most popular time to elope at Glacier Point because of warm weather and fewer road closures. Since it’s the busiest time of the year, you can expect a lot of people out and about. Keep in mind that summer and early fall is wildfire season, so smoke might be something that you’ll need to be prepared for.

September and October is my favorite time to have couples elope in Yosemite! There’s usually less people around the park and temperatures cool down but are usually still comfortable. But just like spring, it can be a little more unpredictable, and an early snowstorm can close the road to Glacier Point.

No matter the season, another great tip is to plan your elopement for a weekday if possible! Weekdays are always less crowded than weekends. Doing a sunrise ceremony is another amazing way to ensure more privacy. Even though you might not be at Glacier Point by yourself, getting there for sunrise definitely helps! Psst! Sunrise is also my favorite at Glacier Point! The lighting is spectacular and there’s just a calmness in the air. Such a great way to start your wedding day.

Getting There

Glacier Point Road takes you to Glacier Point. You’ll take Wawona Road as you drive into the park (from Highway 41 if you’re driving north, or from Southside Drive if you’re coming from Yosemite Valley), then you’ll turn onto Glacier Point Road. Warning: it’s a windy drive through the mountains. Then you’ll find the parking lot at Glacier Point. From there, it’s just a short walk to the views.

Remember, the road closes for the winter! It is open from May – October, but this depends on snowfall and can vary each year.

A couple's first look before their Glacier Point elopement. The groom is standing with his back toward the bride, who has her hand on his shoulder.

Glacier Point Wedding Permits

A permit is required to get married at Glacier Point. You can apply for a Special Use Permit on the National Park Service site, and there is a $150 application fee. You have to apply at least 21 days before the wedding date, but it’s best to apply earlier. You don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute!

How Many Guests Do You Want at Your Glacier Point Elopement?

This is one of the most personal decisions you’ll make when you’re planning your day. There’s no wrong answer! Who you invite, if you decide to invite anyone, to your elopement is about what feels right for you. But, the number of guests also affects your options for eloping at Glacier Point.

In Yosemite National Park, elopements with 11 people or fewer have the most flexibility. With a small group, you can get married anywhere in the park. You’ll have more freedom in choosing a any spot at Glacier Point.

But if you plan to have a larger ceremony, you can have up to 50 guests, at he Glacier Point Amphitheater. The natural stone seating area is right near the overlook, with the breathtaking backdrop right there. The Glacier Point Amphitheater is available from the Tuesday after Memorial Day through September 30th, but weddings are not scheduled here in July and August. Also, keep in mind, if you decide to do Glacier Point Amphitheater, it is public space and you will have a few extra guests watching.

A wedding ceremony at the Glacier Point Amphitheater. The couple is standing at the front reading their vows, and their guests are seated on blankets.

Glacier Point Elopement Timeline

As an elopement photographer, part of my job is helping couples create a timeline for their day! Here are some tips and a sample timeline, to help you picture what your Glacier Point elopement could look like.

Elopement Timeline Tips

Have a sunrise ceremony – sunrise is quieter, and you get that soft golden light. Glacier Point is one of the most popular overlooks in Yosemite, but at sunrise, there will only be a handful of other early risers around.
Build in buffer time for the drive – when driving Glacier Point Road, you should always add extra time for traffic, wildlife sightings, and the fact that it’s a winding road. Having extra time eliminates stress and rushing!
Plan an adventure day – your elopement isn’t just the ceremony! Yosemite is huge, and after you say your vows, you can spend the day exploring.

A couple standing in front of the view at Glacier Point on their elopement day. They are facing each other, the bride's hands on the groom's shoulders and his hands on her waist.

Sample Elopement Timeline

3:00 AM – wake up, have breakfast and coffee, and get dressed
5:00 – leave the Airbnb
6:30 – first look and a few portraits as the sun starts to rise
7:00 – ceremony!
7:30 – family photos and couple’s portraits at Glacier Point
8:00 – picnic with family
9:00 – Head down to Yosemite Valley
10:00 – Explore Yosemite Valley
1:00 – Lunch in Yosemite Valley
3:00 – Drive to Mariposa Grove for a walk among the Sequoias
5:00 – head to an intimate reception with guests

Tips for Your Glacier Point Elopement

Here are a few final things to keep in mind for your Glacier Point elopement!

Bring layers – Glacier Point sits at an elevation of over 7,000 feet, so it will be colder than the valley! Always bring extra layers, especially for early mornings or late evenings.
Download offline maps – you definitely can’t rely on cell service in the park. Download offline maps so that you can navigate to your destination!
Pack snacks and water – it’s easy to forget basic needs like eating and hydrating when you’re thinking about all of the elopement day excitement. Make sure you have food and water with you.
Have a backup plan – when you elope somewhere as wild as Yosemite, a Plan B and Plan C are essential. Weather, road closures, and wildfires are possible unexpected surprises.
Hire a photographer who knows the park – as an elopement photographer, my job is to have that Plan B and C so that you don’t have to stress! Hiring a photographer who is experienced and knows Yosemite will ensure that all you have to worry about is getting married.

Ready to Plan Your Glacier Point Elopement?

Whether you’re picturing just the two of you at sunrise or your closest people at the amphitheater, your Yosemite wedding photos will be what you get to look back on to remember the day for the rest of your life. I’ll be there to take the photos, but also to help with permits, the timeline, vendor recommendations, and more! So if you’re planning your Glacier Point elopement and want a photographer who knows the park and is committed to making sure you have the best experience possible, contact me!

Ready to Elope at Glacier Point?

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Hi, I’m Liz!

I believe that the connections we build with those in our lives is what makes life worthwhile. I am truly a people person. I thrive being around others, and being part of a couples’ wedding day feeds my soul!” My couples aren’t just my clients, they are my friends and we are building a friendship through your whole wedding journey.

As an elopement photographer, avid traveler, and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve visited tons of great places for elopement ceremonies. I’m excited to share them with you in this post!