Golden hour cliffside views, a laid-back timeline, and vows shared with Yosemite Valley as their witness — Morgan and Jesse’s elopement at Taft Point was the kind of day that makes you say, “Damn, this is why people elope here.”

Why Morgan & Jesse Chose a Yosemite Elopement

Morgan and Jesse found me through a Google search while looking for a Yosemite elopement photographer who could help plan, guide, and photograph their dream day. They were looking for someone who knew the area and could take care of all the logistics so they could focus on being present and enjoying every moment.

Morgan and Jesse chose my 4-hour mini elopement package — perfect for a shorter hike, a relaxed vow exchange, and golden hour portraits. They didn’t want anything overwhelming. Just the two of them, the forest, the cliffs, and the experience. If you’re wondering how to elope in Yosemite without the stress, keep reading — Morgan & Jesse’s day shows exactly how it’s done.

Where to Stay When Eloping in Yosemite

When figuring out how to elope in Yosemite, it’s important to consider both your budget and how far you’re willing to travel.

During our planning call, I recommended they stay in Oakhurst, one of the best home bases if you’re eloping at Taft Point. It’s more affordable than staying inside the park and only about 1.5 hours from Yosemite Valley. Morgan and Jesse stayed in a cozy hotel in town and drove up the next day.

Obtain the Proper Permit to Elope in Yosemite

If you want to elope in Yosemite, you’ll need a Special Use Permit. Here’s how to get one:

1. Go to the Yosemite NPS Permit Page
2. Download and fill out the Special Use Permit application
3. Email the form to the park office: yose_superintendent@nps.gov (double-check the website in case it updates)
4. Wait for approval and payment instructions
5. Pay the fee (usually $150–$200)
6. Print and bring your approved permit with you

I help all my couples with this step to make it stress-free.

Hiking to Taft Point for Your Yosemite Elopement

Morgan and Jesse chose Taft Point for their ceremony spot — and it’s easy to see why. It’s one of the best views in the entire park, with epic drop-offs and panoramic Yosemite Valley views. The trail is a 2.3-mile out-and-back with minimal elevation, making it beginner-friendly.

We met at their hotel for a few casual getting-ready shots, then caravanned to the Taft Point parking area. Morgan and Jesse packed their vow books, snacks, water, and their adorable matching sage green hiking shoes. The hike in took us about 45 minutes with lots of breaks, silly moments, and photo stops along the way.

Wildflowers were blooming everywhere — especially lupine and Indian paintbrush. The forest glowed gold as the sun lowered.

Sunset Vows on the Edge of Yosemite Valley

At the top of Taft Point, we found a secluded spot for their elopement ceremony. Surrounded by towering pines and cliffs, they exchanged vows as the last light hit the valley. It was intimate, emotional, and absolutely stunning.

Then we went full photographer mode. They danced, kissed, and soaked in the views while I captured candid and dramatic portraits. And yes, we got that cliffside shot — the one that shows just how vast Yosemite really is.

Golden Hour & Blue Hour at Taft Point

I used natural light for most of the hike and ceremony, but once the sun dipped, I brought out my off-camera flash to make them pop against the pastel skies.

The final photos were cinematic and bold — with deep blue skies, glowing skin tones, and the kind of drama that makes people stop scrolling.

You won’t find many Yosemite elopement photographers who know how to blend natural light and flash the way I do. It’s one of the things that sets me apart and allows me to create photos that feel like artwork.

Tips for Eloping in Yosemite National Park

• Best time to elope: May through October (spring flowers, summer glow, or fall color)
• Best light: Sunset into blue hour at Taft Point is unreal
• Pack layers: It cools down fast after sunset
• Avoid weekends: Weekdays are way less crowded
• Bring water & snacks: Especially if you’re sensitive to altitude or plan to take it slow
• Leave no trace: Stay on trail and respect nature

Final Thoughts from Morgan & Jesse

Morgan and Jesse said their elopement felt peaceful, intentional, and true to them. They loved that I wasn’t just their photographer — I was their planner, hiking buddy, and low-key hype man the whole way.

I also surprised them with instant film photos, airdropped behind-the-scenes shots at the end of the night, and sent them sneak peeks within 24 hours. Their full gallery was delivered just 4 weeks later in a custom online gallery they could share with family.

Ready to Plan Your Yosemite Elopement?

If you’re dreaming of eloping in Yosemite National Park and want a photographer who does more than just take pretty pictures — I’m here for it. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to elope in Yosemite — step by step, without the stress.

I’ll help you plan a laid-back, meaningful elopement that actually feels like you.

Want to see how a Vietnamese couple honored tradition while exploring California’s golden hills and coastal cliffs? Check out Janice & Vu’s Malibu elopement at El Matador Beach — it’s full of Ao Dai details, romantic beach moments, and epic views!