Dreaming of eloping in Yosemite National Park? August is one of the best times of year to plan your intimate ceremony or adventure elopement in this iconic location. With golden light, epic mountain views, and plenty of accessible trails, it’s easy to see why so many couples choose Yosemite for their “just us” wedding experience.

Whether you’re envisioning an early morning ceremony at Glacier Point or sunset portraits in the meadows, this post covers everything you need to know about eloping in Yosemite in August—from the weather and crowd levels to the best locations and practical tips to make the most of your day.

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Why August is a Perfect Month for a Yosemite Elopement

August in Yosemite offers peak summer beauty without the unpredictability of spring snow or fall closures. Here’s why I love photographing elopements in August:

• Weather is almost always sunny and dry
  Expect warm days with temperatures in the 70s to low 80s in the valley and cooler temps in higher elevations like Glacier Point or Tuolumne Meadows. It’s warm enough to wear a flowy dress or a lightweight suit, but not so hot that you’ll be sweating through your vows.

• Full trail and road access
  By August, Glacier Point Road and Tioga Pass are fully open, which means you have access to some of the most stunning backdrops in the entire park. This also allows for more flexibility if you want to start in one location and end in another.

• Late summer sunsets
  The light in August is pure magic. Golden hour lingers, giving us time to explore and shoot in multiple locations without feeling rushed.

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Best Places to Elope in Yosemite in August

Here are some of my favorite locations for Yosemite elopements:

Glacier Point

One of the most iconic elopement locations in the park—and for good reason. Glacier Point overlooks Half Dome and Yosemite Valley and is especially gorgeous at sunrise. The lighting is soft, the views are unreal, and you’ll avoid most of the crowds by getting there early.

💡 Pro Tip: Glacier Point is only accessible by car in the summer and fall, and sunrise ceremonies offer the most privacy. Bring a blanket and some coffee and make a morning of it!

Taft Point

If you’re up for a short, scenic hike (about 2.2 miles round trip), Taft Point offers jaw-dropping cliffside views and fewer people than Glacier Point. It’s especially stunning at sunset, with soft golden light spilling into the valley below.

Yosemite Valley

For couples who love waterfalls, lush meadows, and towering granite walls, Yosemite Valley delivers. Lower Yosemite Falls, Cook’s Meadow, and Tunnel View are all incredibly accessible and breathtakingly beautiful.

Tuolumne Meadows

A less-visited gem at a higher elevation, Tuolumne Meadows is perfect for couples looking for a peaceful, alpine feel. Think open fields, sparkling rivers, and rugged mountain views.

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Tips for Planning Your August Yosemite Elopement

• Get your permits
  Yosemite requires a Special Use Permit for weddings and elopements. You can apply here on the official NPS site. Make sure to apply at least 30 days in advance and check with a photographer (like me!) who’s familiar with park rules.

• Avoid the midday crowds
  Yosemite is popular in August, so I always recommend scheduling your ceremony for sunrise or sunset. Not only is the light better, but the experience is more intimate without the daytime crowds.

• Pack plenty of water and snacks
  Even if we’re just hiking a short trail, the summer sun can be intense. A small backpack with water, snacks, and maybe a celebratory drink is a must!

• Dress smart
  Choose attire that allows you to move comfortably, hike if needed, and stay cool. I always tell my couples: you can look amazing and be practical. Lightweight dresses with movement, boots instead of heels, and a backup jacket for those breezy cliffside moments are all great options.

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Where to Stay Near Yosemite

There are several lodging options depending on how “off the grid” you want to go:

• In the park: Consider staying at Yosemite Valley Lodge or the historic Ahwahnee Hotel.

• Nearby towns: Groveland, Oakhurst, and Mariposa have cute Airbnbs and cabin rentals.

• Glamping: AutoCamp Yosemite is an amazing option with luxury tents and a hip, outdoorsy vibe.

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Make It a Full Adventure

So many of my Yosemite couples turn their elopement into a multi-day celebration. Think: paddleboarding on Tenaya Lake, hiking to Vernal Falls, or a cozy campfire picnic post-ceremony. I can help plan and photograph it all—from sunrise to stars.

If you’re looking for a Yosemite elopement photographer who knows the park, understands lighting, and can help you craft a meaningful experience, I’d love to connect. Let’s make magic in the mountains together.

📸 Get in touch here or view more of my Yosemite elopement portfolio.

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Final Thoughts

Eloping in Yosemite in August is a dream: warm, wild, and full of wonder. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small circle of your favorite people, this park has a way of making your love feel epic. And that’s exactly what it should be.

Let’s start planning your unforgettable Yosemite elopement.