Ultimate Taft Point Elopement Guide

If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic spot with incredible views for your elopement, Taft Point might be exactly what you’re after. Located on the edge of Yosemite Valley, it offers open skies, epic cliffs, and a sunset that’s hard to beat. It’s one of our favorites for good reason!

We’re Angie and Lee, a married Northern California photo and video team, and we’ve been lucky to hike this trail with so many of our elopement couples. It’s always an incredible experience! Whether you’re still deciding where to elope or you’ve already chosen Taft Point, this guide covers everything you need to know to plan your Taft Point elopement.

Why Couples Love Taft Point Elopements

If you’ve seen a photo from Taft Point, you probably already know why this spot is so iconic. You’re standing at the edge of the world with views of El Capitan, Yosemite Valley, and endless forest stretching out in every direction. But what makes it such a perfect place to elope?

• It’s more secluded than other popular Yosemite ceremony spots.
• The views are unreal, especially at sunset when everything turns gold and pink.
• It feels like an adventure without being too intense (the hike is short and manageable).
• It photographs beautifully in every season when the trail is open.

It’s peaceful, unique, and intimate, which are all the things we love most about Yosemite elopements.

When to Elope at Taft Point

Taft Point is especially beautiful at sunset! The stunning golden light dipping over the cliffs is always memorable for us and our couples. We usually aim to be at Taft Point around golden hour to get those soft, glowy photos and video.

As for time of year, Taft Point is typically accessible from late May through October, depending on snow. Keep in mind the trail is closed in winter and early spring, so summer and fall are your best bet. We personally love late summer and early fall for the best weather and fewer crowds.

What to Expect from the Hike

The hike to Taft Point is about 2.2 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain, which makes it pretty beginner-friendly. You’ll walk through the forest, cross a couple of small bridges, and then the view opens up. 

We always recommend wearing comfortable shoes for the hike and bringing layers. It can get chilly at sunset, even in the summer. You can definitely wear your wedding dress or suit for it too!

Licenses and Permits for Your Taft Point Wedding or Elopement

You’ll first need a marriage license for your Taft Point wedding or elopement. You can get one from any county clerk’s office in the state of California, but the closest to Yosemite National Park is Mariposa County. The cost varies by county but is roughly $100. You’ll need valid identification for both parties, proof of age, and a witness if you’re under 18. You can usually get a same-day marriage license, but it’s best to plan ahead!

In addition to your marriage license, you’ll need a permit to elope in Yosemite. The National Park Service requires a Special Use Permit ($150) for all weddings and elopements inside the park, including Taft Point, no matter how small your ceremony is. We recommend starting the permit process early since it’s due at least 21 days before your wedding, and we’re happy to help with that! 

Lastly, you’ll need a park entrance pass. These are $35 per vehicle and are valid for seven days. Or, you can grab an annual pass if you’re planning to explore multiple times.

Learn more about the legal requirements and more in our guide titled How to Elope in Yosemite National Park. Plus, don’t forget that we help all of our couples navigate the permit process, so it’s one less thing on your plate!

Choosing Where to Elope at Taft Point

You can say your vows right at Taft Point, either near the edge with the iconic views or tucked a bit off the trail for more privacy. However, most of our couples choose to say their vows somewhere like Glacier Point or Cathedral Beach earlier in the day and then hike Taft Point afterward for elopement photos at sunset.

It’s a great way to experience the best of both worlds. You’ll be able to have an easy-to-access ceremony location and also epic cliffside elopement photos. Lee is an officiant, so if you’re looking for someone to lead your ceremony, we’ve got you covered there too. We love helping our couples figure out the right spots based on their vibe, timeline, and what feels most meaningful to them. Yosemite has so many beautiful options, and we’re here to help you make the most of them.

What to Pack for your Taft Point Elopement

Since you’ll be hiking in and out, it’s best to pack light, but a few key items will make a big difference in keeping your experience smooth and comfortable. Here’s a quick checklist of the essentials:

• Permit paperwork
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Layers (it gets cold fast!)
• Water and snacks
• Headlamp or flashlight for hiking back after sunset
• Vow books, rings, and personal items
• Bouquet or small floral arrangement (optional)

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