How to get married in Sequoia National Park
Deciding to elope in Sequoia National Park is so much more than just pretty photos- it’s about choosing a day that’s deeply personal, one that’s filled with moments of adventure, connection, and awe. It’s about immersing yourself in the beauty of nature, far from the traditional wedding expectations, and embracing an experience that’s authentic and true to you.
Whether it’s sharing a quiet sunrise at Beetle Rock or exchanging vows beneath the towering sequoias, your elopement in Sequoia will be a celebration of your unique love story—one that’s as breathtaking and timeless as the park itself.
If you’re dreaming of saying I DO in the great outdoors, I’ve got the perfect place for you. Want a day full of adventure as you become one with the love of your life under ancient giant sequoias, then Sequoia National Park is the perfect place for you!
As a local photographer who specializes in documenting epic love stories in the great outdoors, I help ALL my couple's create the elopement of their dreams!
In this guide, you’ll find 5 simple steps to help you plan your Sequoia National Park Elopement. It a lot easier than you probably expected! Ditch the stress, let’s plan the elopement day of your dreams!
1. Choose the Perfect Location
Sequoia National Parks offers so many diverse backdrops! It can be hard to pick just location, but one of the amazing aspects of elopement is, you can do whatever your heart desires! From towering General Sherman Tree, which is the biggest tree in the world, to the jaw dropping vistas at Moro Rock, Sequoia has it all. Check out this post for best locations in the park for you Sequoia National Park Adventure Elopement! You’ll want to pick a location first so that when you apply for your permit, you’ll be ready!See BEST locations in the park here!
Here are the locations:
Now Kings Canyon does not get as much credit, but there are hidden gems here that make me feel like I am in Yosemite without the crowds! There are two ceremony locations in Kings Canyon:
Panoramic Point, Wedding
Muir Rock / Roads End, Wedding (a mini yosemite!)
Both parks have their own hidden gems! Because I am a local, I know BOTH parks + their secret spots that I have found on my own adventures.
2. Secure Your Permits
Sequoia National Park Elopement - Beetle Rock
Any wedding or elopement requires a special use permit. You will need to download the permit application, fill it out, and email to the address listed on the application. There is a $150 non-refundable application fee. You will need to include proof of the payment when sending in your application. You will need to apply at least 60 days before your big day, but the more time in advance the better! Find the wedding permit here!
You can check out a step by step guide here!
3. The Logistics and Planning
Create a timeline that fits your needs! When hiring an experienced and local Sequoia photographer like me, I can help with this! You just tell me what activities you want to do + locations you want to explore, and I will come up with a customized timeline. I’ll send over Google pins to make the day run smoothly. Since I created the timeline, I’ll know exactly where we need to be & what time we’ll need to be there. Since I know the park like the back of my hand, I will plan around the best times of day for best lighting, times to avoid the crowds, and also take into consideration distances from location to location. You won’t have to keep checking the clock to stay on time, I will do this for us. Your only job is to have the ultimate experience and soak it all up. I’m here for you!!
4. Adventure Approved Elopement Attire
Depending on the season, you'll want to dress for the occasion. The weather can change drastically at higher elevations. Of course you will want to look absolutely stunning, but also keep in mind how functional your wedding attire is. Keep in mind that you can always change throughout the day or as needed! Leave the stilettos at home, opt for functional shoes, especially if you plan on hiking!
5. Work with a Local and Experienced Sequoia Photographer!
Need a Local and Experienced Sequoia Photographer? Hiiiiii! Ariel here at your service! ;)
When I am not photographing epic elopements in Sequoia national National Park, you can still find me in the park with a camera in my hand, backpack on my back, hiking a trail, looking for new hidden gems! Because I am based in Fresno, California, I have the luxury of being only one hour away from this beautiful place. You can only imagine how difficult it is to not want to run to the forest every second I get, but truth be told Ido anyways. if I’m not photographing an epic elopement, or working on the back end of my photography business, I will find any chance to visit the park. Use my knowledge and expertise of the park to help provide the ultimate Sequoia elopement experience for my couples! Do you know what they say, who knows a place better than a local? when you hire me as your Sequoia elopement photographer, my years of experience and knowledge is at your service. Not only will you get a photographer that will capture epic photos, you get your own personal resource at the palm of your hand (or in this case palm of your email LOL).
Sooooooo, if you’re reading this…what are you waiting for?! Let’s starting planning the Sequoia Elopement of your dreams! Inquire below and I will be in touch within 48 hours. If you don’t see an email in your inbox within 48 hours, check your spam folder OR reach out to me directly at arielivegaphoto@gmail.com. Can’t wait to connect!!
