Just imagine being surrounded by towering redwood groves, and canyons carved by rivers and glaciers while marrying your best friend, it’s truly unforgettable! If you’re anything like me and love the great outdoors then Sequoia National Park may be the elopement location for you!
If you’re thinking about having a Sequoia National Park elopement then make sure to read this guide thoroughly as I’m hoping it’ll help you plan the forest elopement of your dreams!
Table of Contents
Sequoia National Park Elopement Locations
Since Sequoia National Park is a protected area, it has specific requirements and designated locations where elopement wedding ceremonies are permitted. However, we are allowed to roam around and take pictures around the park and explore this epic location! Below are the designated ceremony locations to elope at in Sequoia National Park.
Beetle Rock
Beetle Rock is one of many popular elopement locations in Sequoia National Park. It offers an incredible view of the edge of San Joaquin Valley and has a remarkable sunset! One thing to keep in mind while eloping at Beetle Rock is that there are no paths or stairs onto the rock so be very careful when climbing on up especially if you are eloping in the winter time it can be very icy.
75 people maximum
Halstead Meadow
Halstead Meadow is not a very well-known area and does not attract very many visitors. This can be great for couples who want the most privacy possible and who are looking to have the “Just us” experience. You will not be able to walk into the meadow, but rather, stand on the outskirts of it to be in the backdrop of your ceremony. In the spring, the lush green grass and wildflowers look incredible, and you can sit down and relax while having a picnic with your loved ones. There are a few picnic tables in the area. Note: there are no restrooms here, and the area in general has been a little neglected since the last time I was there.
20 people, 4 cars
Crescent Meadow
Crescent Meadow is another dreamy location for a Sequoia National Park elopement, especially if you decide to have a sunrise elopement! The bright green grass is striking when the early morning sun hits the meadow. It’s the perfect backdrop for an elopement ceremony and is very quiet and peaceful.
Note: During park shuttle operating season, the road closes to private vehicles from 8 am to 7 pm Sat, Sun, and Holidays. Wedding permittees and guests must take the park shuttle.
Also, the road to get to Crescent Meadow closes to vehicles during winter months when it becomes impassable to snow.
30 people maximum, 10 cars
Long Meadow/Wolverton
Although I think this meadow is really pretty for sunset portraits, there aren’t any wide open spaces that are big enough for a group of 10 guests. This area has been neglected since the last time I’ve been there.
100 people maximum, 30 cars maximum
Lost Grove
This designated area is right alongside the highway and the ceremony takes place on the paved turn out. If you choose this location for your ceremony, be prepared for cars to be driving by during the ceremony. However, despite the potential cars driving by, this area is extremely accessible, especially for handicapped guests, and there’s a group of impressive sequoias that will be the background for your ceremony.
25 people maximum, 5 cars maximum
Kings Canyon National Park Elopement Locations
Panoramic Point Overlook
Panoramic Point is a stunning location overlooking hundreds of miles of Kings Canyon National Park as well as the neighboring national forests. This elopement location is a very short hike, only 0.5 miles to see a breathtaking view and it allows up to 15 people for an elopement!
15 people maximum, 5 cars maximum
Muir Rock/Road’s End
Note: this location is only available during the spring, summer, and fall when Highway 180 to Cedar Grove is open. In the winter months, this area is not accessible.
20 people maximum, 10 cars maximum
Visit the official Sequoia National Park website for a list of all their approved ceremony locations throughout the park.
Visit this helpful map for a couple of other park-recommended areas that may accommodate larger ceremony groups:
Wedding Permits & Requirements
I’ve pasted these steps directly from the Sequoia National Park website!
- Review all of the above information and all Permit Conditions.
- Choose a location, date, and time. Choose alternates in the event that your first choice is unavailable. Wedding permits will not be issued for heavy use periods including Memorial Day weekend, Fourth of July, and Labor Day weekend. Note that applications must be submitted a minimum of 60 days prior to the event date to be considered. For example, an application submitted on May 15 must have an event date no sooner than July 15 to be considered.
- Complete a Wedding Permit Application.
- Return it via e-mail to the address listed on the form, along with proof of the $150 non-refundable application payment (see payment instructions below). Allow 30 days for processing.
- If approved, we will e-mail you a draft permit for your review and signature.
- You will sign and e-mail the signed permit back to us to be finalized by the Superintendent.
- The finalized permit must be issued by the NPS a minimum of 30 days prior to the event date or the application will be canceled. No changes may be made to the finalized permit.
- Carry the permit with you on the day of your event. Please keep in mind that cell service is not typical at the event locations, so you should print a copy of your permit.
How to Pay the Application Fee Using Pay.gov
- Go to Pay.gov
- Type “SEKI” into the search bar
- Scroll down to “Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP Wedding Permit Fees” and select “Continue”, then select “Continue to the Form”
- Fill out the form completely and select “Continue”.
- Save a screenshot of your proof of payment and include it with your application.
Event Information For Your Sequoia National Park Elopement
🕰️ Time
- The maximum time allowed for outdoor events is three hours.
🎫 Entrance Fees
- Entrance fees into Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are not waived for either wedding participants or guests.
🪑 Seating
- If you have guests who require chairs, please include the number of chairs in special requests on your application. Chair requests should be kept to a minimum, keeping in mind that chairs must not obstruct or block public use of the area because the location of your event must remain open to all other park visitors. A wedding permit authorizes the use of an area and is not a reservation of a location. Setting up a large number of chairs construes to other park visitors that a location is reserved for an event.
- You are responsible for supplying, setting up, and removing chairs during your event time period, which can be no longer than 3 hours.
📵 Cell Service
- Cell service is not typical at event locations. You should ensure all guests have printed directions to the event locations prior to arriving at the park.
🔒🌲 Privacy
- The wedding permit does not allow your ceremony to restrict other park visitors from your chosen location nor does it guarantee you a specific site. It is recommended that you schedule your ceremony for early or late in the day. By doing so, your wedding will have more privacy.
- Any activity not allowed by the general public will not be allowed by a wedding party.
📜💍 Officiant
- You will need to provide your own officiant for your ceremony. Refer to the California Department of Public Health’s marriage license, registration, and ceremony information web page for information on marriage laws in California.
🎉🏛️ Receptions
- Receptions may be held only in concessioner facilities or on private property.
- 🍽️🏨 Delaware North Parks & Resorts have facilities in both parks. DNC provides food service, lodging, grocery, and gift shops as well as catering services for receptions. To reserve an area for a wedding reception at a location operated by Delaware North, please visit their website at www.visitsequoia.com.
Parking and Vehicles
- All vehicles, including motorcycles, must be parked in designated areas only; no off-road traffic is permitted. Parking is limited, so it is recommended that all wedding participants and guests carpool to the site.
- Shuttles are available in the Giant Forest and Lodgepole areas in the summer and on special holiday dates. Please check the Park Shuttles webpage for more details and route information.
- Special conveyances, including but not limited to horse-drawn carriages and hot air balloons, are prohibited.
Timing & Weather: What’s The Perfect Time to Elope in Sequoia National Park?
Sequoia National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, this means you can elope whenever you want throughout the year. Sequoia National Park transforms beautifully with each season, offering unique experiences depending on when you visit. Here’s what to expect throughout the year:
Spring Elopement (March – May) 🌼🌿
Spring can be very unpredictable in Sequoia National Park. It can be very sunny or have some snow. Planning a spring elopement is too unpredictable in my opinion. It’s best to wait until June.
- 🌼🌿 Wildflowers begin to bloom at lower elevations, creating colorful landscapes.
- 🌊💦 Rivers and waterfalls are at their fullest due to melting snow.
- ❄️🌲 Higher elevations, including the Giant Forest, may still have snow into early spring.
- 🤫🏞️ Fewer crowds compared to summer, making it a peaceful time to visit.
- 🚧❄️ Some roads and trails may still be closed due to lingering snow.
Summer Elopement (June – August) ☀️🏕
Summer is by far the most popular time to elope in Sequoia National Park, so remember that there will be a lot more people and tourists! Nevertheless, it is the best time to elope if you are hoping to have a hiking elopement! By June, the snow has disappeared and the trails are safe to hike. Do keep in mind that if you decide to have a Sequoia National Park elopement in late summer and fall, wildfire season begins, so make sure you are aware of the conditions and are always being kept up to date on the National Park’s website!
- ☀️ Warm, sunny weather makes it the most popular time to visit.
- 🛤️ All roads, trails, and high-elevation areas are accessible.
- 🥾🏕️✨ Perfect for hiking, camping, and stargazing. 🚶♂️🚶♀️
- Expect larger crowds, especially around the General Sherman Tree and Moro Rock.
- ⛈️ Afternoon thunderstorms are possible, so be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Fall Elopement (September – November) 🍂🍁
The Fall season in Sequoia National Park is pretty short and the temperature starts to cool down in September while the snow comes around in October, so if you aren’t into eloping in the cold then eloping in Sequoia National Park in the Fall might not be for you. You also want to remember that this time is when road closures may occur because they are cleaning the roads off from the start of the snow season.
Fall (September – November) 🍂🍁
- ❄️🚗 Early snowstorms can occur in November, so check road conditions before visiting.
- 🍂🥾 Crisp air and cooler temperatures create ideal hiking conditions.
- 🌾🍁 Golden fall foliage in the meadows.
- 🤫🚶♂️ Fewer visitors, making it a great time for a more private experience.
- 🐻🍂 Wildlife, including black bears, is more active as they prepare for winter.
If you are into snow elopements then this is the dreamiest time for you! The best part about eloping during the snow season is that there are fewer crowds and the fall foliage and snow are extremely beautiful!
Winter Elopement (December – February) ❄️🏔
If you want your elopement to be a winter wonderland, then this is the dreamiest time for you! The best part about eloping during the snow season is that there are fewer crowds and the fall foliage and snow are extremely beautiful! Winter elopements can be such a magical time to elope in Sequoia National Park though, there can be some complications as well! Be aware of the snow storms and road closures. It is also a must that you have snow chains as it’s required when driving around here in the wintertime!
- ❄️🌲✨ A true winter wonderland, with deep snow covering the Giant Forest and higher elevations.
- 🤫🏔️ Fewer crowds, offering a peaceful and magical experience.
- ⛷️🥾📸 Ideal for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter photography.
- 🚧❄️ Some roads, including Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow Road, close due to snow.
- 🚗🔗 Chains or snow tires are often required for driving in the park.
General Smoke Expectations
You will want to consider when the park conducts its controlled burns. I personally think the smoke can create a mystical look among the trees, but depending on your preferences, and whether you are comfortable breathing in smoke, which can be a health hazard, you will want to consider this.
I’ve pasted this directly from the Sequoia and Kings National Park website!
Below are estimated anticipated smoke impacts that may occur at each specific wedding location if a prescribed burn is taking place in the area. Please be aware that fire and smoke can be present at any time and that the times listed for each location are estimates only. Prescribed burning is dependent on weather, site conditions, fire personnel staffing, and air quality.
Giant Forest Area (Sequoia National Park)
Typically burned sometime from late May to July and/or late September to winter
- Beetle Rock – Light to moderate smoke can be anticipated from any active burns
- Halstead Meadow – Negligible light smoke may drift over from Giant Forest prescribed burns
- Crescent Meadow – Heavy smoke can be anticipated in the morning hours
- Long Meadow / Wolverton – Light to moderate drift smoke may settle
North Fork / Dorst Area (Sequoia National Park)
Typically fall / late fall burn window
- Lost Grove – Light smoke in the morning, along with fire personnel and equipment in the area.
Grant Grove Area (Kings Canyon National Park)
Typically fall / late fall, but potential for early summer
- Panoramic Point – Light to moderate smoke may drift across Panoramic Point in the morning hours.
- Muir Rock/Roads End – Negligible light smoke may settle into the canyon from Grant Grove prescribed burns
Best Locations
🌲 Where are the best places to elope in Sequoia National Park?
- Popular spots include:
- Beetle Rock (easier access, great sunset views)
- Crescent Meadow (lush forest setting)
- Tunnel Log (iconic backdrop)
- General Sherman Tree area (the world’s largest tree. I recommend visiting this Tree during your trip. I do not recommend coming here for your elopement.)
- Moro Rock (epic views, but requires stairs. I do not take couples here on their elopement day. This is better to visit during your trip.)
💍 Are there secluded locations for a private ceremony?
- It’s not reasonable to expect that any area will be 100% secluded for your ceremony since you are having a ceremony on public land, but your experienced Sequoia photographer will do their best to guide you to more secluded areas of the park for a more private ceremony. For a happy experience, it’s best to embrace that there will be other visitors there! And they will congratulate you along the trail!
Lodging & Travel For Your Sequoia National Park Elopement
🛎️🌲 Where should we stay when eloping in Sequoia?
- Options include:
- Wuksachi Lodge (inside the park, rustic vibes)
- Vacation rentals and hotels in Three Rivers (just outside the park)
🚗 🗺️ How far is Sequoia National Park from major cities?
- About 4.5 hours from Los Angeles and 4 hours from San Francisco.
- The town of Visalia is located in the foothills.
🥂 🎂 Are there good spots for a post-elopement picnic or celebration?
- Yes! Crescent Meadow and Halstead Meadow have scenic areas for a small gathering to cut your elopement cake, have a champagne toast, etc. However, you should not plan on having a really formal reception at the picnic area.
Photography & Vendors
📸 Do we need to hire a local photographer or vendor?
- While not required, a local photographer familiar with Sequoia’s lighting, weather, and locations can be a huge advantage.
Learn more about your Sequoia National Park elopement experience with me!
🚁 Are drones allowed for wedding photography?
- No, drones are prohibited in all U.S. national parks, including Sequoia.
Let’s Work Together For Your Sequoia National Park Elopement!
If you are looking for a Sequoia photographer to help you plan your Sequoia National Park elopement, you’ve come to the right place! I’d love to capture your special day at this unforgettable elopement location!
Get in touch to start your elopement adventure!
