3 Day Yosemite Adventure Wedding With Overnight Camping at North Dome
Attention all nature lovers—this real Yosemite adventure wedding is the ultimate inspiration! Imagine having a sky full of stars witnessing your own love story after an unforgettable day exploring Yosemite’s breathtaking landscapes. Blessy and Colin embraced the wild beauty of the park, turning their wedding into an extraordinary experience. From golden sunsets over the valley to peaceful mornings bathed in dawn’s soft hues, their celebration was more than just a ceremony—it was a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that blends adventure with nature’s grandeur, let their story spark your own Yosemite adventure wedding.
Blessy and Colin’s Yosemite adventure wedding not only celebrated their union but also their shared love for nature and adventure. It stands as a testament to the possibilities that await those who dare to intertwine their love story with the wonders of the natural world.
A Change in Plans Leads to a Grand Adventure
From the very beginning, Blessy and Colin knew they wanted Half Dome to be a part of their wedding photos. Originally, they planned an intimate ceremony at Glacier Point, a location renowned for its panoramic views of Half Dome and easy access for their guests. However, an unexpected road closure for maintenance forced them to rethink their plans. Instead of being discouraged, they embraced the opportunity for a more adventurous approach.
That’s when they found me! After connecting on the phone, I learned about their love for camping and their deep connection to Yosemite National Park. I proposed an idea that turned out to be the perfect fit: a personalized Yosemite adventure wedding split into two parts—a backpacking trip to North Dome for an intimate first look and dance, followed by a wedding ceremony at Cathedral Beach with their closest loved ones.
The Perfect Yosemite Adventure Wedding Schedule
Here’s how their Yosemite adventure wedding unfolded:
Day 1:
- Hike to North Dome starting at 9 AM
- First look and first dance at sunset
- Night photography session before bed
Day 2:
- Starry night photo session right before sunrise photo session
- Hike back down to relax before the wedding ceremony day
Day 3:
- Wedding ceremony at Cathedral Beach with loved ones
Excited by this new plan, Blessy and Colin jumped in without hesitation. My partner, Derek, an experienced outdoorsman, joined us to assist with the adventure. We secured a wilderness permit for our overnight stay at North Dome the following week, ensuring we could fully immerse ourselves in Yosemite’s beauty.
The Backpacking Journey Begins
On the first day of their Yosemite adventure wedding, we met at the Porcupine Creek trailhead at 9 AM. The hike to North Dome was no small feat—a 10 mile round trip trek with elevation changes and switchbacks. But Blessy and Colin’s excitement never wavered. Their adventurous spirit was contagious, fueling our enthusiasm for the journey ahead.
With all our gear packed—including photography and video equipment—we hit the trail. The couple carried their wedding attire along with their backpacking essentials. Each step symbolized the journey they had taken together, leading to this incredible moment. After five miles of hiking, we were greeted by a stunning view of Half Dome, towering majestically over the valley below.
Nature’s Unpredictable Beauty
Upon reaching North Dome, we planned for a sunset first look with Half Dome as the backdrop. However, nature had a surprise in store. As we set up camp, dark clouds gathered, and the wind picked up. A storm was rolling in. We quickly took shelter in our tents, uncertain if our sunset plans would be possible.
Then, as if on cue, the storm passed, leaving behind a breathtaking golden glow. We stepped out to see Half Dome bathed in the warm light of the setting sun. It was a moment of pure magic. Colin laughed, saying, “It took four natural disasters, but look where we are.” The couple shared their first dance as the sun dipped below the horizon, creating a dreamy, unforgettable scene.
After dinner, we experimented with night photography. With the moonlight illuminating their silhouettes against the vast Yosemite sky, we captured some of the most intimate and unique shots of the entire adventure. Despite the early morning wake-up call for stargazing shots, Blessy and Colin were all in. The reward was well worth it—deep purples and warm oranges painted the sky, creating a fleeting yet unforgettable backdrop.
A Heartfelt Ceremony at Cathedral Beach
After hiking back down, the couple reunited with their loved ones for a relaxed day at an Airbnb outside the park. The next morning, their official wedding ceremony took place at Cathedral Beach, a serene location in Yosemite Valley with El Capitan standing tall in the background.
With a small group of family and friends, they exchanged heartfelt vows by the riverbank. The towering evergreens and gentle sounds of the flowing water added to the intimate atmosphere. As they were pronounced husband and wife, their loved ones showered them with bubbles, celebrating this beautiful union.
Following the ceremony, we captured group and individual photos with the family. Then, in a nod to their shared love of animals, the newlyweds cut a personalized cake featuring all the pets they’ve had together. Laughter, champagne, and cake made for a joyful and heartfelt celebration.
A Magical Surprise to End the Day
Just when we thought the day couldn’t be more perfect, a group of deer wandered up to the ceremony site. Blessy and Colin, brimming with excitement, quietly squealed so as not to startle the animals. It was a surreal, almost symbolic moment—a gift from nature on their special day.
Watch Blessy & Colin’s Yosemite Adventure Wedding Video
Yes! We are an adventure-loving photo and video duo team, passionate about capturing epic love stories in breathtaking natural settings.
Specializing in Yosemite adventure weddings and elopements, our highly customizable photo and video packages are tailored to create an unique and personalized outdoor wedding experience for your one-of-a-kind love story.
Reflecting on an Unforgettable Experience
Documenting Blessy and Colin’s Yosemite adventure wedding was an incredible experience, not just for them but for Derek and I as well. Seeing their love unfold in such a stunning and wild setting was both inspiring and humbling.
This wedding was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences I’ve ever had the privilege of capturing. It reinforced my passion for documenting couples who embrace adventure and celebrate love in their own unique way. Yosemite’s raw beauty, paired with Blessy and Colin’s unwavering spirit, created a once-in-a-lifetime wedding that will forever be etched in my memory.
Blessy and Colin, thank you for allowing Derek and I to be part of your extraordinary Yosemite adventure wedding. Your love story is as wild and beautiful as the landscapes we explored. And we can’t wait to capture more magical Yosemite adventure weddings in the future!
Are you interested in having your own Yosemite adventure wedding? Explore wilderness camping permits, wedding permits, and our essential planning resources and tips to make it happen. Or, let us help! Use our free planning assistant to craft a Yosemite adventure wedding experience designed JUST FOR YOU!
