Summertime Mammoth Lakes Elopement

For Shanuessy and Tyson, a Mammoth Lakes elopement just made sense. For the two of them, Mammoth Lakes has always been more than just a summer getaway; it’s a place where their best memories come to life. Every year, they’d set up camp under the star-studded sky, exploring the remote trails and crystal-clear lakes that make this corner of California so special.

When it came time to say “I do,” a big wedding just wasn’t their style. Instead, they wanted a day that felt true to them—intimate, laid-back, in a place that they felt comfortable in and focused completely on their connection. In this post, we’ll take you through the details of their beautiful elopement day, the top spots in Mammoth Lakes to tie the knot, where to stay for the perfect experience, essential permit info, and why this place is an unbeatable choice for your own adventure elopement. Let’s dive in!

Shanuessy and Tyson kicked off their Mammoth Lakes elopement with a full week of camping at one of the forested campgrounds near the Emerald Lake trailhead, where they would later say their vows. But for the night before and the night of their elopement, they opted for a touch of comfort and stayed at the Westin in Mammoth Lakes. The hotel was the perfect spot for them to start their day. Shaunessy went for a run to calm her nerves and then they soaked in the hotel’s hot tub. Then they started getting ready, Shaunessy doing her hair and makeup, and Tyson packing up the car, making sure they had everything they would need for their elopement adventure. 

Once the morning excitement was underway, Shaunessy and Tyson made their way to their cozy campsite, which they graciously let Brian and I use for those two nights. Tyson and Shaunessy finished getting dressed there, adding the final touches surrounded by tall pines and crisp mountain air. Their Subaru, complete with its pop-top tent where they usually slept on camping trips, became part of the story. We hung Shaunessy’s dress and Tyson’s suit on the edges of the tent, snapping some fun, candid detail shots. 

Shaunessy then used our van to get dressed in, while Tyson stepped into a pop up changing room they had staged near their campsite. Brian walked Tyson back to a private spot for their first look, while Becky helped Shaunessy tie the back of her dress.

Once they were all ready, Shaunessy walked over towards Tyson who stood next to a trickling creek, the afternoon light filtered through the trees, hitting Shaunessy’s dress, making the sparkles dance in the sunlight. It was a moment that felt suspended in time—pure, intimate, and perfectly them.

After their heartfelt first look, we set off for the Emerald Lake trailhead in the Inyo National Forest. The hike to the lake is about 2 miles long with a manageable 400 ft elevation gain, but don’t be fooled—the trailhead begins at 8,900 ft, so the altitude adds a little extra challenge, especially if you’re not used to it. As we made our way up, the path wound through towering trees and alongside the soothing rush of Coldwater Creek, with impressive boulders scattered throughout the landscape. California is full of incredible elopement locations and we highlight some of our favorites in this blog post.

Reaching Emerald Lake was like stepping into a dream. The clear waters mirrored the jagged, majestic peaks of the Eastern Sierra, creating a breathtaking backdrop that felt almost too perfect to be real. And the best part? We had it all to ourselves. In the quiet beauty of this secluded spot, I officiated Shaunessy and Tyson’s ceremony as they exchanged their vows, surrounded by nothing but the stillness of nature and the whispers of the mountain breeze. It was perfect.

After the ceremony, we took some time to explore around Emerald Lake, soaking in the serene beauty of the place. It wasn’t long before we came across another couple who had also exchanged vows in the Eastern Sierra wilderness—over 30 years ago. They greeted Shaunessy and Tyson with warm wishes and a knowing smile, their dogs trotting happily by their side. It was so special to come across another couple who felt the same passion for this area and who had also chosen to celebrate their love in a unique way.

Before hiking back to the campsite, Shaunessy had a special surprise for Tyson: a denim jacket she had hand-crafted, complete with his last name in sparkling, bedazzled jewels across the back. Tyson’s face lit up with genuine surprise and admiration. We took our time on the hike back, pausing for some fun shots with the trail signs before reaching the van. 

Next on the agenda was catching the sunset at the Twin Falls overlook, just a short drive up the road. The golden hour painted the sky in hues of orange and pink as they popped open a bottle of their favorite sparkling Malbec and toasted to the day. As we drove back to the campsite, luck was on our side—we spotted a black bear strolling along the shore of Lake Mary, an exciting spotting that was the icing on the cake of an awesome day.

Once we arrived at the campground, we capped off the evening by lighting a campfire. Shaunessy and Tyson roasted marshmallows and made s’mores, laughter and stories filling the chilly mountain air. It was the perfect end to a day full of love, adventure, and memories they’d carry forever.

For Shanuessy and Tyson, Emerald Lake was the perfect spot to exchange their vows. This tucked-away lake offers stunning mountain views, crystal-clear waters, and the kind of peaceful seclusion that makes an elopement feel extra special. Plus it’s a fairly short and easy hike, which made it even more appealing. It’s easy to see why this spot captured their hearts!

But Emerald Lake is just one of the many incredible locations in the Mammoth Lakes area. If you’re considering an elopement here, you have your choice of amazing backdrops! Here are a few other beautiful spots nearby that offer a range of landscapes and vibes, each one bringing something unique to your elopement experience:

1. Convict Lake – Known for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop, Convict Lake is an unforgettable setting. It’s especially peaceful in the early morning or late afternoon light. (You can find more details in our blog post about Convict Lake.)
2. Crystal Lake – Tucked above Lake George, Crystal Lake offers a peaceful escape with crystal-clear water and panoramic mountain views. The moderate hike to reach it makes it less crowded, giving you a more intimate experience.
3. Gull Lake – Set within June Lake Loop, Gull Lake has a quiet, cozy charm surrounded by trees and mountain views. It’s perfect if you want a secluded, yet accessible, lakeside ceremony.
4. Parker Lake – This spot requires a scenic hike through aspen groves, ending with the beautiful Parker Lake nestled at the foot of towering peaks. It’s a really pretty location, especially stunning during fall when the aspens are golden.
5. Virginia Lake – Located a bit further north, Virginia Lake is a peaceful, less-trafficked spot with incredible mountain reflections. It’s a hidden gem if you want a serene, alpine feel for your ceremony.
6. Saddlebag Lake – Near the eastern entrance to Yosemite, Saddlebag Lake is accessible yet remote, with a rugged beauty and dramatic views. It’s a prime spot if you’re looking to blend adventure and seclusion.
7. McGee Creek Canyon – This lesser-known spot offers dramatic canyon views, lush foliage, and beautiful mountains. It’s accessible by trail, making it an ideal choice for a private elopement location.
8. Lundy Canyon – A stunning spot especially vibrant in the fall, Lundy Canyon offers waterfalls, aspen groves, and rugged cliffs. It’s if you’re wanting a unique, natural backdrop with rich colors and a sense of solitude.

Choosing the right season for your Mammoth Lakes elopement can make a huge difference in the experience! Shaunessy and Tyson chose to elope in August, taking advantage of the warm summer days and clear skies. Even thought it was warm during the day, the nights still got pretty chilly since we were up at almost 9,000 feet elevation.

Summer in Mammoth Lakes is beautiful, with lush green landscapes, sunny weather, and perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. However, it’s worth noting that wildfire season typically peaks in late summer, so smoky skies and road closures can be unpredictable. It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan, just in case.

If you’re looking for the most vibrant scenery without the wildfire risks, late spring and late fall are excellent alternatives. In spring, the snowmelt fills rivers and lakes, and the trails start to open up, giving you lush landscapes and fewer visitors. Meanwhile, fall brings breathtaking golden hues to the aspen trees, especially around Parker Lake and Lundy Canyon, making it a perfect time for a colorful elopement.

For those who love winter, Mammoth Lakes transforms into a snowy wonderland. While winter elopements here can be magical, keep in mind that access to some trails and high-altitude locations may be limited due to heavy snowfall. However, if you’re up for an adventure, your winter elopement can include fun snow activities like skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and more! If you need some ideas for fun elopement activities, check out this blog post.

Each season in Mammoth Lakes offers something unique. It all comes down to the vibe you’re envisioning and the level of adventure you’re looking for!

Mammoth Lakes is one of our favorite places to help couples create unforgettable elopement memories. Having both lived in Yosemite, we’re not only familiar with the beauty of the Sierras but have spent countless days exploring the eastern side—hiking its trails, soaking in hidden hot springs, and discovering the best local spots to eat and unwind. This side of the Sierras feels like home to us, and we love sharing that insider knowledge with couples looking for a unique, adventurous experience here.

With years of experience capturing and planning elopements in the Mammoth Lakes area, we know the perfect spots for stunning photos, the best times to visit each location, and the little details (like permits and secluded spots) that make all the difference. When you work with us, you’re not only getting experienced photographers but also local guides and dedicated planners to make your day seamless and unforgettable.

Our Elopement Packages: We offer packages tailored to fit every couple’s vision, from intimate half-day sessions to multi-day adventures exploring the best of Mammoth Lakes. Whether you want a simple ceremony by the lake or an adventure-filled elopement weekend, we’ve got a package that will bring your vision to life.