For those couples interested in a location that will be both humble and inspire on the Big Day, consider the simple elegance of a little wooden chapel in the grandest cathedral of all –Yosemite National Park.

Nestled in the deep woods on the valley floor, and surrounded by majestic granite monoliths with famous names like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Glacier Point, this diminutive New England chapel has been the site of inter-denominational weddings for over 125 years.

The surroundings are sure to please

Following the ceremony, as newlyweds and guests exit the church, the first thing their eyes feast upon is the magnificent 2,500 foot-high Yosemite Falls. Three times higher than Niagara, the great Yosemite cascade is located just across a golden meadow from the chapel site (see photos). Nothing matches this setting for grandeur and splendor.

After you have had your fill of the wonders surrounding the chapel, take a short drive past Bridalveil Falls to Inspiration Point – and Glacier Point beyond. Bring your photographer and/or cameras for wedding pictures with the most breathtaking of backdrops.

Head back down the mountain to rooms at the Yosemite View Lodge, which overlooks the rushing Merced River and is just minutes from the southern entrance to the park on state highway 140. The Lodge has 335 spacious rooms, many with fireplaces and spa tubs.

The best bridal suite near Yosemite Park

The Yosemite View Lodge has very special accommodations for the bride and groom. The lodge has magnificent bridal suites complete with kitchen, living area with fireplace, and unbeatable views of the Merced River. There are also gas fireplace-heaters in the bedroom and bath, an indoor Jacuzzi tub, and a waterfall shower that is as fantastic as it is unusual.

Local reception hall

Check out the conference room at Cedar Lodge. Both Yosemite View Lodge and Cedar Lodge are owned by the same company. Cedar Lodge is an easy seven miles from Yosemite View Lodge on a road that meanders along the picturesque Merced River.

Of course, there are many other wedding options in and around Yosemite Park. We mention this one because, after extensive research on the subject, it was the one we chose for our own Big Day.

Check the Yosemite Community Church (a.k.a. the little wooden chapel) for more wedding information at www.yosemitevalleychapel.org There is no toll free number, but the local number is 209-372-4831.

The Yosemite View Lodge website is www.yosemite-motels.com/yosemiteviewlodge. The Lodge’s toll free number is 888-742-4371

Good luck – and happy travels.

© Travels with Wayne and Judy (syndicated)
Photos © Wayne and Judy Bayliff