Fall time in the Eastern Sierra is easily one of the most magical times of the year. Itzel and Ryan decided that being in June Lake fall colors on their wedding day would be a priority. And with being avid hikers themselves they decided that hiking after their ceremony was absolutely necessary! Fall colors and hiking in the Eastern Sierra? Easy money. 

Planning For June Lake Fall Colors

First things first; location scouting. If you aren’t familiar with the fall colors in the Eastern Sierra, then you should know that colors change QUICK, like we’re talking in the matter of a day. So creating location options A, B and C for the best colors was a must. I love using this interactive map for real time updates on where the colors are popping off at! Once we decided on the location and location backups, we worked together to create their custom timeline to find the best lighting at every location

First Look

After months of planning and location scouting to find the perfect spots for June Lake fall colors, the big day came. Itzel and Ryan wanted to do a first look alone before their intimate ceremony with family. We met in the parking lot and I made sure Itzel was tucked away in her car as I took Ryan through the most fabulous grove of yellow aspens. Once he was all set, I had my wonderful second shooter (shout out to Nicole) bring Itzel down and told her to take some deep breaths before tapping Ryan on the shoulder. OH LORDY, I was not ready for how beautifully emotional it was! I’m such a sympathetic cryer so I definitely shed a few tears! 

The Fall Colors Ceremony

We had originally planned to do their ceremony at the front of the lake but once we got over there, the wind was blowing pretty dang hard so we called an audible and moved back to the aspen grove where we did their first look. The beauty of elopements! I had the immense pleasure of marrying Itzel and Ryan and after exchanging beautiful written vows, I pronounced them husband and wife! We did some group photos in the grove then we headed out for our hike! 

The June Lake Hike

After a little dirt road adventure to the trail head, Itzel and Ryan geared up at their cars. We made sure we had extra layers, head lamps, snacks, hot beverages, hand warmers, small backpacking chairs and all necessary gear! We made sure to build in enough time to get to the lake for sunset while stopping along the way for views and breaks. 

Once we got to the lake, we explored around, first crossing some logs to get to a small aspen grove. We then made our way to the other side and set up some chairs for a little break, a champagne toast and a small “cake cutting” of sorts. Itzel and Ryan had brought these insanely delicious chocolates from San Francisco, they kindly let me try some and oh my goodness, I think they changed my life! 

After a little snacking and making some hot beverages, we set out for some alpine glow photos lake side. We then pulled out my favorite lanterns and got some gorgeous dusk photos before heading back down to the parking lot. Before leaving, we pulled on our headlamps and extra layers! (always gotta stay warm!). By the time we got back to the car, the milky way was out in full view! We couldn’t pass up the opportunity so we took a few minutes to snap a couple of amazing star photos before wrapping for the day. 

The Perfect Ending to a Perfect Day

Itzel and Ryan wanted a day that prioritized THEM, not what anyone else wanted. And honestly? That is exactly what an elopement should be all about. From crying in the aspen groves and dodging the wind, to eating life-changing chocolates by a high-alpine lake and standing under the Milky Way; Itzel and Ryan’s day was 100% them.

I am still pinching myself that I got to marry these two incredible humans and document such a rad adventure. Itzel and Ryan, thank you for trusting me to help plan and capture your magical June Lake elopement. May your marriage be filled with endless miles of trails, cozy campfires, and plenty more delicious snacks!

Are you ready to throw out the traditional wedding rulebook and plan an Eastern Sierra adventure of your own? Let’s chat and make it happen!