How To Elope In A National Park: Everything You Need To Know!

Eloping in a national park combines the beauty of nature with the intimacy of a private ceremony. The stunning landscapes and serene environments make national parks perfect for couples who want a unique and memorable wedding. If you're dreaming of a national park wedding, here's everything you need to know to plan your perfect day, from permits to location choices, with insights into popular spots like Yosemite, Glacier National Park and more.


Why Choose a National Park for Your Elopement?

National parks offer breathtaking backdrops that make your wedding photos look like scenes from a fairytale. From towering mountains and cascading waterfalls to lush forests and serene lakes, the natural beauty of these locations provides a stunning and romantic setting for your vows. Additionally, eloping in a national park often means a simpler, more intimate ceremony without the stress of a traditional wedding.


Steps to Planning Your National Park Elopement:

  1. Choose Your Location: Decide which national park best fits your vision. Each park has unique features and vibes. For instance, a Yosemite elopement offers iconic granite cliffs and waterfalls, while a Glacier National Park elopement provides rugged mountains and pristine lakes.
  2. Check Permit Requirements: Most national parks require a special use permit for weddings and elopements. Contact the park's administration office or visit their website to understand the application process, fees, and any restrictions. It’s recommended to apply for the permit well in advance, as popular parks can have a high demand for these permits. As your photographer, I will assist you in navigating the permit process to ensure everything is handled smoothly.
  3. Plan Your Ceremony: Once you have your permit, plan the details of your ceremony. Consider the time of day, as lighting can dramatically affect your photos. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times for a national park wedding, offering soft, golden light. To get the most out of your national park elopement experience (and photos!), it's best to plan to be out during both sunrise and sunset, and perhaps take a break in the middle of the day.
  4. Hire a Photographer: A photographer familiar with the park can make a big difference in capturing your day. They’ll know the best spots, the right times for perfect lighting, and can help navigate any challenges that might arise.
  5. Think About Logistics: Start to think about if you want any guests, and who those guests would be. Do you want an officiant to accompany you or would you prefer to complete the legal part separately? Is there any excursions you'd like to incorporate in your day like a more advanced hike, rock-climbing, taking a canoe out on a lake or a helicopter ride?
  6. Create a Detailed Itinerary: Work with your photographer to create a timeline for your elopement day, including travel time within the park, the ceremony, photo sessions, and any activities or excursions. A well-thought-out schedule helps ensure everything runs smoothly.
  7. Prepare for the Elements: National parks can have unpredictable weather, so be prepared. Bring layers, comfortable shoes, and any necessary gear to stay comfortable and safe. Expect the unexpected and if there's rain, snow, wind or fog, embrace the unique beauty these elements can bring to your day and your elopement photos, often creating a magical and dramatic atmosphere. Check the weather forecast leading up to your day and make sure you or your photographer has a backup plan if conditions are extreme or change unexpectedly.


Popular National Parks for Elopements

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK


A Yosemite elopement is perfect for couples who love dramatic landscapes and iconic scenery. Yosemite Valley is famous for its towering granite cliffs, including El Capitan and Half Dome, and stunning waterfalls like Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls.


Best Spots: Glacier Point offers panoramic views of the iconic Half Dome, while Taft Point provides dramatic breathtaking views at sunset. Yosemite Valley provides a classic setting with iconic locations like Yosemite Falls and El Capitan Meadow. Tunnel View is perfect for easily accessible sweeping vistas. For more adventurous couples, Mist Trail offers a thrilling hike with stunning scenery including Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls.


Permits: Yosemite requires a special use permit, which costs around $150.


glacier NATIONAL PARK


A Glacier National Park elopement is ideal for adventurous couples who appreciate rugged beauty and pristine wilderness. Known for its stunning glacial lakes, diverse wildlife, and dramatic peaks, Glacier offers a serene and picturesque setting.


Best Spots: Going-to-the-Sun Road offers a spectacular drive with numerous scenic viewpoints and is a must-see for any couple eloping in Glacier National Park. Some of the best locations along Going-to-the-Sun include Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, Big Bend, Sun Point (the BEST sunrise location) among numerous others. For more adventurous couples, consider heading to the Many Glacier side of the park for a more challenging and unforgettable hiking adventure to Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake or Cracker Lack with world-class scenery that will take your breath away.


Permits: You’ll need a special use permit for ceremonies, typically costing around $100.



OTHER NATIONAL PARKS FOR ELOPEMENTS:

Redwood National and State Parks: Marvel at the towering ancient redwoods and lush, serene forests.

Joshua Tree National Park: Famous for its unique Joshua Trees and dramatic desert landscapes, perfect for a mystical and intimate ceremony.

Sequoia National Park: Home to the world’s largest trees, providing a majestic and awe-inspiring backdrop for your vows.

Grand Teton National Park: Known for its rugged mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and rich wildlife, it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers.

Mt. Rainier National Park: Offers stunning wildflower meadows, snow-capped peaks, and pristine forests, creating a picturesque and romantic setting.

Zion National Park: Famous for its towering sandstone cliffs and lush, narrow canyons, Zion provides a dramatic and enchanting backdrop for an elopement.

OTHER LOCATIONS TO CONSIDER THAT -AREN'T- A NATIONAL PARK:


Big Sur, California: Known for its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and scenic vistas, Big Sur offers an unforgettable setting for an elopement.


Lake Tahoe, California: With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and majestic mountains, Lake Tahoe provides a picturesque and serene environment for your special day.


McKenzie River, Oregon: Nestled in lush moss-covered forests with cascading waterfalls and serene river views, the McKenzie River area offers a tranquil and romantic backdrop.


Crested Butte, Colorado: Surrounded by stunning mountains and golden aspen groves in the autumn, Crested Butte is perfect for couples who love the great outdoors and breathtaking scenery.



TIPS FOR A SEAMLESS NATIONAL PARK ELOPEMENT:

Respect Park Rules and Guidelines: National parks have rules to protect their natural beauty. Follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife. This ensures that these beautiful places remain pristine for future visitors.

Plan for Accessibility: Some spots in national parks can be challenging to reach. Make sure all your guests (if any) can comfortably access your chosen location. Consider the distance, terrain, and available facilities.

Hire Local Vendors: Local vendors are familiar with the park and can provide valuable insights and services. From florists and officiants to hair & makeup artists, choosing local professionals can make your day smoother.

Embrace the Adventure: Eloping in a national park is an adventure in itself. Embrace the journey, the unexpected moments, and the unparalleled beauty of your surroundings.


A national park wedding offers an intimate, adventurous, and breathtakingly beautiful way to say "I do." By choosing the right location, securing the necessary permits, and planning carefully, you can create a magical elopement that reflects your love for each other and the great outdoors. Whether you dream of the granite cliffs and towering waterfalls of Yosemite, the glacial beauty of Glacier National Park, the desert wonderland of Joshua Tree, the ancient Redwoods or Sequoias, the rugged Grand Tetons, the picturesque Mt Rainier, or one of the many other iconic national parks, your elopement will be a cherished memory for a lifetime. Each of these parks offers its own unique charm and breathtaking beauty, perfect for creating the elopement of your dreams.


Say hello. Let's start planning your dream national park elopement!

General area such as the state, region or national park is perfect if you don't know an exact location yet!