How to Elope in a National Park
Plan the most incredible national park elopement with insight on my favorite parks, obtaining permits, the cost, and more in this ultimate guide.
How to Elope in a National Park
Planning a national park elopement definitely takes a lot of work behind-the-scenes, but before we get into all the specifics, here’s a quick summary of the big things you’ll need to think about!
First off, you’ll want to narrow down which national park feels right for your day. Maybe you already know the exact spot, or maybe it’ll take a little exploring to find the one that fits your vibe. From there, you’ll need to look into permits, as these are a must and vary from park to park. (If you’re working with me, I can totally help with that part!)
Next, you’ll need to choose your ceremony location within the park. Most national parks have designated spots where ceremonies are allowed, so you’ll want to check out those options and pick your favorite. You can’t forget to book a photographer you vibe with. This day is one of a kind, and you’ll want all those memories captured beautifully!
And of course, there’s all the other planning details, like where you’re staying, how you’re getting there, what you’re wearing, and so on. It’s can all feel like a lot to handle, but totally worth it for the kind of day you’ll never forget.
National Park Elopement vs. Wedding
So, what’s the difference between getting married in a national park as an elopement vs. a full-on wedding? It mostly comes down to the size of your guest list. An elopement usually means it’s just the two of you, or maybe a few close people (think 10 or fewer). Once you start inviting more friends and family, it starts leaning into micro wedding territory, and that can change a lot of your planning aspects.
National parks aren’t exactly set up for big weddings, with limited parking, restricted ceremony sites, and very little wiggle room for things like guest seating or setup. Some parks even make it easier for smaller groups by waiving permit requirements if you’re under a certain number of guests (often under 10).
Keeping it small can seriously simplify everything. But if you’re still dreaming of celebrating with your people, you can always throw a fun reception later on. That way, you get the best of both worlds: a quiet, epic ceremony in nature and a party with your favorite people afterward!
National Park Permits for an Elopement
If you're thinking about eloping in a national park, getting a permit is one of those non-negotiables. It’s not just a formality! It helps protect the landscapes, wildlife, and overall vibe of the park so people can continue enjoying it for years to come. It might feel like an annoying extra step (or an extra cost), but skipping it could actually lead to some pretty big fines, and that’s a much bigger hassle than just filling out some paperwork.
When you apply for a permit through the National Park Service, you’ll need to share a few details, like your ceremony spot, date, how many guests you’ll have, and any setup you’re planning. Some parks limit group size or restrict access to certain areas, so doing your homework ahead of time is super important. At the end of the day, getting that permit is just part of showing love and respect for the amazing places we get to celebrate in.
Cost of National Park Elopement
The cost of a national park elopement permit depends on which park you choose. Some parks charge less, some more, and it usually comes down to how popular the park is, how big it is, and how fragile the environment might be. For example, Glacier might only charge around $125, while a place like Yosemite could be up to $250. On top of that, don’t forget about other potential expenses like travel, a place to stay, your outfits, and any little extras like flowers or decor.
That said, it’s super easy to keep things simple and budget-friendly. One of the best parts about eloping in a national park is that the scenery does all the work for you. You don’t need much to make it feel magical, and no matter what you spend, it’ll still be way less than a big, traditional wedding.
National Park Elopement + Guests
Keeping your guest list small for a national park elopement can definitely be tough, especially if you have a large family and a big group of friends, but I always suggest keeping it under 10 if possible. Smaller groups are just easier on the environment, and it’s much simpler to stick to Leave No Trace guidelines. While some parks do allow larger groups in certain areas (like amphitheaters or designated sites), those spots often feel more crowded and come with a bunch of extra rules.
If you’re dreaming of having more of your crew with you, consider holding your ceremony just outside the park instead. You can rent a nearby Airbnb, VRBO, or even book a cozy lodge or glamping spot that’s set up for events. That way, you get the best of both worlds by celebrating with your people, then still sneaking off into the park for those incredible photos.
Whether you keep it super intimate or bring everyone along for the ride, it’s all about creating a day that feels like you two.
When to Elope in a National Park
The best time to elope really comes down to which national park you’re thinking about and what kind of scenery you’re dreaming of. Want desert vibes? Places like Joshua Tree are super easy to access pretty much all year. But if you’re picturing mountains and alpine lakes, as you’d find in Glacier or Mount Rainier, you’ll be working with a shorter season due to snow and road closures.
Some parks are extra magical during certain times too, like Yosemite in spring when the waterfalls are going full force. It’s all about finding what fits your vision, and I’m happy to help you figure that out!
If you're hoping for a more quiet and private ceremony, I’d suggest avoiding the summer months if possible. That’s peak tourist season, and national parks get really busy. To dodge the crowds, try planning for late spring or early fall—still great weather, but way fewer people.
And if summer is the only thing that works for you? Go for a sunrise elopement. You’ll get gorgeous light and a lot more space to yourselves.
Choosing an Elopement Location
One of the hardest parts is choosing the location for your elopement, as the options for gorgeous national parks are endless! It all depends on the overall vibe you are looking for for your day, if you want to return to somewhere you’ve already been, or try somewhere completely new. Here are a few of my top favorites to consider!
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is such a perfect spot to elope if you’re wanting an abundance of natural beauty. You’ve got everything from quiet forest trails to dramatic mountain backdrops that make your ceremony feel incredibly romantic. It’s super peaceful, and there's just something magical about being surrounded by all the stunning scenery while you exchange vows. Whether you're hiking to a scenic overlook or keeping it simple near a lake, it’s an ideal location to say your vows and enjoy nature at the same time.
Arches National Park
The sandstone arches and dramatic desert scenery of Arches National Park make it such an ideal location for an elopement. With over 2,000 natural stone arches and countless viewpoints, it’s one of the most iconic spots in Utah. Sunrise and sunset are the perfect times for a ceremony, with golden light flooding the red rock. Plus, the colors of the scenery will really make you and your partner stand out in photos!
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is like three epic locations rolled into one, making it an unreal spot to elope in Washington. You have beautiful coastlines, lush green rainforests straight out of a fairytale, plus picturesque mountain views all in one park. Lake Crescent will give you a peaceful, romantic spot with it’s crystal clear waters, Ruby Beach has a more dramatic, coastal vibe, and nothing beats the Hoh Rainforest that feels like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. And the best part? You can choose one location for your ceremony and enjoy the rest for portraits!
Gates of the Arctic National Park
Eloping here at the Gates of the Arctic National Park is not for the faint of heart! There are no roads, marked trails or visitor centers - you’re all on your own. This means you’d have to be pretty self-sufficient and access it by a bush plane or river travel. But the scenery is absolutely incredible and you’re pretty guaranteed to run into some amazing wildlife!
Redwood National & State Parks
If a more dreamy, forest vibe is what you’re looking for, then the Redwood National & State Parks will definitely blow you away. The towering trees create a pretty romantic setting, and the way the light filters through them is stunning in photos. It also makes for a much more peaceful, and intimate ceremony, so if you want something away from the busyness and crowds, this is definitely an ideal choice! You also have a ton of variety throughout the parks, and you won’t need to hike far to find a secluded spot.
Kenai Fjords National Park
An elopement at Kenai Fjords National Park gives you access to some of Alaska’s most jaw-dropping scenery. The coastlines and large glaciers leave you pretty breathless! And if you’re a wildlife lover, you’ll see plenty of that here. You can say your vows with those gorgeous glaciers as a backdrop, or you can even experience a boat tour to get a different perpsective. It’s a little wild and remote, but that’s part of what makes it so incredible, and it’s totally worth it if you’re into adventure and stunning views.
Grand Teton National Park
Just outside of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, you’ll find the stunning Grand Teton National Park filled with the most incredible mountain views and wide-open valleys. It’s seriously one of my favorite places to shoot elopements because it feels peaceful, wild, and unreal in the best way. There are tons of amazing ceremony spots, whether you want something quiet and tucked away like Glacier View Turnout or the super romantic hilltop vibe at The Wedding Tree. And if you're into wildlife, don't be surprised if you spot a moose or even a grizzly in the distance! It’s part of what makes this place so magical.
Dry Tortugas National Park
For a more unique and off-the-grid elopement, Dry Tortugas National Park is such a wild and beautiful spot. Located about 70 miles off the coast of Key West, this remote island park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, which makes it feel like your own private paradise. The white sand beaches and bright blue water is pretty breathtaking, and such an ideal backdrop for portraits. Plus, the historic Fort Jefferson is an amazing sight! It’s a perfect choice for couples who love the ocean and want a laid-back, tropical vibe, but still looking for a bit of an adventure.
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is absolutely dreamy, and perfect if you’re up for a little adventure. Tucked away in Montana, the views here are unrivalled with the snow-capped peaks and the crystal-clear lakes. Plus the chances are high of running into wildlife, which adds a little extra fun to your day. Every bit of this place is ridiculously scenic, from the views along Going-to-the-Sun Road and the romantic setting of Lake McDonald. This couldn’t be a more magical place for an elopement!
Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is a place like no other, with a landscape that is all dramatic rock formations and colorful layered cliffs. It’s definitely different from many other elopement locations, so if you want something more unique, this is it! This park is also typically pretty quiet, so this makes it easy to find a peaceful spot to say your vows without an audience. It’s a pretty incredible spot here in the Midwest!
National Park Elopement Photographer
Hi, I’m Madison, a National Park Elopement Photographer that also travels globally! There’s so much incredible natural beauty in the parks here, and so much to explore, so I am always ready for my next elopement adventure! As your photographer, my promise is to make you feel the best version of yourself and capture you in a way that your partner sees you. So if you’re ready for help planning your national park elopement, I’m your girl! Reach out and let’s chat about your dream day!
