11 Epic Locations for Your Mountain Elopement

Plus How to Elope in the Mountains; A step-by-step guide updated for 2025

Does the idea of a mountain elopement make your heart flutter?
If so, you’re definitely not alone—because same here. As an adventure elopement photographer who is head-over-heels for alpine air, rugged trails, and sweeping summit views, the mountains truly feel like home to me. So if you’re dreaming of saying “I do” surrounded by towering peaks and fresh pine-scented breezes, and you’re thinking of bringing me along to capture the magic—know, you’re in very good hands.

Some folks think mountains are only for hardcore hikers or snow chasers, but that isn’t necessarily true! Mountain landscapes are some of the most jaw-dropping and romantic spots to elope—whether you’re on a rocky ridge, tucked away in a lush forest, or standing at the edge of a glacial lake. Some spots require some get after it hiking or gnarly off-roading… and some are an easy drive and a short walk. Whatever type of mountain adventure you’re hoping to have, there’s a spot out there that’s perfect for you.

So! I’ve put together a list of the 11 best mountain elopement locations. Plus, I’m sharing some helpful tips about each one, along with 8 key steps to plan your perfect mountain elopement.

8 Easy Steps for Planning Your Peak Existence Mountain Elopement

Step One: Pick Your Favorite Mountain Region

Let’s start big-picture. Are you drawn to the wild and moody vibes of the Pacific Northwest? The granite walls of the Sierra Nevadas? Or maybe even the Middle Earth magic of the Southern Alps in New Zealand?
Each area has its own kind of magic. Once you pick a general region, we can begin narrowing things down based on accessibility, weather, and your personal style. I’ll be right there helping you every step of the way.

Step Two: Book Your Mountain Elopement Photographer

This is a big one—because your photographer is more than just the person snapping photos. When you work with someone who specializes in mountain elopements (hello, it’s me!), you’re also getting a built-in guide, hype-person, and planning resource. I’ve hiked the trails, chased the light, and learned the terrain. You’ll feel confident and supported from our first call all the way to your peak existence wedding day.

Step Three: Consider the Time of Year

Mountains are beautiful year-round, but each season brings its own considerations. Wildflowers in the summer, golden aspens in the fall, snowy wonderlands in winter—it’s all about what kind of vibe you want. Keep in mind that some locations may be inaccessible due to snow or road closures in certain months. And the seasons in the mountains look VERY different than in lower elevation places. Remember that for many mountain areas it’s still winter well into spring. High alpine places (like the Going to the Sun Road) don’t often open until late June or early July.

And here’s a pro tip: weekdays are where it’s at. You’ll get more privacy, fewer crowds, and the peaceful experience you deserve.

Step Four: Choose Your Guest List (if any)

One of the best parts about eloping in the mountains? You get to make it your own. Whether you want to share vows just the two of you—or invite a few of your closest people—you’ve got options. I’ll help craft a personalized elopement timeline based on your guest count, hiking ability, and overall vision.

Pro tip: If you’re inviting more than 8 people, consider using a venue like a vacation rental or campground. It will be easier on you and your guests, and you can always go on a more high key adventure later in the day (or the day before or after your ceremony).

Step Five: Pick a Specific Date, Time, and Ceremony Spot

Once we’ve locked in your location and photographer, it’s time to dive into the details. I’ve got a treasure trove of dreamy mountain elopement ceremony spots to share, many of which aren’t all over Instagram (yet!). We’ll find the perfect trail, overlook, or alpine meadow that fits your vibe—and then build your timeline around it.

Step Six: Secure Any Necessary Permits

If you’re eloping in a national park or forest service land, you may need a permit. Don’t worry—I’ll help you figure out exactly what’s needed for your specific location, from ceremony permits to photography guidelines. Pro tip: start this process early because sometimes permits can take a few weeks (or months) to approve.

Step Seven: Plan for Legalities

Let’s make it official! Each state has its own marriage license requirements, so we’ll want to research what’s needed in the state where you’re eloping. And bonus—yep, I’m ordained! So if you want to keep things intimate, I can sign off on your license too.

Not into paperwork on your wedding day? Many couples choose to handle the legal part before or after, keeping their mountain ceremony purely symbolic and stress-free.

Step Eight: Enjoy Your Peak Existence Mountain Elopement (and as always, Follow Leave No Trace)

Here’s the fun part—show up and embrace every second! You’re marrying your forever person in the freaking mountains. Dance, cry, laugh, shout your vows into the wind—whatever feels true to you.

And of course, we’ll leave the mountains just as we found them. Following Leave No Trace principles ensures these epic places stay beautiful for years to come. I’ll help guide you on how we can tread lightly while still celebrating wildly.

Alright- now that we’ve talked about the steps to elope in the mountains, let’s talk about the very best places for a mountain elopement. Here I talk about the very best spots in the US (and a few abroad!) I think are the very best for your mountain elopement. Enjoy!

The Best Spots for Your Mountain Elopement

1. North Cascades

Located in Washington State, the North Cascades offer dramatic mountain peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and lush forests. This remote location is perfect for couples who want a secluded and adventure-filled elopement experience.

Nearest Major Airport: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the closest major airport, about a three-hour drive from the heart of the North Cascades.

When is the Best Time to Elope in the North Cascades? Summer and early fall (July – October) offer the best weather and accessibility. Snow can linger well into July at higher elevations.

Activity Ideas for Your North Cascades Elopement

• Hiking to hidden alpine lakes
• Exploring waterfalls and glaciers
• Camping under the stars
• Kayaking or canoeing

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for: Couples who love adventure and want a secluded, scenic elopement setting.

It May Not Be a Great Fit for: Couples looking for easy access to hotels, restaurants, and amenities.

2. Olympic National Park

Located in Washington, Olympic National Park offers diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to lush rainforests and wild coastlines. This destination is perfect for couples who want a variety of breathtaking backdrops.

Nearest Major Airport: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the best option, followed by a scenic 2-3 hour drive to the park.

When is the Best Time to Elope in Olympic National Park? Late spring through early fall (May – October) offers the best weather, though winter elopements can be magical with snow-covered peaks. My personal favorite times are June and July.

Activity Ideas for Your Olympic National Park Elopement

• Kayak on Lake Crescent
• Explore the rugged coastline
• Watching the sunset (or sunrise!) over Hurricane Ridge
• Hike in the old growth rainforests

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for: Couples who want diverse scenery and a variety of adventure options.

It May Not Be a Great Fit for: Couples looking for high-end wedding venues and luxury accommodations or couples wanting to feel really remote.

3. Mount Rainier

Washington’s iconic Mount Rainier offers stunning wildflower meadows, glacier views, and dramatic alpine scenery, making it a top mountain elopement destination.

Nearest Major Airport: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is about a 2-hour drive from Mount Rainier National Park.

When is the Best Time to Elope in Mount Rainier? July – September for wildflowers and clear mountain views, or winter for a snowy wonderland. Late July is my favorite time of year in Mt Rainier

Activity Ideas for Your Mount Rainier Elopement

• Hiking to Paradise or Sunrise viewpoints
• Stargazing with the mountain as your backdrop
• Snowshoeing or skiing in the winter

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for: Couples who want iconic mountain scenery and breathtaking landscapes.

It May Not Be a Great Fit for: Couples looking for an easily accessible drive-up location with minimal hiking and lots of privacy- Mt. Rainier is a popular spot so it often takes a bit of work (re: Getting up early or hiking 2+ miles) to get a bit of privacy.

4. Yosemite

One of the most iconic national parks in the world, Yosemite is home to towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and breathtaking meadows, making it a dream elopement location.

Nearest Major Airport: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is the closest, about a 2-hour drive. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is another option, about 4 hours away.

When is the Best Time to Elope in Yosemite? Lake Spring (great for waterfalls) and or Fall for changing colors. The summers are SUPER busy and can get quite hot, so while a very popular time in the park, it’s (hot take) not the greatest time for an elopement

Activity Ideas for Your Yosemite Elopement

• Watching sunrise at Glacier point
• Exploring Yosemite Valley and getting up close and personal with the waterfalls.
• Rock climbing
• Hiking amongst the giant Sequoias
• Watching sunset at Taft Point

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for: Couples who love dramatic landscapes and famous landmarks.

It May Not Be a Great Fit for: Couples looking for a secluded elopement experience.

5. Rocky Mountains

The Rocky Mountains stretch across multiple states, offering vast landscapes with lakes, forests, and breathtaking peaks. My personal favorite area is the Western Slope of Colorado.

Nearest Major Airport: Denver International Airport (DEN) is the best option for Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park. If you’re wanting to elope in the Western slope (think Ouray and Telluride) then Grand Junction is the best place to fly into!

When is the Best Time to Elope in the Rockies? July – early October for hiking and clear weather; winter for a snow-covered wonderland.

Activity Ideas for Your Rocky Mountain Elopement

• Hiking scenic trails
• Wildlife spotting
• Snowshoeing or skiing in winter
• Canoeing on an alpine lake

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for: Couples who love vast, open mountain landscapes.

It May Not Be a Great Fit for: Couples looking for easily accessible venues and amenities.

6. The Sierra Nevadas

Located in California and Nevada, the Sierra Nevada mountain range is home to breathtaking alpine lakes, towering peaks, and stunning granite cliffs. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure and accessibility, this region has plenty to offer, from Lake Tahoe’s famous landscapes to the quiet beauty of Mammoth Lakes.

Nearest Major Airport:
This will majorly depend on the area you elope in. Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the most convenient but very small!

When is the Best Time to Elope in the Sierra Nevadas?
Summer and early fall provide the best weather for outdoor elopements, with warm temperatures and clear skies. Winter is magical with snow-covered peaks, but access to some areas will be limited.

Activity Ideas for Your Sierra Nevada Elopement:

• Hiking and backpacking
• Paddleboarding on Lake Tahoe
• Camping under the stars
• Skiing in Mammoth Lakes (winter elopements)
• Soaking in hot springs

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for:
Couples looking for diverse landscapes, from lush forests to high-altitude peaks.

It May Not Be a Great Fit for:
Couples who prefer a location with easy access to urban amenities and hotels.

7. Mt Hood

One of Oregon’s most iconic peaks, Mt Hood offers stunning alpine meadows, dense evergreen forests, and glacier-capped scenery. This region is ideal for couples who want a mix of adventure and cozy mountain charm.

Nearest Major Airport:
Portland International Airport (PDX) is the best option, located about 90 minutes from Mt Hood.

When is the Best Time to Elope on Mt Hood?
Spring through fall offers the best conditions, with wildflowers in bloom during summer. Winter elopements can be magical with snowy backdrops.

Activity Ideas for Your Mt Hood Elopement:

• Hiking to Trillium Lake
• Skiing and snowboarding at Timberline Lodge
• Exploring waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge
• Cozying up in a mountain cabin

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for:
Couples who love the idea of an adventurous elopement with a mix of rugged nature and charming lodges or couples who love being close to a city center (Portland is only an hour and a half away).

It May Not Be a Great Fit for:
Couples looking for mountain range – Mt Hood is its own lonely mountain.

8. Glacier National Park

Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” (and for good reason) Glacier National Park in Montana offers jaw-dropping mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, making it an unforgettable elopement destination. The park is very large and there are several distinct sections- I love the Many Glacier area (a northern area of the park) and the Going to the Sun Road.

Nearest Major Airport:
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana, is the closest (tiny) airport. There are very few direct flights so know you’ll be making some connections along the way.

When is the Best Time to Elope in Glacier National Park?
Late June through early September offers the best accessibility, as many roads and trails are snow-covered for most of the year.

Activity Ideas for Your Glacier National Park Elopement:

• Hiking the iconic Highline Trail
• Taking a scenic drive on Going-to-the-Sun Road
• Canoeing on Lake McDonald
• Wildlife spotting (watch for bears!)

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for:
Couples who love vast, untouched wilderness and epic mountain landscapes.

It May Not Be a Great Fit for:
Couples who prefer easy accessibility and luxurious accommodations. Glacier can be tough to get to but goodness is it incredible. PRO TIP: Stay at Many Glacier Hotel. It’s *incredible*. It’s also super hard to get reservations- rooms are released a year out at the start of the month. And you have to be ready at midnight (concert tickets style) ready to pounce on a reservation. The rooms will be fully booked within minutes. I know that’s wild, but it’s so so worth it.

9. The Tetons

Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is famous for its jagged peaks, pristine lakes, and incredible wildlife. It’s a top choice for couples who want a wild, adventurous elopement with picture-perfect backdrops.

Nearest Major Airport:
Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is located within the national park, making it the most convenient option.

When is the Best Time to Elope in The Tetons?
Late spring through early fall provides the best weather. Winter elopements are stunning but can be challenging due to heavy snowfall.

Activity Ideas for Your Teton Elopement:

• Kayaking on Jenny Lake
• Horseback riding through the valleys
• Sunrise wildlife viewing
• Scenic drives through the park

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for:
Couples who want dramatic mountain scenery and easy access to outdoor adventures.

It May Not Be a Great Fit for:
Couples who dislike cold weather or want an urban elopement setting.

10. International Edition: The Southern Alps

For couples looking to elope internationally, the Southern Alps of New Zealand offer some of the most jaw-dropping mountain landscapes in the world. With towering peaks, glacial lakes, and endless adventure opportunities, this is a dream destination for an epic mountain elopement.

Nearest Major Airport:
Queenstown Airport (ZQN) and Christchurch International Airport (CHC) are the best options for accessing the Southern Alps.

When is the Best Time to Elope in the Southern Alps?
November through March is ideal for warm weather and clear skies. If lupines are what you want, then the first two weeks of December are prime.

Activity Ideas for Your Southern Alps Elopement:

• Helicopter tours to mountain peaks
• Hiking through Fiordland National Park
• Stargazing in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
• Have a picnic in the lupines in December

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for:
Couples looking for a once-in-a-lifetime international elopement experience.

It May Not Be a Great Fit for:
Couples who prefer shorter travel times or easy access to major cities.

11. International Edition: The Dolomites

The Dolomites, located in northern Italy, offer a breathtaking mix of dramatic cliffs, lush meadows, and charming alpine villages. If you’re dreaming of a European mountain elopement, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a top pick.

Nearest Major Airport:
Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) or Innsbruck Airport (INN) are the best options for reaching the Dolomites.

When is the Best Time to Elope in The Dolomites?
June through October is the best time for warm weather and accessible trails, while winter elopements offer a magical snowy backdrop.

Activity Ideas for Your Dolomites Elopement:

• Hiking to Seceda or Tre Cime di Lavaredo
• Taking a cable car ride for panoramic views
• Exploring the alpine villages of Cortina d’Ampezzo
• Indulging in delicious Italian cuisine

This Mountain Elopement Location is Perfect for:
Couples who want a romantic, European elopement with breathtaking scenery.

It May Not Be a Great Fit for:
Honestly idk. The Dolomites are pretty amazing.