How to Elope in Glacier National Park
So you’ve made the big decision to elope in Glacier National Park… but you have no idea where to start.
Hey, I’m Gabriela!
I am an adventure elopement + intimate wedding photographer, that’s deeply passionate about photography and creating incredible experiences + meaningful memories for my couples.
If you’ve landed here, you are likely imagining what your day could look like, in beautiful Montana.
Glacier National Park is an incredible place for an elopement. It has draw dropping landscapes and breathtaking glacier-carved mountain views! It is a place with so much beauty to offer. You can’t go wrong eloping in Glacier National Park!
Best Time of Year to Elope in Glacier National Park
The best time of the year to elope at Glacier National Park is during the months of July and August. This time is known for being the “peak season” for visitors, and you’ll also get to enjoy the cool temperatures (around the 70s throughout the day and in the 40s at night). Due to these weather conditions, be sure to pack warm clothes and rain-protective garments (like rain-jackets and ponchos).
During the peak season, I recommend planning your elopement ceremony on a weekday to avoid some of the crowds. Ideally, choosing to elope at sunrise can also help to avoid tourists. Sunrise or sunset are also best time to experience the beauty and natural ambience that Glacier National Park has to offer.
How to Elope in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park will leave you swooning from the 500+ square miles of vast wilderness, glaciers, valleys, and stunning rocky mountain terrains. Glacier National Park is known for being the “Crown of the Continent,” due to its variety of majestic views of the rocky alpines, glaciers, and natural wildlife.
If you’re up for an adventure elopement, then Glacier National park is your dream elopement destination! There are several hiking trails that span over 700 miles and traverse through nature with activities including, but not limited to, backpacking, camping, and cycling. These could all be possible options to include in your all day elopement experience!
Permits & Regulations
I know you’re probably eager to venture out and find the perfect elopement destination, but it’s important to know Glacier National Park’s rules and regulations as you begin planning.
Contact the special park use office at (406) 888-7832 to confirm that your elopement ceremony date is available before submitting your elopement application.
Due to COVID-19, there is currently a 30-guest maximum for all wedding ceremonies. Certain locations are only allowing 15 people. For more information about Wedding Permit COVID-19 Restrictions, go HERE.
You need to purchase a special use permit, with a $125 non-refundable application fee in order to have your wedding or elopements at the park.
Have a good head count of your guests, because there are required entrance passes to enter the park (some exclusions apply for children 15 years old or younger and adults 62 years+).
Where to Elope in Glacier National Park
Given that there is over 500 square miles of vast land, Glacier National Park contains a wide variety of locations to elope. To make planning easier, try ruling out what scenery you know you don’t want, and focus on what you do want (like glaciers, lakes, mountains, forest). This way you can narrow down your list of possible locations. Something else to consider is, how many guests will be attending the ceremony, because certain terrains are more accessible to a wide range of people than others.
Certain locations are closed during off-season, while others are open. For example, most glacier and Bowman lakes are open in the beginning of May, while some locations in West Glacier are open year round.
Built in 1931 and standing at around 7,000 feet, enjoy the majestic views this (snowy) lookout has to offer. From here you can see incredible lake views, including North Cascades National Park and Glacier Peak Wilderness in bird’s eye-view. The lookout is open year-round, but summer is the best time to go (specifically July). Make sure to plan ahead, as the hike and locations are limited due to the rough road and trail conditions.
*Elopement ceremonies are not allowed here, but the lookout is open on a first-come-first-serve basis for overnight use*
Located on the west side of Glacier National Park, this 10-mile long lake contains a valley full of hiking trails, colorful rocks, diverse natural wildlife, and the Swiss-influenced design of Lake McDonald Lodge. The incredible views you can see here are beyond imagination — with picturesque snowy tips of the alpines right in front of you. This is a perfect elopement ceremony spot, if you want Swiss-scenery vibes!
As one of the park’s most popular locations, this trail is also known for being flat, wheelchair accessible, and a one-mile loop. The trailhead begins and ends on Going To The Sun road, and will take you through several sceneries. Sunrise here is highly recommended to capture the golden light rays shining through the woods.
*Note that there is limited parking available, as the lot is shared with the Avalanche Lake Trail*
Standing at an elevation gain of 1,275 feet and a lengthy almost 10-mile hike, Iceberg Trail will leave you in awe from the outstanding lookout-views, like the alpine lakes, glaciers, and wildflowers. This hike is located behind the cabins by Swiftcurrent Motor Inn. You can also park here if there’s no parking at the trailhead. If you want an adventure, hike Iceberg trail and witness the most stunning views of the entire park on your big day!
Let’s alleviate your stress, plan a meaningful experience, and make YOU the focus!
Elopement Photography Packages
Ready to explore all that Glacier National Park has to offer for your big day? Here are my elopement photography packages!
Included with each package:
Mini, Half Day, Full/Multi-Day coverage options
Personal planning guidance — help you choose the location, find vendors, and create a timeline
Assistance with permitting and marriage licenses
Personalized online gallery of high-resolution images + printing rights
All fees included!
Packages begin at $5,000
“I enjoyed the process. I felt like we weren’t really in a photoshoot with Gabriela. Being able to capture such great moments in time, and having those memories last forever is priceless.”
