How to Elope in a National Park
So, you’ve decided to ditch the big wedding and elope in a national park. Good for you! But before you start dreaming of frolicking through meadows like a Disney princess, let’s talk logistics (and leave no trace principles)—because eloping in a national park isn’t as simple as showing up with your partner and saying “I do” (spoiler alert: permits are involved).
Can You Elope in a National Park?
Yes, you can! But—and this is a big *but*—you can’t just roll into Yellowstone or Yosemite like you own the place. The National Park Service (NPS) has rules, and they’re not messing around. Most parks require permits for elopements, whether you’re exchanging vows or snapping dreamy engagement photos. Why? Because they’re trying to protect these gorgeous spaces from turning into chaotic wedding venues where Uncle Bob leaves beer cans behind.
Permits ensure that your elopement doesn’t disrupt other visitors (because they also paid to enjoy the park), help track the number of ceremonies happening each year, and—bonus!—give you some privacy. Well, sort of. It’s still a public park, so this is why it’s important to work with an elopement photographer that can help you figure out the best time of day to elope in the park you’ve chosen in order to cut down on the crowds.
The Permit Process
Applying for a permit isn’t exactly thrilling, but it’s necessary. Each park has its own process, ranging from “fill out this simple online form” to “please submit detailed plans that rival NASA’s Mars mission.” Here’s what you’ll generally need:
- Your names and contact info
- Date and time of your elopement
- Location within the park
- Number of attendees
- A brief description of your plans
Permit fees range from $50 to $500 depending on the park. Oh, and don’t forget about entrance fees—because even lovebirds have to pay to get in. This is not included in your permit fee. My recommendation- get an America the Beautiful pass. It’s good for one year and provides entry to all national parks. You can usually get one of these at any National Park entrance booth or visitor’s center.
Once you have your permit (yay!), make sure you follow the park’s regulations. These might include restrictions on decorations (no balloon arches or confetti explosions), guest limits, or specific ceremony locations. Basically, don’t plan anything that looks like it belongs on a reality TV show.
Reservations and Timing
Let’s talk about another crucial detail: reservations and timing. Yes, even national parks have schedules, and trust me, you don’t want to be the couple who shows up only to realize the park is booked solid or closed for the season.
First up: reservations. Some parks require them for entry, especially during peak seasons (looking at you, summer). For example, places like Glacier National Park and Rocky Mountain National Park have timed entry systems during busy months. Translation? You can’t just roll up whenever you feel like it. You’ll need to snag a reservation in advance—and by “in advance,” I mean months ahead if you’re eloping in a popular park. Procrastinators, beware.
Now let’s talk about timing. The time of year can make or break your elopement plans. Want those dreamy snow-capped mountain photos? Winter might be your best bet—but keep in mind that some parks have limited access due to snow (or bears who aren’t thrilled about sharing their space). Dreaming of golden leaves and crisp air? Fall is perfect, but it’s also peak season for leaf-peepers, so expect crowds unless you plan strategically.
Summer might seem like the obvious choice for warm weather and clear skies, but it’s also when parks are at their busiest—and nothing kills the vibe faster than a line of tourists waiting to snap photos of your ceremony spot. If solitude is what you’re after, consider eloping during colder seasons (spring or late fall). Bonus: fewer people means fewer chances of someone yelling “Congratulations!” mid-vows (sweet but awkward).
Do your homework before locking in your date and park. Reservations and timing are just as important as picking the right spot—and trust me, a little planning goes a long way toward ensuring your elopement day is nothing short of perfection.
Picking Your Perfect Park
With 63 national parks in the U.S., choosing one can feel like picking your favorite ice cream flavor—except instead of chocolate chip cookie dough, you’re deciding between majestic mountains and epic deserts. If decision fatigue is setting in, here’s a pro tip: Colorado is one of the easiest states to get married in AND has four stunning national parks:
Still undecided? Check out my specific elopement guides for Bryce Canyon, Zion, Glacier, and more on my blog.
Leave No Trace: Because Trashy Weddings Are So Last Season
If there’s one thing we need to talk about seriously, it’s Leave No Trace principles. Eloping in nature is magical—but only if we keep it that way. Here’s how to make sure your dream day doesn’t turn into an environmental nightmare:
- Stick to Trails: No matter how tempting that wildflower meadow looks, stay on designated paths. Trampling vegetation might seem harmless until you realize it takes years to recover.
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: This isn’t just about trash—it includes decorations too. If you brought it into the park (like those cute fairy lights), take it back out.
- Respect Wildlife: Feeding squirrels may seem adorable until they start raiding picnics because humans taught them bad habits.
- Skip Confetti & Rice Tosses: These are not biodegradable and can harm animals who mistake them for food.
- Keep Groups Small: Large gatherings can overwhelm fragile ecosystems—and let’s be honest, do you really want 30 people tagging along? Most National Parks also have a guest limit, which can vary, based on the exact ceremony location.
By following these Leave No Trace guidelines, you’re not just being responsible—you’re ensuring future couples can enjoy these parks too.
Why Hire an Elopement Photographer?
Navigating permits and planning an elopement day can feel like herding cats—but that’s where I come in! As an elopement photographer who knows national parks inside out (and has probably hiked more trails than I care to admit), I’m here to make your life easier.
Here’s what I bring to the table:
- Location Scouting: I’ll help you find THE spot that screams “us” without screaming “crowds.”
- Permit Assistance: Because paperwork is boring but necessary.
- Custom Timelines: Want sunrise vows followed by sunset champagne but need help figuring out what else to do with your day? Done.
- Stress-Free Vibes: My job is to make sure you actually enjoy your day—not spend it worrying about logistics.
- Epic Photos: Let’s be real—you want pictures that make everyone say “WOW.” That’s my specialty.
- An 88-Page Elopement Guide: Full of all kinds of tips and tricks to help you plan the BEST day ever.
Plus, I’m pretty chill to hang out with—and who doesn’t want good company while hiking up a mountain in wedding attire?
I’ve even scouted locations all the way at the bottom of the Grand Canyon! Rim to Rim Hike 2018
Final Thoughts
Eloping in a national park isn’t just about saying “I do”—it’s about creating memories surrounded by nature’s most breathtaking backdrops. Yes, there are permits involved (and rules to follow), but trust me—it’s worth every bit of effort.
So grab your hiking boots (or fancy shoes if you’re feeling bold), pack some snacks (trail mix counts as catering, right?), and let’s plan an elopement day that feels as wild and free as your love story.
Ready to make magic happen? Contact me today—I’d be thrilled to help turn your dream national park elopement into reality!
