The Best Places to Elope in the US

So, you’ve decided to elope – to ditch the hoopla of a big wedding, to choose experiences over things, to get married the way you want to… but what now? 

For a lot of couples, the location – getting married in a drop dead gorgeous natural setting – is one of the big reasons for deciding to elope. But, actually finding that perfect location can be a bit of a challenge. Luckily, as an elopement photographer and your biggest cheerleader throughout this whole thing, and as someone with an (unhealthy) obsession with location scouting and finding the perfect spot, I’m here to help! This guide will tell you about some of the best places to elope in the US, depending on what you’re looking for.

The Best Places to Elope in the Mountains in the US

Mountain peaks dusted with snow, long hiking trails, and alpenglow – if your dream wedding day is in the mountains, here are some spots to consider!

Glacier National Park, Montana

When it comes to mountains, you really can’t beat Montana – the name (Montaña) means “mountain” in Spanish! Glacier National Park is one of the most incredible places, with jaw dropping views around every corner. There are glaciers, towering peaks, clear blue lakes, and over 700 miles of hiking trails.

Crested Butte, Colorado

Colorado is full of cute mountain towns, but Crested Butte is one of the coolest! With blooming wildflowers in the summer, golden aspens in the fall, and a winter wonderland the rest of the time, you really can’t go wrong. There are so many stunning spots, from alpine lakes, waterfalls, and more tucked between the peaks – and many of them are easy to get to!

Chattanooga, Tennessee

The east coast doesn’t get enough love when it comes to mountain views! Tennessee has the Great Smoky Mountains, and the town of Chattanooga is known for its natural beauty. It’s surrounded by mountain ridges and peaks, along with the Tennessee River – it’s truly one of the best places to elope in the US if you’re looking for outdoor adventures! There are also a lot of locations that are more easily accessible if you want to include some loved ones in your elopement day, but plenty of more off the beaten path spots too.

The Best Places to Elope in the Desert in the US

The desert has its own unique beauty – with vast landscapes, unique rock formations, and cacti. If you want to tie the knot in the desert, here are a few of the best places to elope in the US for you!

Moab, Utah

Moab is a fun, quirky town in Utah, popular with rock climbers, hikers, and outdoorsy folks in general. Utah has five national parks, and two of them are within half an hour of Moab! Arches National Park is known for its sandstone arches, while Canyonlands National Park has canyons and mesas carved out by the Colorado River.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Another one of Utah’s Big Five is Bryce Canyon National Park. This canyon is known for the towering hoodos – tall, thin spires of rock, as well as the pink and red sandstone that makes up the rocky cliffs. Since it’s in the high desert, temperatures are a little cooler than some other desert locations – and in the winter, you can experience the canyon dusted with snow.

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is a little bit less “desert-y” than the others – though it’s considered high desert, there’s a river that runs through the park, and some greenery around. The tall cliffs are layered with pink, red, and orange sandstone, and there are some really incredible trails here! 

The Best Places to Elope by a Waterfall in the US

What could be more romantic than reading your vows as a waterfall cascades behind you? Here are a few places where you can do just that!

Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee

The largest waterfall in the eastern US can be found here, at Fall Creek Falls State Park! There are lots of other waterfalls too, and forested trails to wander through to find your perfect ceremony spot. 

Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Red River Gorge is a hidden gem in Kentucky, full of incredible sandstone cliffs, lush forests, and, of course, waterfalls! There are countless trails leading to beautiful waterfalls, and even some natural arches and fun rock formations that create a unique and stunning backdrop for an elopement.

The Best Places to Elope on the Beach in the US

If you dream of exchanging vows with your toes in the sand and the sound of waves crashing in the background, here are some of the best spots for an elopement on the beach!

Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington is a charming coastal town, with some of the best beaches on the east coast. Wrightsville Beach is a favorite for couples looking for soft sand and incredible ocean views, and with the historic downtown so close by, it’s a great place for post-elopement celebrations!

Big Sur, California

Big Sur is one of the most breathtaking places in general, and it’s a really incredible place to elope! The rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and multitude of stunning beaches – from sandy coves to moody, rocky coastlines – give you plenty of options for places to tie the knot.  

Cannon Beach, Oregon

For a moodier, dramatic beach elopement, Cannon Beach is one of the best places to elope in the US! The towering sea stacks, misty coastline, and rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest create a gorgeous setting for your ceremony, and if you want to go somewhere a little more private, there are plenty of lesser known beaches nearby!

Finding the Best Places to Elope in the US

I’ll let you in on a secret… you don’t have to do this alone! I eloped, so I’ve been there – and now, my job as an elopement photographer is to help couples like you do it too. I’ll help you with the planning process, and be your biggest cheerleader in making sure your day is full of joy, love, adventure, and whatever you want it to be! 

That includes finding the perfect location – whether you’re looking for a family friendly overlook, a grueling hike, or anything in between, I’ll get to know you, take your dreams and ideas, and come back with a personalized list of options. If you’re ready to plan your elopement, I’m here to help!