Glacier National Park Elopement Guide

Jaw-dropping views? Check.Crystal-clear lakes? Check. Endless opportunities for exploration? Check! Ahh, Glacier National Park, a place where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await. With over 700 miles of hiking trails, towering peaks, glittering glaciers, this park isn’t just a backdrop for your vows, it’s a playground for nature lovers! You’re going to want to spend more than just a day or two here.

While I love spur of the moment trips more than most, I do have to warn you. For the best results, this may not be the place to visit on a whim. There is hardly any cell phone service available in the park. From vehicle reservation requirements that prevent you from driving from one end of the park to the other for 9 hours of the day to realizing that driving from Apgar to Many Glacier takes around 3 hours, Glacier National Park is best enjoyed with a plan. Which is why I’ve put together this Glacier National Park Elopement Guide.

Park Entry and Vehicle Reservations

Everyone that enters Glacier National Park must have a pass. You can purchase one at the gate, just keep in mind that the park does not accept cash. It’s $20-$35 for a standard pass and $70 for an annual pass, however I don’t recommend buying either of those. If you visit more than one park a year, the best deal for visiting them is to purchase an “America the Beautiful Pass” for $80. It is good for unlimited visits to any National Park for one year.

In addition to your park access fee, vehicle reservations are required to drive on certain roads/areas between 6AM-3PM. These areas are Going-To-The-Sun-Road, Many Glacier, North Fork. These reservations are released on a daily-rolling basis, starting 4 months out. If you aren’t able to obtain a pass that far out, a few more reservations are available the night before at 7PM (MDT), but they go super quick! Missed both chances? It’s ok! Just get into the area you want before 6AM, or wait until 3PM.

How to Legally Get Married in Montana

Now, let’s talk about how to make things legal. Because even in the wild, wild west, you need to make it official.

• Marriage License: First things first, you’ll need a marriage license. Head to any Montana county clerk’s office. The good news? There’s no waiting period, so you can get married the same day you receive your license. 
• Documents Required: Bring valid photo IDs (driver’s license, passport) and $53 in cash. If you’ve been married before, bring proof of divorce or spouse’s death.
• Officiant: You’ll need someone to officiate your ceremony. Montana is pretty flexible, so you can have a judge, ordained minister, or even a friend who’s been ordained online do the honors.
• Witnesses: You’ll need two witnesses to sign your marriage license. If you’re eloping solo, you can always recruit a couple of friendly hikers.

Getting There

Depending on your airline of choice, there are several airport options that you can fly into for your Glacier National Park elopement.

Kalispell: Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) | 30 miles from the park

Missoula: Missoula International Airport (MSO) | 132 miles from the park

Great Falls: Great Falls International Airport (GTF) | 148 miles from the park

Bozeman: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) | 281 miles from the park 

Navigating Glacier National Park

Getting around Glacier National Park can feel like a grand adventure in itself, especially if you’re not familiar with the terrain. With over a million acres of stunning landscapes, it’s essential to know how to navigate the park efficiently and enjoyably. 

Driving Distances and Times

Glacier National Park is divided into two main sections: the West Side and the East Side, connected by the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. Here’s a quick breakdown of key driving distances and estimated times between popular spots:

Navigating the Going-to-the-Sun Road

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-see, but it’s not just a drive; it’s an experience. This 50-mile road takes you through the heart of the park, showcasing jaw-dropping views of mountains, lakes, and wildlife. However, be prepared for a slow crawl, especially during peak summer months. 

Expect to take about 2 to 3 hours to drive the entire length without stops, but let’s be real—you’ll want to stop. Scenic pullouts are plentiful, and every curve brings a new breathtaking view.

Parking can be a real headache, especially at popular spots like Logan Pass. Arrive at least 30 minutes early because chances are, you’ll be circling for a spot.

The Perfect Spot: Finding Your Ceremony Location

Glacier National Park does require a permit for all weddings and elopements that take place inside the park, and there are some rules that you need to be aware of. 

• For groups over 20 people a special park monitor might be required
• There is a 2 hour time limit
• Only 2 permits for each location will be granted for the day
• Your permit will not give you access through any road closures
• Picnic tables may not be reserved and are first come, first serve
• And last but not least, ceremonies must take place at approved locations only. Here are a few of them: 

Lake McDonald: Known for its colorful rocks and serene waters, Lake McDonald is perfect for a lakeside ceremony. Bonus: it’s easily accessible!

Many Glacier: This is my personal favorite area of the park! If you’re dreaming of a backdrop with rugged Switzerland vibe peaks and pristine lakes, Many Glacier is your go-to. This side of the park tends to be a little less busy than the main area.

Apgar Beach: Especially beautiful at sunrise, this area has a beautiful dock for portraits, and you can also rent canoes here to feel like you’re living out a scene from The Little Mermaid.

Sunpoint: This one requires a short hike on rocky terrain, but the views of St. Mary Lake and the surrounding mountains make for some of the absolute best in the park around sunrise or sunset.

A complete list can be found on the official Glacier National Park website.

The Best Time of Year to Elope

Timing is everything! Glacier National Park is a stunner all year round, but it’s important to know that not all of the park is accessible during every season. The Going-To-The-Sun-Road doesn’t have a set opening date, but it typically opens up June/July each year and closes on the 3rd Monday of October, unless Mother Nature has other ideas, then it may close early.

It’s always good to have a plan B when planning an elopement, but especially so if you’re planning to get married in Glacier National Park. This is where it’s helpful to find a photographer that’s knowledgeable about the park and can help you pivot on the fly.

July and August are going to be the best months for your big day. The weather is typically warm, the wildflowers are in full bloom, and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road is open and ready for your Instagram-worthy photos. With long daylight hours—seriously, sunsets can last until 9:30 PM—you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the stunning scenery and capture those picture-perfect moments. Keep in mind though that you are in the mountains. It’s not unheard of to experience all different extremes of weather on the same day! 

Pros of Eloping in July and August

Ideal Weather: Say goodbye to frostbite! Expect pleasant temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s (°F). Perfect for outdoor ceremonies without the chill of other seasons. Just remember to pack sunscreen; you don’t want to look like a lobster on your wedding day!

Accessibility: All park facilities, trails, and scenic drives are open, allowing you to explore the park’s beauty without any pesky restrictions. Want to hike to a hidden lake for a picnic? Go for it!

Vibrant Scenery: The park bursts with color during these months, making for stunning backdrops for your vows and photos. Imagine saying “I do” with a field of wildflowers and majestic peaks behind you. Talk about a Pinterest dream board come to life!

Cons of Eloping in July and August

Crowds Galore: Here’s the catch—July and August are peak tourist months. So, while you’re trying to find that perfect spot for your ceremony, you might have to dodge a few selfie sticks and enthusiastic hikers. It’s like a game of “Where’s Waldo?” but with more nature.

Permits and Restrictions: With all the lovebirds flocking to the park, certain locations have strict regulations, and you’ll need to secure a permit for your ceremony in advance. Glacier National Park is not a place that you want to wait until the last minute to get your ducks in a row! There are a lot of logistics to consider here.

Higher Costs: With the surge in visitors, accommodation and vendor prices can skyrocket. It’s wise to book early to snag the best options without breaking the bank. 

So, while July and August offer the best conditions for your elopement, be prepared for the hustle and bustle that comes with it. If you can navigate the crowds and plan accordingly, you’ll have an unforgettable adventure in one of the most beautiful places on Earth! 

If you’re more of a fall vibes couple, September and October would also be good months to elope. Just keep in mind though that even if you schedule your elopement for before the third Monday in October, there’s still a risk that The-Going-To-The-Sun Road might close, due to weather. With a solid backup plan in place though, this wouldn’t be a problem. There are still SO many other gorgeous locations to choose from!

Be Bear Aware

The very first thing that you should do once you enter Glacier National Park, is rent bear spray. Of course you can bring your own, or purchase some, but it’s banned by the TSA, so if you’re planning to fly you can’t bring it from home or take it with you.

It’s ok if you don’t know how to use it. They’ll show you a quick instructional video when you rent it. They also have a handy after hours drop-off.

Leaving No Trace While Eloping

When you’re eloping in the great outdoors, following the Leave No Trace Principles is an absolute must. Like, NON-NEGOTIABLE. Let’s set an example for fellow nature-lovers and embrace these principles while reveling in the unspoiled beauty all around you:

• Choose sustainable locations
• Pack it in, pack it out
• Minimize floral impact
• Travel on durable surfaces
• Respect wildlife
• Eco-friendly celebrations

Educate and inform guests of LNT principles, which you can find here.

Adventure Activities for Couples

Because your elopement is just the beginning of your adventure, here are some Glacier National Park specific activities to make your trip unforgettable:

• Hiking: Explore trails like the Highline Trail or Grinnell Glacier Trail. Just remember to pack bear spray and a sense of humor.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for grizzly bears, mountain goats, and moose. The signs alongside roads that say “Exhibit Ahead” are full of berry bushes and are popular locations to spot snacking bears.
• Kayaking/Canoeing: Paddle across Lake McDonald or Two Medicine Lake for a peaceful escape.
• Horseback Riding: Hey, this IS the west, after all!

For more inspo, check out this list I’ve put together of 50 more elopement activity ideas.

TLDR:

Get an America the Beautiful Pass. Secure your vehicle reservations 4 months in advance. Choose a specific elopement location. Apply for an elopement permit from Glacier National Park. Get a Montana marriage license. Download everything you need before going into the park since there’s no cell phone service. Rent bear spray before going ANYWHERE in the park, and always carry it with you. Be prepared to drive a lot. Pack for varying weather. Follow Leave No Trace Principles. Hire a photographer that knows the park. Have FUN.

Glacier National Park Elopement Photographer

So there you have it, your ultimate guide to eloping in Glacier National Park. Remember, this is your day, so make it as wild, wonderful, and uniquely you as possible. And if you’re looking for a photographer to join you and help you put together your adventure, I’d love to chat!