You’re Considering an Elopement in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and I mean that from the depths of my soul. I do about 90% of my annual work in the park, and it has quickly become like a second home to me. I’m here to tell you all the things about a Glacier National Park Elopement!
As someone who is super familiar with all the popular spots, and a handful of the secret ones I’m gonna give you the run down. So, grab a drink, grab a snack, and let’s talk about the wonder that is Glacier Country!
No matter what you are looking for, you are sure to find it when you Elope in Glacier National Park. Rivers, lakes, mountains and more can all be found in this jam packed park.
What’s It Like To Elope in Glacier National Park
If you dream about your elopement day and it sounds like this, Glacier might be your jackpot. So, close your eyes and let me take you on a walk through this perfect day.
Waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the river flowing just beyond your campsite. You look over to your hubby (or wifey) as they too take in the first lights of morning filtering through the tent and trees. You guys shuffle out of bed to find your photographer setting up the kettle over an open fire. Breakfast is already made and plated for you. You all enjoy a tasty breakfast before gearing up for your morning hike.
The trail is a fun and playful trek through the woods opening up to the most epic glacier lake you’ve ever seen, and though you almost died on the way up, you are both so happy you did it. The hem of your dress is tattered and dirty, but an absolutely beautiful reflection of the amazing trip you are starting together. You hike back down and make your way back to camp where an afternoon picnic has been prepared for you.
After eating, you and your partner get to take a walk down to the river for your ceremony, and you exchange your vows on the bank of a roaring river gorge. You are both so present in the ceremony with each other and with God. Ending your ceremony by washing each other’s feet in the river as Jesus washed the feet of his disciples.
You end the absolutely perfect day with moonlit photos beneath the Milky Way, and if you’re lucky you get a glimpse of the northern lights.
UGHHHHH! WHAT A DREAM!
Why people choose to elope in Glacier National Park
Choosing where you will elope is a big deal, and it’s often a very emotional and always personal choice. Still, I have found a handful of the top reasons couples choose to elope in Glacier National Park.
- The Views- Duh! GNP is so well known for its amazing scenery, and I was not surprised at all to see that lots of couples choosing this location do so for the views alone!
- The Adventure- GNP is home to some of the greatest hikes, and they are top contenders in the hiking community. With a range of super daring hikes to fully accessible strolling there is something for everyone. You might even see a grizzly, and who doesn’t want to see a bear on their wedding day!?
- The Culture – Montana is one of the best last good places, and Montnanans pride themselves on that. There’s this warm and cozy atmosphere all year long and a welcoming vibe. The people are full of life and adventurous, just like you!
- The Photographer – Lot’s of couples fall in love with their dream photographer and hire them long before choosing an elopement location. Sometimes booking close to where the photographer is based saves you a little money, and that happens to be the case for me! Booking me for a GNP elopement will save you.
When to elope in Glacier National Park
Like I said before the weather in Montana is a little moody, and she can change on a dime. It’ll be sunny one minute, and next thing you know it’s 30 degrees and snowing!
There are a few patterns we can chat about though and some general seasonal categories. Let’s do that!
Summer
July-September
Like I said before the weather in Montana is a little moody, and she can change on a dime. It’ll be sunny one minute, and next thing you know it’s 30 degrees and snowing!
There are a few patterns we can chat about though and some general seasonal categories. Let’s do that!
Fall
October-November
Fall is a short season in Montana, and while the days grow shorter and the sun sets a little earlier each night, the colors are truly magnificent. You can expect a bit of rain this time of year, and foggy mornings!
Think all the PNW vibes you can handle. It feels very much like “Twilight” if you know you know.
Winter
December-March
Oh, the winters in Montana. While they are beautiful, they are brutal. Early snow can come as early as September and as late as July. Eloping in the winter in MT is not for the weary, but the brave.
Think snow capped mountains, droopy snow covered pines, and a blanket of sparkly white fluff.
Spring
April-June
The days are stretching out again and the snow is melting but this is one of the least predictable times in Montana and can be very hard to plan ahead for. Snow or rain, one may never know.
Think, wet. Still a little chilly, and maybe even snowy. But, it can still be really pretty if you don’t mind carrying an umbrella for back-up.
How to plan Glacier National Park Elopement
There is so much that goes into planning a Glacier National Park Elopement, and you are going to want to work with someone who is familiar with the park, excellent at planning adventures, and who is competent and confident in the outdoors.
Elopement photographers in the area are a great place to start looking. Most local photographers who shoot elopements are going to have the skills and knowledge necessary for you to feel safe and secure on your elopement day. Typically, we also offer planning services so make sure to ask about that and remember not all photographers offer the same services so be sure to get clarification on this.
Check out the 10 Steps to Plan Your Elopement for a breakdown of planning your elopement no matter the location you choose.
How much does a Glacier National Park Elopement Cost
This is a loaded question. Technically to get married in Glacier National Park you’ll need a Montana marriage license and that costs $53, and then you’ll just need the marriage permit for the park, and that costs $125.
The real answer I think your looking for is an average cost of the whole thing right? Average elopement cost in GNP has a lot of factors at play, however the average is 16k. The good news is there are tons of people who elope with a much higher budget, as well as a much lower one. On the real, I think most of my couples spend an average somewhere between 10-15k, and that includes attire, food, travel, photography, and even lodging.
Obviously the cost of your elopement will depend on the vendors you choose and what activities you want to explore. For more cost info and breakdowns you can fine them in the How Much Does It Cost To Elope blog post. The post also contains a cost calculator to help you plan and budget!
Where in Glacier National Park should we elope?
There are five distinct regions in GNP where you can get a permit to say your vows. Choosing a location is a really personal choice, but I do have a whole post dedicated to helping you through all the options and choosing the best location for you.
Here’s my top 5:
- Big Bend – Ugh! The most scenic spot in all of the park if you ask me! This spot is the heart of the valley and is surrounded by sweeping mountains all around. In July/August the wildflowers bloom and create a field of beautiful dreams.
- Bowman Lake – This northern hidden gem is stunning and secluded. The perfect little get away for adventure seekers looking for a little more intimacy for their vows.
- Running Eagle Falls – A really accessible waterfall hike perfect for all levels of adventurers and guests alike. Obviously waterfalls are freaking awesome and this one is stunning and so easy to get to. Would be a great place to get some in the water shots!
- Rising Sun/Sun Point – Absolutely breathtaking location. Sunsets here are beyond words. I have done a few elopements in this location and always add this spot to the portraits list when I can. There is a short little half mile walk, and the most amazing view once you get out to Sun Point.
- Lake Josephine – OMG! Again another super top contender. I have been dying to do an elopement at this location and finally am going to have the opportunity. This spot is tucked away, accessible, and just freaking stunning! I think this might be my number 1. Stay tuned.
Check out the “Glacier National Park Elopement Locations” post for more detailed information such as guest counts and accessibility.
Who should you invite to your elopement?
Whoever the heck you want!
And not whoever you don’t.
Eloping is such a personal choice and knowing how to navigate who to tell and invite really needs to be something you and your future husband or wife agree on. It’s not about getting married in some secret ceremony and there are lots of ways to include your family should you want to. I also have lots of ideas on how to honor your family if you choose to do the “Just us two” kind of thing!
It’s about having the day you want and deserve with the people that you choose to be there.
Find more info in this post about “Who to Invite To Your Elopement“.
Glacier National Park Elopement locations do have a few restrictions so, location and guest count may be something you want to think about in tandem. For more information on locations and guest counts you can find them over on the “Glacier National Park Elopement Locations” post.
You’re Considering an Elopement in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and I mean that from the depths of my soul. I do about 90% of my annual work in the park, and it has quickly become like a second home to me. I’m here to tell you all the things about a Glacier National Park Elopement!
As someone who is super familiar with all the popular spots, and a handful of the secret ones I’m gonna give you the run down. So, grab a drink, grab a snack, and let’s talk about the wonder that is Glacier Country!
No matter what you are looking for, you are sure to find it when you Elope in Glacier National Park. Rivers, lakes, mountains and more can all be found in this jam packed park.
What’s It Like To Elope in Glacier National Park
If you dream about your elopement day and it sounds like this, Glacier might be your jackpot. So, close your eyes and let me take you on a walk through this perfect day.
Waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the river flowing just beyond your campsite. You look over to your hubby (or wifey) as they too take in the first lights of morning filtering through the tent and trees. You guys shuffle out of bed to find your photographer setting up the kettle over an open fire. Breakfast is already made and plated for you. You all enjoy a tasty breakfast before gearing up for your morning hike.
The trail is a fun and playful trek through the woods opening up to the most epic glacier lake you’ve ever seen, and though you almost died on the way up, you are both so happy you did it. The hem of your dress is tattered and dirty, but an absolutely beautiful reflection of the amazing trip you are starting together. You hike back down and make your way back to camp where an afternoon picnic has been prepared for you.
After eating, you and your partner get to take a walk down to the river for your ceremony, and you exchange your vows on the bank of a roaring river gorge. You are both so present in the ceremony with each other and with God. Ending your ceremony by washing each other’s feet in the river as Jesus washed the feet of his disciples.
You end the absolutely perfect day with moonlit photos beneath the Milky Way, and if you’re lucky you get a glimpse of the northern lights.
UGHHHHH! WHAT A DREAM!
Why people choose to elope in Glacier National Park
Choosing where you will elope is a big deal, and it’s often a very emotional and always personal choice. Still, I have found a handful of the top reasons couples choose to elope in Glacier National Park.
- The Views- Duh! GNP is so well known for its amazing scenery, and I was not surprised at all to see that lots of couples choosing this location do so for the views alone!
- The Adventure- GNP is home to some of the greatest hikes, and they are top contenders in the hiking community. With a range of super daring hikes to fully accessible strolling there is something for everyone. You might even see a grizzly, and who doesn’t want to see a bear on their wedding day!?
- The Culture – Montana is one of the best last good places, and Montnanans pride themselves on that. There’s this warm and cozy atmosphere all year long and a welcoming vibe. The people are full of life and adventurous, just like you!
- The Photographer – Lot’s of couples fall in love with their dream photographer and hire them long before choosing an elopement location. Sometimes booking close to where the photographer is based saves you a little money, and that happens to be the case for me! Booking me for a GNP elopement will save you.
When to elope in Glacier National Park
Like I said before the weather in Montana is a little moody, and she can change on a dime. It’ll be sunny one minute, and next thing you know it’s 30 degrees and snowing!
There are a few patterns we can chat about though and some general seasonal categories. Let’s do that!
Summer
July-September
Like I said before the weather in Montana is a little moody, and she can change on a dime. It’ll be sunny one minute, and next thing you know it’s 30 degrees and snowing!
There are a few patterns we can chat about though and some general seasonal categories. Let’s do that!
Fall
October-November
Fall is a short season in Montana, and while the days grow shorter and the sun sets a little earlier each night, the colors are truly magnificent. You can expect a bit of rain this time of year, and foggy mornings!
Think all the PNW vibes you can handle. It feels very much like “Twilight” if you know you know.
Winter
December-March
Oh, the winters in Montana. While they are beautiful, they are brutal. Early snow can come as early as September and as late as July. Eloping in the winter in MT is not for the weary, but the brave.
Think snow capped mountains, droopy snow covered pines, and a blanket of sparkly white fluff.
Spring
April-June
The days are stretching out again and the snow is melting but this is one of the least predictable times in Montana and can be very hard to plan ahead for. Snow or rain, one may never know.
Think, wet. Still a little chilly, and maybe even snowy. But, it can still be really pretty if you don’t mind carrying an umbrella for back-up.
How to plan Glacier National Park Elopement
There is so much that goes into planning a Glacier National Park Elopement, and you are going to want to work with someone who is familiar with the park, excellent at planning adventures, and who is competent and confident in the outdoors.
Elopement photographers in the area are a great place to start looking. Most local photographers who shoot elopements are going to have the skills and knowledge necessary for you to feel safe and secure on your elopement day. Typically, we also offer planning services so make sure to ask about that and remember not all photographers offer the same services so be sure to get clarification on this.
Check out the 10 Steps to Plan Your Elopement for a breakdown of planning your elopement no matter the location you choose.
How much does a Glacier National Park Elopement Cost
This is a loaded question. Technically to get married in Glacier National Park you’ll need a Montana marriage license and that costs $53, and then you’ll just need the marriage permit for the park, and that costs $125.
The real answer I think your looking for is an average cost of the whole thing right? Average elopement cost in GNP has a lot of factors at play, however the average is 16k. The good news is there are tons of people who elope with a much higher budget, as well as a much lower one. On the real, I think most of my couples spend an average somewhere between 10-15k, and that includes attire, food, travel, photography, and even lodging.
Obviously the cost of your elopement will depend on the vendors you choose and what activities you want to explore. For more cost info and breakdowns you can fine them in the How Much Does It Cost To Elope blog post. The post also contains a cost calculator to help you plan and budget!
Where in Glacier National Park should we elope?
There are five distinct regions in GNP where you can get a permit to say your vows. Choosing a location is a really personal choice, but I do have a whole post dedicated to helping you through all the options and choosing the best location for you.
Here’s my top 5:
- Big Bend – Ugh! The most scenic spot in all of the park if you ask me! This spot is the heart of the valley and is surrounded by sweeping mountains all around. In July/August the wildflowers bloom and create a field of beautiful dreams.
- Bowman Lake – This northern hidden gem is stunning and secluded. The perfect little get away for adventure seekers looking for a little more intimacy for their vows.
- Running Eagle Falls – A really accessible waterfall hike perfect for all levels of adventurers and guests alike. Obviously waterfalls are freaking awesome and this one is stunning and so easy to get to. Would be a great place to get some in the water shots!
- Rising Sun/Sun Point – Absolutely breathtaking location. Sunsets here are beyond words. I have done a few elopements in this location and always add this spot to the portraits list when I can. There is a short little half mile walk, and the most amazing view once you get out to Sun Point.
- Lake Josephine – OMG! Again another super top contender. I have been dying to do an elopement at this location and finally am going to have the opportunity. This spot is tucked away, accessible, and just freaking stunning! I think this might be my number 1. Stay tuned.
Check out the “Glacier National Park Elopement Locations” post for more detailed information such as guest counts and accessibility.
Who should you invite to your elopement?
Whoever the heck you want!
And not whoever you don’t.
Eloping is such a personal choice and knowing how to navigate who to tell and invite really needs to be something you and your future husband or wife agree on. It’s not about getting married in some secret ceremony and there are lots of ways to include your family should you want to. I also have lots of ideas on how to honor your family if you choose to do the “Just us two” kind of thing!
It’s about having the day you want and deserve with the people that you choose to be there.
Find more info in this post about “Who to Invite To Your Elopement“.
Glacier National Park Elopement locations do have a few restrictions so, location and guest count may be something you want to think about in tandem. For more information on locations and guest counts you can find them over on the “Glacier National Park Elopement Locations” post.
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