Glacial National Parks is a dream destination for those with a sense of wanderlust. With jaw-dropping views and countless ways to explore, there’s something new waiting for you each time you visit. If you are looking for the ultimate adventure, you really can’t do any better than planning an elopement right in the center of the park! If you could use a friend to help you plan your celebration, I would love to help you out! As an adventure elopement photographer, I adore working with couples for their perfect National Parks journey! Here’s your guide for planning a Glacier National Park elopement.
You Can Plan The Perfect Glacier National Park Elopement
When You Should Elope in Glacier National Park & How to Pick Your Date
The very first thing you need to decide when it comes to your wedding is when you want to tie the knot. When you are planning a National Park wedding, there are a few things you want to keep in mind. First off, the NPS is a destination for people from across the globe. No matter which location you visit, you can guarantee you are going to run into a lot of tourists eager to share the experience. Because none of the parks have private elopement spaces, you’ll probably have some onlookers. Traffic tends to peak mid-day, and the weekends are the most common times to plan a visit. If you want to avoid the crowds, you will want to plan a midweek ceremony around sunrise. Yes, it’s early, but you are also going to have the most magical lighting as you trade vows.
Find The Season At Glacier For You
Now, let’s chat about the seasons. Each season is going to have its pros and cons. It’s just a matter of what works best for you!
Summer: Remember, summers are always the busiest season for vacations! Traffic in Glacier peaks around July and August. Not only are more people able to schedule time off during summer, but the weather is also gorgeous! Get ready for temperate hikes, lush flowers, and open roads. If you are willing to deal with some crowds, summer is always an amazing season in Glacier!
Fall: During fall, the weather starts to cool, the leaves begin to turn, and the crowds thin. While there’s definitely a chill, you won’t have the unbearable winter temperatures just yet! If you are a fan of falling leaves and autumnal colors, I think you’ll adore a Glacier fall!
Winter: If you don’t mind the cold, winter is a gorgeous time! Snow covers the park, and the crowds are very minimal. The only issue is that much of the park will be closed. While West Glacier tends to remain open, you will want to check out for potential closures throughout your wedding week.
Spring: During the spring, the park tends to wake up in every sense. Flowers start to push their way through as the snow starts its slow melt. While you’ll have the temperate fall weather, you’ll also have a few more crowds to deal with.
Glacier National Park Elopement Locations
Glacier has several spots that they let you rent for your ceremony. Yes, you will need to stick with these spots, and they do require a permit (we’ll chat more about this in a sec). Here are some of the spots you can reserve for your day:
Going-to-the-Sun Road: This space is positively breathtaking, with options for driving or hiking. If you choose to drive, you’ll have 50 miles of windy yet scenic views!
Avalanche Lake: With this spot, you’ll be close to towns like Whitefish and Kalispell. While this might make it more convenient, you can also expect more crowds. Still, with its clear waters and surrounding mountains, it’s a pretty amazing spot for an adventure-filled elopement!
Virginia Falls: This space offers you a spot to exchange your vows as a waterfall rushes just beyond you. The hike is fairly easy, and you’ll pass St. Mary’s Falls on the way.
Haystack Butte: While this area might be a bit of a hike, you’ll have privacy as well as a spectacular backdrop!
Trail of the Cedars: This is a flat, wheelchair-accessible hike that will ensure every member of the family can celebrate with you! You’ll exchange vows surrounded by towering cedars.
How to Get a Glacier National Park License
For your Glacier National Park elopement, you will need two things: a Montana wedding license and a National Park permit. You can complete the application for your marriage license online. Once you have completed your application, you and your partner will go to the Clerk of Court office to get your license. Your license will be available right away, so you don’t have to worry about a waiting period.
For the NPS, you must complete a Special Use Permit application specifying the date, time, location, and guests. You will also need to specify two backup locations. Be sure to apply sooner rather than later to reserve your spot! Once you send it in, follow up with a phone call so they can have the application in hand while giving you your permit.
What to Wear
Now comes the fun part: what to wear! While elopements give you tons of options for your outfit, it never hurts to prioritize comfort and function. Long, flowy dresses are ideal for brides, while casual suits work well for grooms. I would opt for breathable fabrics since you’ll be moving around a ton. Oh, and don’t forget the footwear! If you are hiking to your destination, wear practical shoes. Remember, you can always change your footwear once you arrive at your location.
How Much Does It Cost?
With elopements, you can get a lot of freedom when it comes to costs. Here’s what you will need to pay:
- NPS Special Use Permit: $125
- Montana Wedding License: $50
- Entrance Fee: $20-$30 per person
From there, you will need to factor in lodging, food, transportation, flowers, outfits, and an officiant.
Hiring a Glacier National Park Elopement Photographer
One of the first things you will need to decide for your wedding is your photographer. Not only do you want to reserve your space with them, but you also need to tell the park while you fill out your application. My advice? Be sure to budget for a photographer who knows how to capture the splendor of the park while letting you remain the star of the show. Remember, this is a moment you’ll want to carry with you for the rest of your life. Think of a photographer as an investment! As an adventure wedding photographer, I adore partnering with couples to give them gorgeous pictures that will help them treasure this moment forever. I would love to sit down and tell you about my elopement options so you can decide if I’m the one.
I Hope You Found All You Need To Know For Your Dream Glacier National Park Elopement
Hopefully, this guide helps as you plan your Glacier National Park elopement. If you would like to learn more about my adventure elopements, send me a message! Let’s chat so you can decide if I’m lucky enough to help you celebrate!
