Grand Teton National Park Wedding: The Complete How to Guide

Grand Teton National Park offers one of the most breathtaking backdrops in the country for couples who want a wedding grounded in nature—something beautiful, meaningful, and connected to the landscape. Towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, wildflower meadows, and golden-hour magic create an unforgettable setting for your vows. As a photographer specializing in intimate weddings and adventurous elopements in Grand Teton National Park, I’m passionate about helping you have your dream day and capturing meaningful moments you’ll hold onto for a lifetime.

Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement or a micro wedding with up to 40 guests, this guide will walk you through how to legally and logistically plan a Grand Teton National Park wedding—including permits, locations, park rules, and answers to the most-asked questions.

Table of Contents

Why Consider a Grand Teton National Park Wedding?

For couples who love the outdoors and want to skip the traditional venue, hosting a ceremony inside Grand Teton National Park is an incredible option. You’ll exchange vows with mountain views that don’t need decoration—and share the moment with your closest people in one of the most iconic landscapes in the world.

Grand Teton’s ceremony options are ideal for elopements and micro weddings (generally under 40 guests), creating a truly intimate atmosphere while still offering accessible planning options.

couple enjoys the sunset after grand teton national park wedding

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Plan a Grand Teton National Park Wedding

1. Decide on Your Ceremony Type

Choose between a Reserved Site-Specific Permit (up to 25–40 people at official park locations) or a Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit (up to 12 people at an approved spot you propose).

2. Pick Your Desired Date & Location

Check which ceremony locations have availability for your date. Some popular sites fill up fast and only allow one wedding per day.

3. Complete & Submit the Application

Download the official Wedding and Commitment Ceremony Special Use Application from the park’s website. Fill it out with your personal info, ceremony details, total participant count (including all guests & vendors), and your chosen location. Email your completed application to: grte_visitor_services@nps.gov. You must apply at least 30 days in advance (applications open in December for the following year).

4. Pay the Permit Fee

Pay the non-refundable $200 application fee as directed on the park’s website.

5. Review & Sign Your Permit

Once reviewed, you’ll receive a permit draft to sign and return within 7 days. Your finalized permit will be emailed back—print a copy to bring with you.

6. Finalize Wedding Plans

Make sure all guests and vendors are counted on your permit. Share park rules with everyone: no decor/arches, no petals, leave no trace, and only allowed time slot.

7. Celebrate your day in the Tetons

Bring your permit and enjoy your ceremony! Remember, you do not have exclusive use—sites remain open to all visitors, and your reservation is for one hour only.

Tip: Start the permitting process early! Popular dates and sites fill up quickly, and incomplete or late applications won’t be accepted.

How to Get a Permit for a Grand Teton National Park Wedding

To get married in the park, you’ll need to apply for a Special Use Permit through the National Park Service. There are two types depending on your group size and how formal the ceremony is.

1. Site-Specific Wedding Permits:

For up to 40 guests
Choose from one of the official ceremony sites listed below
One-hour maximum at your selected location
$200 non-refundable application fee
Applications open one year in advance; apply at least 30 days out Pro Tip: Popular sites book quickly once the December application window opens

2. Small Dispersed Ceremony Permits:

For groups up to 12 people
You propose a small, low-impact location (as long as it’s not a restricted area)
You’ll still need to follow park regulations and submit an application
Ideal for couples wanting something quieter, off-the-path, or more spontaneous

Approved Locations for Grand Teton National Park Weddings

These are the only official ceremony locations approved by the park for weddings of up to 40 guests:

•Schwabacher Landing (up to 25 people)

One of the most iconic wedding locations in the Tetons. This riverside spot offers stunning mountain reflections, soft meadow light, and easy access. It’s popular year-round and especially crowded at sunrise—so arrive early and be ready to share the space with other visitors.

Best For: Intimate gatherings, sunrise or sunset ceremonies, couples wanting riverside settings and epic reflections in classic Teton style.

Key Rules:

Only allowed by site-specific permit (not for dispersed)
Very popular—often busy with tourists and photographers
Leave no trace; all participants included in count
Full for 2025 season

•Mormon Row Historic Site (up to 40 people North, 25 people South)

Known for its historic barns set against wide-open fields and the towering Teton range, this location offers a classic Wyoming feel. Expect epic mountain views—and more foot traffic. Sunrise ceremonies can offer a little more peace and privacy.

Best For: Iconic “Wyoming barn” wedding feel; classic, wide-open fields and the closest “big” mountain views; perfect for photos, family groups, and history buffs.

Key Rules:

No arches or large decor
No seating except for accessibility needs
Must keep ceremony rustic, simple, and leave no trace
Only one ceremony per day, per site; 60/year max
Full for 2025 season

•Glacier View Turnout (up to 25 people)

A pull-off with panoramic views of the entire Teton range. While it’s simple and easily accessible, don’t let that fool you—this backdrop is dramatic and cinematic. It’s a great option for smaller weddings with guests who may need a little extra accessibility.

Best For: Couples wanting mountain panoramas right from the road, accessible site for guests with mobility needs, or groups who’d like something simple but dramatic.

Key Rules:

Limited to 1 ceremony per day/60 per year
Accessible, minimal setup, open exposure
As always: no decor, chairs, or structures

•Mountain View Turnout (up to 25 people)

A quieter ceremony spot with a more tucked-away feel. This peaceful pull-off offers expansive views with fewer people. It’s a favorite for couples looking for somewhere naturally beautiful and a bit more low-key.

Best For: Couples prioritizing privacy and mountain drama, small groups, those wanting peaceful pullover access with sweeping landscapes.

Key Rules:

Accessible only by reserved permit starting June 1st
Rustic, open, borderline “hidden gem” among Teton spots
No decoration, amplified sound, or large setup

•Snake River Overlook (up to 25 people)

Famous for its sweeping views of the Snake River winding below the Tetons, this location is stunning in fall and early morning light. Though there are often visitors stopping for photos, ceremonies here work well with smaller groups who want a moody, elevated backdrop.

Best For: Smaller weddings, lovers of early morning or autumn color, sweeping views of the river, and Ansel Adams-level vistas.

Key Rules:

Very limited space—works best for groups who need little setup
Accessible spot, but must remain open to the public during your event
Iconic photos, but may have high visitor traffic

Colter bay Grand Teton National Park

•Colter Bay Swim Beach (up to 40 people)

A slightly lesser-known lakeside location with views of the Tetons reflecting off Jackson Lake. This is an ideal spot for summer weddings and more relaxed, family-style ceremonies with room to walk or dip your toes in the water afterward.

Best For: Couples seeking a lakeside ceremony with mountain reflections, family-friendly groups, summer events. Great if you want proximity to visitor services (bathrooms, shops, lodging, parking).

Key Rules:

Available for both site-specific and small dispersed permits
No decor, arches, chairs, or amplified music
Ceremony site limited to 1 hour total
Only 30 ceremonies allowed per year at this site
Full for 2025 season
Shoreline may be narrower in spring/early summer due to high water

Small Dispersed Ceremony Permits in Grand Teton National Park

Guest Capacity: Up to 12 people (includes everyone: couple, officiant, photographer, children, etc.)
Best For: Couples wanting ultra-private, flexible elopements; micro weddings; unique or off-the-beaten-path settings; or winter ceremonies when site-specific permits are unavailable.
Where Permitted: Any area in the park not on the park’s restricted list. Proposal of location (map or GPS) is required with your application. Not allowed in high-traffic or sensitive zones (Jenny Lake, Hidden Falls, Rockefeller Preserve, String Lake, etc.).

Key Rules:

One-hour max for ceremony (includes setup/photos)
No exclusive use—site stays open to public
No decor, arches, chairs (except for accessibility), petals, confetti, or amplified music
Pack out all belongings
Application at least 30 days in advance; $200 fee

General Permit & Ceremony Rules for All Grand Teton National Park Weddings

All people (couple, guests, vendors) count toward your permit cap
Permits required for all ceremonies—no exceptions
Sites are shared with the public—no exclusive access
Only hand-held bouquets allowed (no petals may be tossed, no invasives)
No chairs, tables, structures, or large decor
Permit applicant must be one of the marrying couple
All vehicles must pay entrance fees
Permit changes after approval may incur a fee

Groom spins his wife around after the grand teton national park wedding

Grand Teton National Park Wedding Rules You Should Know

The park has clear guidelines to protect its landscapes and wildlife. Here’s what you can and can’t bring to your Grand Teton National Park wedding:

Allowed:

Small, low-impact ceremonies
Up to your permit’s listed number of guests
Photography, personal flowers, handheld items
Light acoustic music (if approved ahead of time)

Not Allowed:

Arches or large ceremony structures
Chairs, tables, flower petals, or signage
Confetti, rice, or anything left behind•
Amplified music or generators
Drones
Exclusive use of the location—you must share it with the public
All vendors and guests must pay entrance fees or have an annual park pass.

Can We Have a Wedding Reception After Our Grand Teton National Park Ceremony?

Large wedding receptions are not allowed inside Grand Teton National Park, you still have plenty of beautiful, intimate ways to celebrate after your ceremony though.

The park’s rules prohibit traditional receptions—this includes things like catering set-ups, tables and chairs, amplified music, or large gatherings for dining or dancing. But if you’re keeping things simple and intentional, here are a few great options to celebrate your day:

Picnic-Style Celebrations

With a separate permit, you can host a low-key picnic inside certain areas of the park. This works best for very small groups and should follow all park guidelines (leave no trace, no decor, and shared use with the public). Think charcuterie boards, champagne toasts, or desserts packed in from Jackson and shared lakeside after your vows. It’s simple, sweet, and can feel just as special.

Dinner at a Lodge or Restaurant Outside the Park

Many couples cap off their day with a private dinner at a local venue just outside the park. Options include:

•Jackson Lake Lodge – Classic views with on-site dining

•Amangani – A luxurious, modern mountain escape

•The Snake River Grill, Gather, or local restaurants in Jackson Hole – Great for micro weddings and intimate receptions with local flavor

These spots offer a mix of fine dining, rustic elegance, and friendly service—with zero stress about park regulations.

Rental Homes & Airbnbs

If you’re renting a home in the area, you may be able to host a small home-cooked meal or catered dinner post-ceremony. Just be sure to read the property listing and local ordinances carefully—some properties limit events or group gatherings.

How to Get Married in a Chapel in Grand Teton National Park

If you’re dreaming of a more traditional ceremony with a mountain view twist, Grand Teton National Park is home to two beautiful historic chapels that are open for weddings. These venues offer a unique blend of rustic charm and spiritual significance—plus, you still get those iconic Teton views right outside the door. Important chapel notes:

Chapel wedding bookings are handled separately from official park permits. You’ll need to reach out directly to the chapels or their affiliates to inquire about date availability, required fees, and any denominational guidelines.
While these venues are located inside the park, the Special Use Permit required for outdoor ceremonies does not cover chapel use.

Here are your chapel options:

Chapel of the Transfiguration

Located near Moose, this small wooden chapel features a large window behind the altar that perfectly frames the Teton range. It’s one of the most iconic chapel views in the entire national park system and is a favorite for couples planning classic or faith-based weddings in a natural setting.

Denomination: Episcopal/Christian; however, all couples are welcome with coordination
Seating Capacity: Around 50 guests
Best For: Spiritual or traditional couples, formal ceremonies, guests who prefer a church setting
Bonus: Perfect for a ceremony followed by park photos or a post-wedding meal in Jackson Hole

Find more information here.

Chapel of the Sacred Heart

Tucked near Jackson Lake, this Catholic chapel is built from logs and stone and offers cozy, rustic details in a peaceful forest setting. It’s perfect for slightly larger guest counts and couples wanting a serene lakeside location.

Denomination: Catholic, but open to wider use with approval
Seating Capacity: Up to 100 guests
Best For: Couples planning a Catholic mass with mountain ambiance or a more formal, indoor alternative to an outdoor ceremony

Find more information here.

couple at their jeep after their GTNP wedding

Frequently Asked Questions about Grand Teton National Park Weddings

1. Are there specific locations for Small Dispersed Ceremony permits, or can we choose our own?

There is no official list of designated spots for small dispersed ceremonies. Instead, you propose your own wedding location anywhere in the park that isn’t on the restricted list. You’ll provide a detailed description (such as a map screenshot or GPS pin) when applying for your permit. However, some high-traffic and ecologically sensitive areas (like Jenny Lake, Hidden Falls, and Rockefeller Preserve) are always off-limits. Dispersed permits give you the most flexibility, but your group size must stay at 12 or fewer (with vendors and the couple included).

2. Can we hire a non-local photographer, or do they have to be certified by the park?

You can hire a non-local photographer for your Grand Teton National Park wedding, but all professional photographers—regardless of where they are based—must obtain proper permits from the park to legally photograph weddings. As of the latest updates, photographers are not allowed at dispersed ceremonies of 12 people or fewer outside the six main reserved locations. Always check that your photographer is prepared to follow these requirements.

3. Can we bring decorations, like florals?

Simple, handheld floral bouquets are permitted, but no large decorations, floral arches, installations, or anything that must be set up or affixed to the environment are allowed within Grand Teton National Park ceremony sites. All ceremonies must be simple, rustic, and leave no trace. This rule applies to both reserved site-specific and small dispersed ceremony locations.

4. Are chairs allowed at our ceremony?

Chairs and other seating are not allowed for wedding ceremonies—except in cases where a guest cannot stand for accessibility or medical reasons. The park requires all ceremonies to remain simple and low-impact, so any setup (including chairs) is extremely limited. If you have a guest with special needs, note this in your permit application and confirm approval ahead of time with park staff.

5. What type of handheld floral bouquets are allowed?

•You may bring fresh floral bouquets as long as they are handheld and not left behind—all flowers, including petals, must be packed out with you after the ceremony, to keep the park pristine.

•The flowers or greenery in your bouquet must not include any plant species considered invasive or prohibited by the park or broader National Park Service guidelines.

•Artificial/faux flowers are allowed as handheld bouquets, but all materials must be taken out after your event—nothing may be left behind.

•No flower petals of any kind—fresh, dried, or faux—may be tossed, scattered, or left on the ground in the park as part of your ceremony.

6. Are animals or pets allowed at our Grand Teton National Park wedding ceremony?

Pets—including dogs—are not allowed at wedding ceremonies within Grand Teton National Park.
While pets are permitted in certain areas of the park, they are not allowed on trails, beaches, or ceremony locations. This means your dog or other pets cannot legally attend or participate in your in-park wedding or elopement ceremony.
If including your dog is non-negotiable, consider holding your ceremony just outside the park boundaries—such as at the well-loved Wedding Tree in the Bridger-Teton National Forest—where pets are allowed and you can still enjoy iconic Teton views. You can always meet up inside the park for photos without your pet afterward.

7. Are wedding receptions allowed in Grand Teton National Park?

Traditional wedding receptions are not allowed inside the park. This includes large gatherings with tables, catering, or music. However, there are still great ways to celebrate:

•Host a small permitted picnic in approved areas (simple, no setup, low-impact).

•Head to a local lodge or restaurant (like Jackson Lake Lodge or spots in Jackson Hole).

•Celebrate at a rental property, if the listing allows for small group gatherings.

How Much Does a Grand Teton National Park Wedding Cost?

Budgets can vary, but here’s a general breakdown for a small to mid-sized wedding in the park:

•Special Use Permit – $200

•Marriage License (Wyoming) – Around $30 (apply in person at the Teton County Clerk’s Office)

•Photography – $2,000 to $7,000+, depending on coverage time and experience

•Officiant – $250–$700

•Travel + Lodging – Varies, but $500–$2,000+ for Jackson-area routes and rentals

•Post-Ceremony Celebration – Depends on size and format (picnic, restaurant, or small event space)

Many Grand Teton weddings land in the $5,000–$15,000+ range, depending on how simple or detailed you choose to go.

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Grand Teton National Park Wedding

•Apply early. Permits are limited and open in December for the next calendar year.

•Go weekday + early morning. Sunrise ceremonies are incredibly peaceful and avoid tour bus crowds.

•Keep it simple. Let the landscape shine—less really is more here.

•Bring layers + altitude-friendly shoes. The weather changes quickly, and some sites may require short walks.

•Don’t skip the map. Share directions and meet-up points in your invitations or on your wedding website so your guests feel confident finding the ceremony site.

Ready to Start Planning Your Grand Teton National Park Wedding?

Getting married in Grand Teton means grounding your day in something real—towering peaks, open skies, and the kind of stillness that stays with you. If that sounds like your dream, it’s time to start planning.

As a photographer who specializes in intimate weddings and elopements in the Tetons and Jackson Hole, I’d love to help you document it all—quiet vows, spontaneous moments, and every in-between detail.

Ready to start planning your Grand Teton National Park wedding day? Let’s talk about turning this beautiful space into part of your story.

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