Pedernales Falls is a beautiful destination to exchange your vows amidst the rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country. Where cascading waterfalls meet ancient limestone cliffs. Pedernales Falls State Park offers a sanctuary for couples seeking an adventure elopement that’s both intimate and unforgettable. 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 elopement journey. This guide will help you navigate the stunning landscapes, permits, and planning for your dream Pedernales Falls elopement.
You Can Plan The Perfect Pedernales Falls Elopement
When You Should Elope in Pedernales Falls & 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 Texas Hill Country elopement, there are a few things you want to keep in mind. First off, the Hill Country is a popular destination for weekend day trippers. No matter which location in this area you visit, you can guarantee you are going to run into a lot of tourists eager to share the experience. Because many people flock to this area while the weather is nice, 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.
Due to Pedernales Falls popularity, you’re going to want to know how to beat the crowds to enjoy this stunning landscape in solitude. I can help you with that! As avid lovers of the Hill Country, my husband and I have spent much time traveling the Pedernales area and know it well. You are in good hands with me as your Pedernales Falls elopement guide.
Find The Season At Pedernales Falls 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, we are in Texas, the summer is unforgiving! The summer heat starts in late May/June and last well into September. In mid summer, temperatures usually reach well above 90 degrees Fahrenheit by mid morning. For that reason, I don’t recommend a summer elopement. However, if summer works best for you, hydrate well, elope at sunrise and make a day out of it by enjoying the swimming hole afterwards!
Fall: During fall, the weather starts to cool, and more hiking crowds return rather than swimming crowds. The Texas Hill Country, including Pedernales Falls State Park, experiences fall foliage, but it’s a little later than in other regions, with peak colors typically appearing in late October through the end of November, with mid-November being the peak.
Winter: Winter in Central Texas is generally mild and can make for a great time of year to elope. Pedernales Falls State Park, offers a unique winter experience with cooler temperatures, lower water levels making the falls more navigable to walk across and more comfortable hiking and exploring.
Spring: During the spring, Pedernales Falls offers a unique blend of generally mild weather, and blooming wildflowers. Spring is a beautiful time across Texas and especially at Pedernales Falls. The flowers bloom and the trees green up around the river making it a great time for your elopement.
No matter the season, Pedernales Falls has so many areas that with the right guide, you will find solitude.
Pedernales Falls State Park Elopement Locations
Pedernales Falls offers a unique experience for your elopement backdrop. The river levels are ever changing making it different every time. As your Pedernales Falls elopement photographer, I’ve scouted some of the most breathtaking locations:
It is important to remember, this is a river bed and it can flood, fast, at any time of year! It is important to keep an eye on the weather and have a plan B in place.
Remote River Banks: For couples wanting absolute privacy, hiking to less traveled areas is recommended. I can guide you to more seclude areas away from the busier swimming areas and main falls. Even if it is just to share your vows in private and then take portraits afterwards at the falls.
The Pedernales Falls Overlook: This iconic spot offers panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding canyon. Perfect for a dramatic ceremony.
The River Trail: A scenic hike along the Pedernales River, leading to secluded spots perfect for intimate vows.
The Swimming Area: While swimming isn’t allowed directly at the falls, other parts of the river offer beautiful water settings. I would not recommend this area though on warmer days as everyone else is flocking to this area to cool off.
The Scenic Overlook Trail: Providing elevated views of the park’s diverse landscapes.
The Butterfly Habitat Trail: Especially stunning during wildflower season, perfect for whimsical elopement photos.
How to Get a Texas State Park Special Use License
For your Pedernales Falls elopement, you will need two things: a Texas wedding license and a Special use permit. To get a marriage license in Texas, you must apply in person at a county clerk’s office. You must meet certain age requirements, provide valid identification, and pay a fee. There is a 72-hour waiting period after receiving the license before the marriage ceremony can take place. The waiting period can be waived for members of the armed forces or if the couple has completed a premarital education course. You can purchase a marriage license in any county in Texas and get married in any other county in Texas. You must get married within 90 days of the date the license was issued
Pedernales Falls State Park requires a Special Use Permit for elopements. It’s crucial to apply well in advance through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Be sure to apply sooner rather than later to reserve your spot! Remember, reserving a special use permit does not mean you will have the park to yourself.
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.
Enjoy The Surrounding Texas Hill Country
The Texas Hill Country is a popular destination for good reason. This area of Texas is beautiful year round but especially during wildflower season. Johnson City, is just 10 miles west of the park, and is home to parks, art galleries and museums. Dripping Springs, is 13 miles southeast, and offers art galleries, wineries and breweries, and more. No matter what you’re interested in, this area has something to offer everyone making it a fun destination to enjoy during your elopement week.
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:
- Special Use Permit
- Texas Wedding License: $60
- Entrance Fee: $6 per person
From there, you will need to factor in lodging, food, transportation, artificial flowers, outfits, and an officiant.
Hiring a Pedernales Falls 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 Pedernales Falls Elopement
Hopefully, this guide helps as you plan your Pedernales Falls 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!
