Guide to Eloping in Glacier National Park

Hello! At this point, I’d like to thank you all for reading and supporting me. I was just a small-town Montana girl who loves to take photos. Y’all have helped me be able to do what I love: travel, take pictures, and help make people happy. I couldn’t ask for anything more than being your Montana Elopement Photographer!

While we have done a surface-level look at some of the destinations in Glacier National Park, I thought we could do a deeper dive today. If you haven’t already done so, go back and read the last blog about how to plan your National Park elopement.  There are some helpful tips, and I don’t want to rehash them here. 

It shouldn’t come as a shock, but Glacier Park is one of my favorite places on Earth. With breathtaking views all around, endless hiking opportunities, and ample wildlife, it truly is paradise. While I could go on forever about places to elope, I wanted to narrow it down and focus on a few of my favorites. One thing to note before we get started: There are two entrances main entrances to the Park, one on the West side and one on the East side. I’ll note which side is easiest for each location (some may be accessible from both). So, without further ado, here’s your Guide to Eloping in Glacier National Park…

  1. Pick your dream location:
  1. Lake McDonald (West): Lake McDonald is a little bit of a gateway to the Park. It’s the first major feature you see when you enter from the Park’s West side, and it’s impossible to miss. With spectacular views of crystal clear water with mountainscapes surrounding the entirety, there are endless possibilities for places to shoot your elopement. Two major pluses to this location: water makes a lovely backdrop to any wedding photos, AND there’s no hiking necessary if you would like to have a beautiful elopement without having to worry about getting sweaty, changing clothes, finding parking at a crowded trailhead, or ruining your wedding clothes. There’s no wrong place to elope at Lake McDonald!
  2. Avalanche Lake (West): If you’re looking for a hike but not wanting to test your endurance, not looking forward to the possibility of an unwanted animal encounter, or having to worry about whether or not you’re in good enough shape to make it, this is the perfect option. Avalanche Lake is just a 6-mile, leisurely hike with amazing views at the end of the trek. It’s well-trafficked, so dangerous wildlife tends to stay away. Two drawbacks to this one: parking can be almost impossible, and you would have a crowd watching you take your elopement photos.
  3. Iceberg Lake (East): While this 9.5-mile hike is considerably tougher and longer than the Avalanche Lake trail, the quieter journey and views of a glacial lake at the end make it more than worth the trip. Wildlife on this trail is always possible (including Grizzly Bears), so be sure to bring your bear spray and take all necessary precautions. If you’re up for the adventure, it’s well worth the time and effort. 
  4. Hidden Lake (Both): If you want an elopement with the possibility of seeing a plethora of wildlife, all while being safe from harm, this is the place for you. There’s almost always a herd of bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and all the marmots you can dream of along the trail. There’s usually a Grizzly Bear or two close by, but the trailhead begins at a ranger station, and they make sure to keep hikers safe on this 5-mile hike. The one drawback here: It’s almost as busy (if not more busy) than Avalanche Lake. So parking and quiet places for elopement photos are very hard to come by.
  5. Grinnell Glacier/Lake(East): This is arguably the toughest hike on the list. The 11-mile hike has a steeper incline than most, especially on the ascent to the glacial lake at the end. That being said, the constant views behind and around you won’t disappoint. And if you’ve ever dreamed of jumping into an ICE-COLD lake after your ceremony, you’ve found the hike for you. The parking lot for this hike is also located next to the Many Glacier Hotel, which is both a beautiful sight and a great place to get ready and/or stay before and after the elopement.
  6. Cracker Lake (East): I stated above that this is my favorite of the hikes on the list. Although it’s 12 miles of trekking, it’s a fairly leisurely hike with cool features (a ghost town, a gold mine, and turquoise-blue waters) to pique your interest and use as the backdrop for some one-of-a-kind wedding photos. Be warned, sometimes the water feeding into the lake turns it a slightly grey but beautiful-in-its-own-way color.
  7. Apgar Lookout (West): The first mile is easy, but once you start ascending on this 7-mile hike, you don’t stop. The good news is that it’s only 2.5 miles of hiking since the first mile is just a stroll in the woods. You’ll definitely test your leg strength on the rest of it, but the cool watchtower and views of almost the whole park (including the entire length of Lake McDonald) make it a very cool and unique place to shoot your elopement photos.
  8. Sun Point (East): If you want to tell people you hiked to take your elopement photos without actually having to go far, you found the spot. It’s an easy quarter-mile hike down to the rocky ledge overlooking St. Mary Lake. The drive over Logan Pass to get there and the views from that ledge make it an ideal place for your wedding day. Warning: The winds on the rocky ledge can be pesky (and sometimes dangerous). This isn’t the place if you want perfect hair for your photos.

Eloping in Glacier National Park is an incredible way to exchange vows surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in the U.S. Think snow- capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes and lush forests–whats not to love?

2. Get your wedding permit.

Glacier National Park requires a permit for elopements. Make sure you apply for a Special Use Permit at least 60 days in advance- this process is pretty simple but its important to get it sorted early. Check the Glacier National Park website for the most up-to-date information.

Know the rules: Some areas may have restrictions on the number of guests, timing, and decorations, so its good to check n with the park to make sure you’re following their guidelines. This. keeps the park beautiful and protected.

3. Pick the best time of the year

Summer & Fall: The best time to elope in Glacier is usually from late June to mid September. This is when most of the park is accessible because the high-altitude areas are less snowed-in. If you love warmer weather, this is the time to go.

Off season: if you’re looking ofr a quieter, less crowded experience, you might consider late spring or early fall. Just be prepared for cooler temps and the possibility of some now, especially at higher elevations.

4. Hire a Local Officiant

Find someone local: There are lots of talented officiants in the Glacier area who can help make your ceremony feel personal and memorable. You can also ask a friend or family member to be your officiant to make your day even more special.

5. Photographers– Capture Magic

Hire a Glacier- Savvy Photographer: Glacier National Park is a photographer’s dreams, and you’ll want to make sure the beauty of the park is captured beautifully. Find a photographer (me ;)) who knows the area like the back of their hand.

6. Celebrate in the Park

Picnic or Quiet Dinner: After the ceremony, consider a simple picnic in one of the parks beautiful picnic areas or by the lake. Pack some snacks, enjoy the ceremony, and reflect on your special day.

Adventurous Fun: If your’re feeling adventurous, why not explore the park together after your ceremony? Go for a hike, take a boat ride, or explore the nearby trails. Glacier has endless opportunities for outdoor activities, and they make for unforgettable memories.

Campfire or Stargazing: If you’re spending the night in the park, consider ending the day with a cozy campfire (in a designated fire pit, and allowed) or stargazing. Glacier National Park is known for its dark skies making it the perfect for an evening under the stars.

9. Pack Light and Smart

Prepare for the outdoors: While Glacier is stunning, its also rugged. Make sure you pack comfortable shoes for any hiking or walking, and bring layers to stay warm. A heavy jacket, even in summer is alwasy a good idea for the park. There is snow year round in GNP.

Eco Friendly: Glacier i s all about conservation, so keep it simple and eco-friendly. Bring reusable items such as water bottles and avoid single-use plastics. Leave no trace and respect the environment.

I will admit I’m biased, but this is my favorite spot in the whole state to shoot elopement photographs.  There really isn’t a bad place in the Park, and you’ll look at the photos for years to come and remember the amazing experience. Oh, and don’t forget to secure your vehicle registration here! You can also navigate the website from there for more information. Next up, you’ll find some amazing places to stay in order to complement your trip!

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Good vibes, great adventures, and even greater love stories