Best Places to Elope in the US | 2026
The United States is vast, diverse, and absolutely full of breathtaking places to elope. From jagged mountain peaks and lush forests to sun-drenched deserts and dramatic coastlines, there’s a perfect spot for every couple — and the best part? You don’t always have to travel far to find it. Over the years, we’ve had the joy of photographing countless couples at some of the most stunning locations across the country, from hidden forest clearings in Washington to sweeping desert vistas in Utah. We’ve curated this list of our absolute favorite U.S. elopement spots to help you find the location that feels uniquely yours — and to make planning your adventure a little bit easier.
Best Mountain Destinations in the U.S
The North Cascades, Washington
North Cascade National Park and the Mount Baker Wilderness is one of our favorite areas here in the PNW. They are also called the American Alps! And for a good reason! In this area you will find endless mountain layers and rugged mountain peaks as far the eyes can see! On top of that, the fall colors are absolutely breathtaking!
Best time to visit the North Cascades:
Late July through early-October. The snow finally melts from the high passes by July, revealing wildflower-covered meadows and accessible mountain trails.
Permit info:
A Special Use Permit is required for ceremonies inside the National Park. You can apply directly through the North Cascades National Park website.
Applications are recommended at least 4 weeks in advance. Interested to get married in the Mount Baker Wilderness outside the National Park? As of 2025, no permits are required.
What we love about The North Cascades & Mt Baker Wilderness:
Epic mountain views and glacier lakes
Easily accessible ceremony locations
Very few crowds compared to other parks
The fall colors in the North Cascades are insane
Want to learn more about Eloping in the North Cascades? We’ve created this helpful guide on How to Elope in the North Cascades
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mount Rainier rises over 14,000 feet and dominates the horizon — a true Pacific Northwest icon. With vibrant meadows, old-growth forests, and glacier views in every direction, it’s one of the most breathtaking elopement destinations in the US.
Best time to visit Mount Rainier:
Mid-July through early-October for wildflowers, fall colors and clear trails. Early fall (September–October) offers stunning colors and fewer crowds. Looking for wildflowers? The end of July and first week of August they will be in full bloom!
Permit info:
A Special Use Permit is required for any ceremony. Apply through the park’s permit office. Permits typically cost $275 and require at least four weeks of processing time.
What we love about it Mount Rainier National Park:
Wildflower meadows around Sunrise and Paradise
Stunning Fall Colors in September
Easy access viewpoints — perfect for couples + family guests
Open year round! Experience all seasons in this beautiful park.
Want to elope in this beautiful park? Here is everything you need to know about how to elope in Mount Rainier National Park.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Few mountain ranges are as iconic as the Tetons — sharp granite peaks rising directly from the valley floor. It’s a dream destination for couples who want jaw-dropping mountain views without a long hike.
Best time to visit:
June through September for lush green meadows and accessible trails. Early October can bring golden aspens and crisp air — perfect for fall elopements.
Permit info:
You’ll need a $200 Wedding/Elopement Permit from the National Park Service. Apply online and allow at least 4 weeks for processing. Only a few designated ceremony sites are available, but portraits can be taken anywhere in the park.
What we love about the Grand Tetons:
Easy access to stunning views of the Teton Skyline
Wildlife sightings (moose, elk, and even bison!)
Wildflowers & Fall Colors
Perfect for group sizes up to 25 people
Glacier National Park, Montana
Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier is pure alpine magic — icy blue lakes, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping valleys carved by glaciers. It’s one of the most photogenic and pristine places in the US.
Best time to visit:
Mid-July through early September. Many roads and trails (including Going-to-the-Sun Road) open fully only in summer.
Permit info:
A $125 Special Use Permit is required. The process is simple, but book early — Glacier has limited daily ceremony permits.
What we love about Glacier National Park
Mirror-like reflections on alpine lakes
Wildflower-covered meadows in July and August
Stunning Fall Colors
So much wildlife sightings! Mountain goats, bears, moose, etc
Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
For couples dreaming of a remote, untamed adventure, Kenai Fjords delivers. Towering glaciers, coastal cliffs, and fjords filled with whales and sea lions create a landscape that feels truly wild.
Best time to visit:
Late June through early September, when the weather is mild and accessible by boat or helicopter. Winters are harsh but breathtaking for the adventurous.
Permit info:
A Special Use Permit is required from the National Park Service. Apply several weeks ahead and coordinate with local vendors familiar with Alaska’s logistics.
What we love about it:
Adventurous activities like helicopter tours, glacier kayaking/hiking, or boat tours
Glaciers surrounded by giant mountains
Coastal Cliffs and Whale sightings
The thrill of eloping somewhere few couples ever reach
Alabama Hills, California
Nestled beneath the Sierra Nevada Mountains near Lone Pine, Alabama Hills is a desert-meets-mountain dream. Its unique rock formations and the snowy peaks of Mount Whitney make it an otherworldly backdrop.
Best time to visit:
March through May and September through November for mild temperatures. Summer can be very hot, while winter occasionally brings snow.
Permit info:
A Special Use Permit is required through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The process is straightforward — allow at least 2–4 weeks for approval.
What we love about it:
Iconic rock arches framing the Sierra peaks
Stunning sunrise and sunset glow on the granite
Quiet, spacious desert energy perfect for intimate vows
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite is legendary — granite cliffs, waterfalls, and valleys that have inspired generations. It’s one of the most breathtaking and timeless elopement locations in the world.
Best time to visit:
May through October for accessibility to iconic viewpoints like Taft Point and Glacier Point. Spring offers waterfalls at their peak; fall brings golden tones and fewer crowds.
Permit info:
A $150 Special Use Permit is required for any ceremony, available through the park’s website. Apply at least 30 days in advance.
What we love about it:
The park is perfect for bigger group sizes
Waterfalls cascading through the valley in spring
Easy accessible locations
Mountain Views
Learn more about How to Elope in Yosemite National Park or check out this stunning 2-Day Micro Wedding in Yosemite
San Juan Mountains, Colorado
Located in southwestern Colorado, the San Juan Mountains are a dream for adventurous couples who love rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and old mining towns with character. With mountain passes that seem to touch the sky and wildflower meadows that stretch for miles, it’s easily one of the most photogenic ranges in the US.
Best time to visit:
Late June through early October. Summer brings green valleys and blooming wildflowers, while fall transforms the entire range into a golden wonderland.
Permit info:
Most elopements in the San Juan Mountains take place on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service (like Uncompahgre or San Juan National Forest). You’ll likely need a Special Use Permit, which is easy to obtain with a few weeks’ notice. Check specific ranger districts for requirements.
What we love about it:
Dramatic alpine views near Ouray, Telluride, and Silverton
Jeep-accessible passes like Yankee Boy Basin and Imogene Pass for epic ceremony spots
Explosive fall colors that light up entire valleys
Quaint mountain towns with cozy cabins and local charm
Want to see more inspiration for your Colorado Mountain Elopement? Check out this stunning beautiful wildflower elopement in Crested Butte or Epic off-road Yankee Boy Basin Elopement
Best Forest & Waterfall Destinations in the U.S
Hoh Rainforest, Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is a world of its own — rugged coastline, moss-draped rainforests, alpine peaks, and crystal lakes all within a few hours’ drive. It’s one of the most diverse national parks in the U.S., making it perfect for couples who want variety in their elopement photos.
Best time to visit the Olympics:
May–October offers the best mix of mild weather and accessibility to most park areas. Spring brings vibrant greens, while fall offers golden tones and quieter trails.
Permit Info:
An Olympic National Park wedding permit is required for ceremonies, which you can apply for through the park’s Special Use Permit office.
Is your group size under 5 people (with photographer included)? No permit is required.
What we love about Hoh Rainforest:
The mossy canopy of the Hoh Rainforest
Easy accessible locations
Variety of backdrops all within one park
Accessible all year
Redwood National & State Parks, California
Home to the tallest trees on earth, the Redwoods feel sacred and humbling. These parks are made for couples who want to feel small in the best possible way — embraced by giants that have stood for centuries.
Best time to visit the Redwoods:
Late spring through early fall offers the most reliable weather.
Permit info:
A special use permit is required for ceremonies in most Redwood areas. Each location (state or national) has slightly different regulations, so it’s best to start the application a few months in advance.
What we love about the Redwoods:
Towering redwoods that create natural cathedrals
Open All Year
Nearby coastal cliffs for variety in photos
Sequoia National Park, California
Known for its massive sequoia trees and alpine meadows, Sequoia National Park offers a more mountainous take on the classic forest elopement. It’s grand, timeless, and incredibly photogenic.
Best time to visit Sequoia National Park:
June–October, when higher elevation roads are open and the weather is warm. Summer brings clear skies and wildflowers.
Permit info:
A special use permit is required for elopements, usually processed through the park’s administrative office. Many areas can host small ceremonies under 15 people.
What we love about the Sequoia’s:
Feeling small amongst these giants
Different scenery. Mountain views, hidden meadows, raging waterfalls to giant trees.
Easily Accessible
Columbia River Gorge & Mount Hood, Oregon
Just outside Portland, the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood area is a Pacific Northwest dream — dramatic cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and mountain views all in one region. If you are looking for raging waterfalls and mossy forest floors, this is the place to be!
Best Time to Visit the Columbia River Gorge:
Late spring through early fall (May–October) for comfortable temps and clear trails. Spring brings lush greens, wildflowers and powerful waterfalls.
Permit Info:
Some waterfall areas in the Gorge (like Multnomah Falls) require a permit for ceremonies. Mount Hood National Forest also has a straightforward permit process for small elopements.
What We Love About It:
Dozens of accessible waterfalls
Fern-covered trails and forests
Easily Accessible
If you are chasing waterfalls, we highly recommend checking out this Iceland Waterfall Elopement.
Best Desert & Canyon Destinations in the U.S
Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend is one of the most underrated national parks for elopements. Set along the Rio Grande in far West Texas, this remote desert landscape offers vast canyons, mountain vistas, and quiet river valleys — perfect for couples looking for solitude and raw beauty
Best time to visit Big Bend National Park:
October–April offers cooler temps and clear skies. Avoid midsummer, when desert heat can reach triple digits.
Permit info:
A wedding permit is required for any ceremony inside the park. Applications are processed through the park’s Special Use Permit office, and approvals usually take a few weeks.
What we love about eloping in Big Bend:
Dramatic overlooks and Canyons
Perfect location for Astro Photography
Golden desert light that photographs beautifully
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon’s famous hoodoos — towering red and orange rock formations — create one of the most unique elopement backdrops in the world and it probably by far one of my (Sanne) favorite national parks for landscapes.
Best time to visit Bryce Canyon:
April–October for comfortable weather. Winter can be magical too, with snow dusting the red rocks for a striking contrast.
Permit Info:
A wedding permit is required for ceremonies, which can be obtained through the park’s website. Only certain viewpoints are approved for weddings.
What we love about Bryce Canyon:
Stunning sunsets & sunrises
Easy access to epic viewpoints
Very quiet outside the busy season
Dreamlike (out of this world) atmosphere
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion is a classic — steep sandstone cliffs, winding canyons, and golden desert light. It’s one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring national parks for adventure elopements.
Best time to visit Zion
Spring and fall (April–May and September–October) are ideal for mild weather and fewer crowds. Want no crowds at all? Visit late November/early December before snowfall.
Permit Info:
Zion requires a Special Use Permit for all ceremonies, typically submitted at least three weeks in advance. Only specific ceremony locations are allowed.
What we love abut eloping in Zion National Park:
Lots of different scenery in the area
Variety of short hikes and scenic overlooks
The Virgin River running through the canyon
Perfect for Elopements or Micro Weddings
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Often overlooked compared to Zion or Bryce, Capitol Reef is a hidden treasure — rugged cliffs, colorful rock layers, and quiet desert valleys perfect for a private ceremony.
Best time to visit Capitol Reef:
March–May and September–October for pleasant weather. Summers are hot but beautiful for sunrise or sunset ceremonies.
Permit Info:
You’ll need a wedding permit from the park’s Special Use Permit office. Processing is typically quick.
What we love about eloping in Capitol Reef:
Low crowds and peaceful settings
Epic stargazing and night photography
Insane rock formations from Arches, Rock Domes, to Canyons and Arches
Stunning off-roading trails to epic overlooks
Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada
Death Valley is surreal — vast salt flats, pastel canyons, and golden dunes create a cinematic landscape that looks out of this world.
Best time to visit Death Valley:
November–March for cooler weather. Avoid summer months due to extreme heat.
Permit Info:
A Special Use Permit is required for ceremonies, available through the park’s website. Processing time is usually 4–6 weeks.
What we love about Death Valley
Salt flats that look endless in photos
Landscape that looks from another planet
Remote and peaceful atmosphere
Moab Area, Utah (Arches & Canyonlands National Parks)
Moab is an elopement paradise — red rocks, natural arches, mesas, and endless desert skies. With two national parks and tons of BLM land nearby, it’s one of the most versatile elopement destinations in the Southwest.
Best time to visit Moab:
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–October) for ideal temps. Winter is also peaceful for smaller crowds.
Permit Info:
Ceremonies inside Arches or Canyonlands require permits, but nearby BLM land offers more flexibility and privacy. We can help find the perfect spot for your ceremony.
What we love about Eloping in Moab:
Iconic Arches and Canyonlands views
Vivid red rock landscapes
Best place for stargazing
Perfect for Off-roading, Canyoneering, and other outdoorsy activities
Best Coastal Elopement Locations in the U.S
Big Sur, California
Big Sur is the definition of dramatic beauty. Towering cliffs, turquoise waters, and windswept cypress trees make it one of the most iconic elopement destinations in California. The stretch of Highway 1 between Carmel and San Simeon offers countless hidden gems for intimate ceremonies.
Best time to visit Big Sur:
April–October for the best mix of mild weather and clear skies. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall offers calm winds and fewer crowds.
Permit Info:
Some popular ceremony spots (like Garrapata State Park and Pfeiffer Beach) require a wedding permit. Big Sur area does have one of the highest Permit prices we’ve seen in the state ranging anywhere from $400 to a $800 depending on the park.
What we love about Big Sur:
Mild climate and accessible year round
Different scenery from coastal cliffs, rolling hills to forest vibes
Easy accessible locations
Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast is known for its dramatic sea stacks, foggy mornings, and windswept beaches that stretch for miles. From Cannon Beach to Samuel H. Boardman, it’s full of photogenic spots perfect for a peaceful elopement.
Best time to visit the Oregon Coast:
May–October for the best weather. Winter can be stunning for moody photos, but storms are common.
Permit Info:
Most beaches and state parks require an Oregon State Parks permit for ceremonies. The process is simple and affordable.
What we love about the Oregon Coast:
Easy accessible beaches and cliffs
Cute beach towns & amazing food
Forest trails that lead straight to the ocean
The most stunning sunsets on the West Coast
Olympic Peninsula, Washington
The Olympic Peninsula offers a rare combination of rugged coastline, lush rainforest, and mountain backdrops — all within a short drive of each other. It’s perfect for couples who want coastal magic with PNW vibes.
Best time to visit Olympic Peninsula:
May–October offers the driest weather and best access to coastal trails. Spring and fall bring softer light and fewer visitors.
Permit Info:
A Special Use Permit is required for ceremonies within Olympic National Park, which covers many of the peninsula’s most scenic beaches. If your group size is under 5 people, you are not required to get a permit.
What we love about the Olympic Peninsula:
Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach’s dramatic sea stacks
Exploring tide pools for sea creatures
Easily accessible
Learn more about How to Elope in Olympic National Park
Hawaii (All Islands)
Few places are more romantic than Hawaii. Each island offers something unique — lush rainforests, volcanic cliffs, black sand beaches, and turquoise waters. It’s a tropical paradise for couples craving warmth, color, and adventure.
Best Time to Visit Hawaii:
Year-round! April–October offers the driest weather, while winter months bring lush greenery and big surf on the north shores.
Permit Info:
All beach weddings in Hawaii require a simple online permit. National or state park ceremonies (like Haleakalā or Nā Pali Coast) need separate permits.
What We Love About It:
Dramatic cliffs of Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast
Waterfalls and tropical forests
Black, green, and white sand beaches
Fun activities like helicopter and boat tours, kayaking, snorkeling and so much more.
How to Choose the Best Place for You
With so many stunning places to elope in the U.S., it can be hard to narrow it down to just one. The perfect spot isn’t only about the views — it’s about how it feels and what kind of experience you want to have together. Here’s how to find the location that fits your story best.
Budget & Travel Logistics
Your budget and travel plans can play a big role in choosing your elopement destination.
Some national parks and scenic areas are easy to reach with minimal travel expenses, while others require flights, car rentals, and a few nights’ stay in remote lodges.
If you’re dreaming of a quick weekend adventure, look for destinations within a few hours’ drive or a short domestic flight. If you want to turn your elopement into a full vacation, consider a more remote or bucket-list location and plan a few extra days to explore.
Pro Tip: Think beyond airfare — include park fees, permits, accommodations, meals, and adventure activities (like kayaking or helicopter rides) in your budget from the start.
Season & Weather
Every location looks and feels different depending on the time of year. The season you choose can completely change your experience — from wildflower meadows in the summer to snowy peaks in winter.
Here are a few quick guidelines:
Summer: Great for mountain access, wildflowers, and long daylight hours.
Fall: Crisp air, fewer crowds, and golden tones — perfect for cozy elopements.
Winter: Snowy wonderlands and dramatic scenery, ideal for adventurous couples.
Spring: Lush greens, waterfalls at their peak, and mild weather.
Pro Tip: If you have a specific vision (like snow, alpine lakes, or fall colors), work backward from that — it will naturally narrow down your best date and destination options.
Guest Count & Accessibility
How many people you’re inviting can influence which locations are a good fit.
Some places are ideal for just the two of you, while others can accommodate small gatherings or a handful of guests.
If you’re bringing guests, look for accessible locations with nearby parking, shorter trails, and restrooms. If it’s just you two (and maybe your dog!), you can be more flexible — hiking to a mountaintop or canoeing across a lake for your ceremony.
Pro Tip: Even if you plan a ceremony with guests, consider setting aside time for private adventure portraits before or after the main celebration.
Permit & Legal Considerations
Every park or public land has its own permit requirements, and it’s important to secure them early.
These permits help protect the environment and ensure your ceremony runs smoothly without interruptions.
Some locations require:
Special Use Permits for ceremonies
Photography Permits for professional coverage
Marriage Licenses that vary by state (some require waiting periods or witnesses)
Pro Tip: We help all our couples navigate permits and paperwork so you can focus on the fun parts — like picking the perfect view for your vows.
Learn More about what is all included in Our Elopement Packages & Pricing
Vibe & Activities (Are you hiking, canoeing, beach-chilling?)
This is where your personalities shine. Think about what kind of day feels like you.
Are you hiking to an alpine lake at sunrise, kayaking across a glassy fjord, having a picnic on the beach, or just relaxing with your toes in the sand?
Choosing activities you already love makes your elopement feel authentic and joyful.
If you’re not sure yet, we love helping couples brainstorm experiences that align with the landscapes they’re drawn to.
Pro Tip: Your elopement day can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you want — from hiking boots and backpacks to champagne and starlight.
How to plan your elopement once you’ve chosen your location?
Once you’ve picked your dream destination, it’s time to bring it all to life!
From travel logistics and permits to timelines and vendors, planning an elopement can feel like a lot — but it doesn’t have to be.
We’ve created a detailed guide that walks you through every step, from choosing your date to crafting an intentional, stress-free experience. Check it out here: How to Elope
When you’re ready to dive in and start planning your day, explore our Elopement Packages & Pricing to find the perfect fit for your vision.
Each package includes personalized guidance, location recommendations, and full planning support — so you can focus on what really matters: celebrating your love in an unforgettable place.
Not sure which locations fits best with your vision?
Schedule a Free Zoom Consult with Us where we can get to know each other, hear more about your vision, and brainstorm about possible locations!