There’s something magical about National Parks. They’re more than just breathtaking landscapes—they’re places where time slows, where the air feels lighter, and where love somehow feels even more powerful. Choosing a National Park for your elopement is a decision filled with intention and adventure, but planning one comes with unique considerations (if I must admit, trust me it’s worth it!). As someone who finds joy in capturing raw, unfiltered moments of connection, here are 8 things to know as you plan your elopement in a National Park! 

National Park Elopement Permit FAQ

How to Choose the National Park

National Park Seasons

How to Plan for the Unexpected

Honoring Leave No Trace

How to Choose an Adventure

Book Your National Park Elopement Vendors

Save the Blog for Later

Book an National Park Elopement Photographer

1. Permits Aren’t Just Paperwork—They’re Your Ticket to a Stress-Free Day (Trust me!)

Planning your elopement in a National Park isn’t just about picking a dreamy spot; it’s about respecting the land and ensuring your day goes smoothly. Almost every National Park requires a special use permit for ceremonies. 

These permits aren’t just bureaucratic red tape—they ensure you have the park’s blessing and access to the spaces you need without surprises like closures or restrictions.

For example, Yosemite National Park offers specific ceremony sites, while Great Smoky Mountains allow more flexibility. Plan ahead, as permits can take weeks (or even months) to process, and some parks limit the number of events they allow per day. 

You can find out each individual parks permit requirements, here! 

2. The Adventure Starts with Choosing Your Park

Each National Park offers a unique vibe that can reflect your love story perfectly. Are you drawn to the dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls of Yosemite, the striking desert landscapes of White Sands, or the peaceful coastal views of Olympic National Park?

Consider accessibility for you and your guests, the activities you want to incorporate (hiking, kayaking, or even a hot spring!), and how the environment matches your vision. Some parks, like Glacier, are ideal for couples seeking a more secluded adventure, while others, like Zion, offer easily accessible viewpoints for stunning ceremonies! 

It’s truly about who you are as a couple and finding the best National Park to represent your story.

3. Timing Isn’t Just About Seasons—It’s About the Soul of the Park

National Parks are living, breathing environments, and timing your elopement means understanding their rhythms. While summer might seem perfect for sunshine, it’s also peak tourist season. Sunrise and sunset can be your best friends for not just dreamy light but also for quiet, intimate moments when the park feels like it’s just for you.

And don’t forget about seasonal quirks. For instance, Glacier’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is often closed until late June, while Joshua Tree shines brightest in the cooler months of spring and fall. Researching your park’s weather patterns and busy times will help you find the magic perfect for your celebration!

Photo by Elsa Eileen Photography at the Glacier National Park

4. Be Prepared to Embrace the Wild

Eloping in nature means leaning into the unexpected. Weather can shift suddenly—rain, wind, or even snow can make an appearance. Trails might be steeper than they looked in photos, and the heat or cold might surprise you.

One of my favorite hiking sites is All Trails to check out what you’re getting into before you go! 

Pack smart: bring layers, sturdy footwear for hiking, and backups for essentials like water and snacks. A portable bouquet that can handle a little adventure and a dress that flows beautifully but doesn’t snag easily are game-changers.

5. Leave No Trace Is a Promise You Make to Nature

The beauty of National Parks is their pristine, untouched quality, and it’s our responsibility to keep it that way. Follow the Leave No Trace principles:

• Stay on trails to protect delicate ecosystems.
• Pack out everything you bring in, including tiny details like biodegradable confetti.
• Consider using faux florals or locally sourced blooms to avoid introducing non-native plants.

It’s not just about rules—it’s about honoring the spaces that make your day so special.

Photo by Dani Purington Photography in the Zion National Park

6. Your Day Should Feel Like an Adventure, Not a Checklist

National Park elopements aren’t just about the ceremony—they’re about the journey. Imagine reading your vows beside a hidden alpine lake, hiking to a cliffside for wedding day portraits, or having your first dance under the stars with only the sounds of nature around you.

One of the joys of eloping in these spaces is the freedom to design a day that’s as unique as your love. Include time to explore, soak in the views, and let the day unfold naturally.

7. Your Vendors Should Feel Like Guides, Not Just Hired Help

Eloping in a National Park comes with its own challenges, and having experienced vendors can make all the difference. Photographers who know the best trails, planners familiar with park regulations, and officiants who can hike alongside you are truly invaluable.

For example, many National Parks have restrictions on amplified sound or décor setups. A knowledgeable vendor will help navigate these rules so you can focus on what matters: your love story.

Photo by Erica Warren Photography in Acadia National Park

Want to book me to be your National Park Elopement Photographer? Let’s get you eloped, here! 

Have an elopement board on Pinterest and want to save this blog for later? Simply hover over the image below, and press, “save.” p.s. it would mean the world to me!

8. It’s About Connection, Not Perfection

The best moments often happen when things don’t go as planned. Maybe the wind catches your veil during your vows, or a curious deer wanders into view during your portraits. These are the memories you’ll cherish—the unscripted, wild moments that make your day uniquely yours.

Photo by BreeAnna Lasher in the Olympic National Park

Remember, it’s not about the “perfect” wedding day—it’s about celebrating a love that’s raw, real, and breathtakingly beautiful in one of the most stunning places on earth. Let this be your permission to screw the traditional norms and create a day that is meaningful to your unique story.