I am so excited to share these Glacier National Park Fall engagement photos with you guys! I had the absolute pleasure of capturing Brock and Mikayla’s engagement session last October!
This session was so fun to photograph because Brock had just proposed to Mikayla a couple of days prior and then surprised her with an engagement session that he had already booked with me! Because their engagement session was so soon after the proposal, their excitement and joy was high, which translated so beautifully through their photos. I love how thoughtful Brock’s plan was: keeping the proposal intimate and private, then giving Mikayla time to prepare for the photos (choosing her outfit, doing her hair, all the fun details!).
Glacier National Park is truly the best backdrop for engagement photos! You really can’t go wrong with any location in the park. From Lake McDonald, to Logan Pass, to Many Glacier…it’s all so majestic! If you are looking for a spot with those epic mountain views and easy access, Big Bend is the perfect pick. It’s one of my favorite spots in the park! This location is especially popular for sessions and elopements because it has easy access, no hiking required, and it’s STUNNING. Just be prepared that other elopements and sessions will likely be taking place at the same time as yours, especially if it is at sunset. Don’t let this stop you though, because there’s plenty of space for everyone!
October can be a tricky time in the park if you want to guarantee access to the higher elevation locations such as Big Bend and Logan Pass. As soon as the winter weather hits the higher elevation, Going-To-The-Sun-Road shuts down for the season. And since there’s no way to predict the weather, we never know when exactly that will happen! It typically happens mid October, but if you want an October engagement session or elopement, it’s best to go into it with an open mind and a plan B in place. September and October are my favorite months in Glacier. It’s less crowded, the air is crisp, and the Fall colors are unmatched.
Thankfully, the road was still open for Brock and Mikayla’s early October engagement session! We had the most beautiful golden Fall colors, as well as some crazy wind! And when I say it was windy, I mean really windy! But we didn’t let it bring the mood down, we embraced it and we had the most fun with it. Somehow, Mikayla’s hair in the wind looked even more magical than it already is!
Photographing Brock and Mikayla was such a joy. Their connection was so natural and full of genuine love, which just makes my job feel so easy . We spent the evening running around Big Bend, laughing, braving the chill, and soaking in the beauty of the mountains surrounding us. Glacier National Park in the Fall is nothing short of magical. The vibrant colors, crisp air, and quieter roads make it such a special time to experience the park—it might just be my favorite season here!
You can also check out these cuties on the Montana Bride instagram! And check out Montana Bride for allll things wedding planning. They are an incredible resource to finding vendors local to Montana!
If you’re dreaming of Glacier National Park engagement photos, there are a few things to consider when starting the planning process. Whether you’re a local or traveling in for your session, here are a few key things to consider when making your plans:
Pick the Right Location
Glacier is filled with so many beautiful locations, so you really can’t go wrong. Some of my favorite spots for engagement photos include:
Each spot offers a different vibe, and I’m happy to help you choose based on your vision and time of year!
Time of Year
Glacier’s seasons are dramatic and unpredictable! If you’re hoping for high-elevation locations like Logan Pass or Big Bend, plan for July through early October, when Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically open. Want wildflowers and lush greens? July and August are the perfect time for that! Craving fall colors and cooler temps? Late September to early October is your window—but be flexible on location in case of early snow.
Pack & Dress for Adventure
Even in the summer, Glacier can be chilly, especially at elevation. Layers are key! Think about your outfit colors too! Neutrals, earthy tones, or muted colors look stunning against the mountain landscapes.
Also, don’t forget the essentials: water, snacks, bear spray (yes, really!), and a backup outfit if you want variety or run into unexpected weather.
Work with a Local Photographer (Hey, that’s me!)
Having someone who knows the park, the light, and how to navigate unpredictable weather can take the pressure off and make your session a true adventure. I’ll help guide the location choice, permits (if needed), timing, and create a plan B just in case nature throws a curveball. If you are planning your Glacier National Park engagement session or elopement, I would love to chat with you! You can contact me here, or learn a little bit more about me and the experience you’ll get working with me here.
Glacier National Park // Kalispell // Whitefish // Flathead Valley
Sarah Joy Photo is a Montana based wedding, elopement and family photographer. Serving Glacier National Park and the surrounding area, but available for travel worldwide. Specializing in nostalgic imagery on digital + film, with a heart for telling your story in an honest and organic way.
The absolute best day with an incredibly talented photographer and now friend. You made us feel right at home and effortlessly captured our love. Thank you for the bottom of our hearts!
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