How to Elope in Glacier National Park

Are you dreaming of eloping in Glacier National Park but don’t know where to start?

I’ve got you covered! Planning an elopement in a National Park can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not from the area or unfamiliar with the park’s ins and outs. Most of my summer is spent in Glacier, capturing elopements, families, and couples, so I’ve learned a thing or two along the way. Which is why I created this Glacier National Park elopement guide! To help couples like you navigate the planning process with ease.

Every elopement is unique, and this guide is here to inspire and inform you. Take what resonates, leave what doesn’t, and most importantly: enjoy the journey. I hope this makes your planning process a little simpler and a lot more exciting! So, let’s get started on learning how to elope in Glacier National Park!

In this blog post, we will go over 9 essential steps to eloping in Glacier National Park.

• Choosing your photographer
• Choosing your date and time
• Choosing ceremony location
• Applying for your permit
• Booking your vendors
• Obtaining your marriage license
• Booking your lodging
• Planning the rest of your trip
• Have fun!

If you want to chat, you can contact me here, or learn a little more about me here. Now, let’s dive in!

Step 1: Choose Your Photographer

If you’re flexible with your elopement date, I highly recommend booking your photographer as one of the first steps in your planning process! A local photographer will not only be familiar with Glacier’s breathtaking scenery but also understand the logistics involved in planning an elopement here. They’ll be a valuable resource, guiding you through the details and helping make the process seamless.

When choosing a photographer, find someone whose work and personality truly resonate with you! A strong connection will help you feel at ease in front of the camera, allowing your love story to be captured in the most authentic way.

If my style and approach speak to you, I’d love to be part of your special day! I not only capture your day, but I will also step in as planner. From permits, to locations, to timelines…I’m here to help create a perfect Glacier elopement day customized to you! If you want to chat, you can fill out my contact form here, and let’s start planning your dream elopement together.

Step 2: Choose Your Date and Time!

Now it’s time to choose when to elope in Glacier National Park. Choosing the perfect time to elope in Glacier National Park can be tricky, but the good news is that you really can’t go wrong! Each season offers its own unique beauty, and this guide will help you decide which time of year best fits your vision.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind:

• The majority of the park is closed for much of the year due to winter weather at higher elevations.
• Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the park’s most iconic features, typically opens in early to mid-July and closes again around mid-October. (Check for current updates here.)
• Despite seasonal closures, Lake McDonald is accessible year-round!

Spring (May & June)

Spring in Glacier brings a magical mix of warming temperatures and breathtaking snowcapped mountains. It can still be chilly during these months, so bring a jacket! Late May to early June is your best bet for catching some locations on the East Side of the park as they start to open. If you’re dreaming of a backdrop with snow capped mountains, this is the time to go! Just be aware that you will not be able to access locations like Logan Pass and Big Bend at this time of year.

Accessible locations in spring:

• Lake McDonald (year-round)
• Two Medicine (late May)
• St. Mary (early May)
• Many Glacier (late May)
• North Fork District (mid-May)

Summer (July & August)

Summer is the busiest and warmest time in Glacier, and for good reason! The park is in full bloom, with lush greens, vibrant blues, and even wildflowers making an appearance from late July to early August. During these months, Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open, connecting the East and West sides of the park. If you don’t mind the crowds, summer is truly spectacular. You can check out an example of summer in Glacier on my blog here and here! Summer is the most popular time to elope in Glacier National Park, so be aware that you may be working around crowds.

Fall (September & October)

If you’re looking for crisp air, fewer crowds, and absolutely unreal golden hues, fall is the season for you. Glacier’s autumn colors are stunning, with vibrant yellows and rich golds painting the landscape. This is my personal favorite time of year in the park! The crowds are dwindling, the crisp air is moving in, and the golden hues photograph so beautifully!

• Going-to-the-Sun Road usually closes by mid-October, but this depends on when winter weather arrives. Be flexible and willing to adjust if you are planning an October elopement. Winter weather at higher elevations can roll in when you least expect it. But don’t let this scare you! October is truly magical, and as long as you have an open mind and are open to pivoting location plans last minute, you will be fine!
• For the best fall foliage and a higher chance of the road still being open, aim for late September. The last week of the month is especially stunning! This is when the fall colors are usually at it’s peak! Bright yellows and oranges fill the park!

Check out this gorgeous fall engagement session for a glimpse of the park’s breathtaking autumn scenery.

Winter (November – April)

While most of the park is inaccessible during winter, Lake McDonald remains open year-round, and a winter elopement here is nothing short of magical! If you’re willing to embrace the cold, you’ll be rewarded with stunning snowy landscapes and a truly intimate experience. The park is basically empty in the winter, so no need to work around tourists!

No matter when you choose to elope in Glacier National Park, it’s guaranteed to be breathtaking. Each season offers something special, so pick the time that speaks to you most and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Should I choose a week day or weekend date?

If you can plan your elopement on a weekday, that’s always my personal recommendation! Weekends tend to be much more crowded, making it harder to secure a permit for your dream ceremony spot due to the higher number of elopements. Plus, there are less tourists during the week!

Step 3: Let’s Pick Your Ceremony Location!

There are countless breathtaking locations in the park for your ceremony. To explore the full list of approved ceremony sites and important details, visit the official NPS page! You can also check out drive times to each location here.

Here are some of my personal favorite Glacier National Park elopement locations:

• Lake McDonald
• Rising Sun Picnic Area
• Many Glacier
• Pray Lake
• Running Eagle Falls
• Bowman Lake
• Sun Point
• Big Bend

And below are my top five ceremony locations in Glacier National Park! If you book with me, I’ll provide an extensive list of my favorite hidden gems, plus valuable tips to make your day perfect.

Lake McDonald

One of the most iconic and breathtaking spots in the park, Lake McDonald is a dream location for a ceremony. With its easy accessibility, year-round availability, and multiple picturesque sites to choose from, it’s no wonder it’s such a popular choice! Some of my personal favorites along the lake include Sprague Creek, the 7-mile pullout, and the 10-mile pullout, each offering stunning views and a truly magical atmosphere. If you want to see an example of how magical a Lake McDonald elopement is, check out this stunning elopement at Apgar Amphitheater at Lake McDonald!

Big Bend

Another popular spot in the park! It’s easily accessible, with no hiking required. It’s literally on the side of the road with the most epic views! I do a lot of sessions and elopements at Big Bend. It’s such a beautiful spot! One thing to note about this ceremony location is that you must have the ceremony take place in the gravel portion, right by the cars. Because of this, there are a lot of tourists moving about and it doesn’t offer much privacy. If you love the look of Big Bend, but want a more private area for your ceremony, I recommend having your ceremony elsewhere and then stopping here for photos after!

Sun Point

Sun Point is probably my favorite ceremony location in Glacier National Park! Just look at those breathtaking views! Located on the east side of the park, it’s a must visit. It can get pretty windy up there, but if you’re willing to embrace the elements, it is a stunning view!

Pray Lake/ Two Medicine

Glacier’s hidden gem! This is about a 1.5 hour drive from the West side of the park and is such a beautiful little secluded area of the park! If you choose this location, your ceremony would be at Pray Lake and then we would adventure around the area for more photos! Pray Lake is also one of the few spots that allows a larger group. If you are having your friends and family join for the ceremony, Pray Lake is aq great option for your Glacier National Park wedding ceremony!

Many Glacier

Okay, I lied. this is my favorite area of the park. It’s a further drive, but the views are truly unmatched. It feels like you are in another world! Truly magic. There is so much variety in locations within Many Glacier…lakes. fields, waterfalls. You can get it all! And the best part? Most of it is on the side of the road! Check out Many Glacier Hotel SW beach and Lake Josephine for some stunning ceremony location options in Many Glacier!

Step 4: Apply for Your Permit

Okay, now it’s time for the nitty gritty details! If you’re planning to elope in Glacier National Park, including exchanging vows or holding any type of ceremony, you’ll need a Glacier National Park elopement permit. You can apply up to a year in advance, and I highly recommend doing so as soon as possible. If your first choice location isn’t approved for the ceremony, don’t worry, we can still capture beautiful photos there!

You can apply for your permit here. There is a non refundable application fee of $125 that you will have to pay when submitting your application. Permit application assistance is included in all of my packages, and I’ll guide you through the entire process if you choose to book with me!

Another important thing to know: Glacier National Park recently implemented a vehicle registration system. If you’re accessing Going-to-the-Sun Road from the West side or visiting the North Fork area between the hours of 7am-3pm, you’ll need a vehicle registration in addition to your ceremony permit. You can find all the details here! 

Step 5: Book Your Vendors!

Now that you have your date and location, it’s time to book your vendors! If you book with me, I will send you a list of amazing vendors in the area to ensure that you get the best team on your elopement day! I also offer an all inclusive package, which takes the guess work out of booking some of your vendors! You can also check out Montana Bride for an extensive list of amazing Montana wedding vendors.

Some ideas of other vendors that you may want to have included on your elopement day: officiant, hair and makeup team, florals, catering (whether it’s for a larger venue, or a picnic with just the two of you!), bakery, or videographer just to name a few.

Step 6: Obtaining Your Marriage License

Let’s make it legal now! You must apply in the county in which you are getting married. I recommend applying online in advance to make it easier on yourself! You can’t apply more than 180 days in advance, so set a reminder in your phone once you’re less than 180 days away from the big day. There is a $53 fee, and you can pick up (and drop off) your license up Monday-Friday at the office (except holidays). Be sure to check the hours of the government building here before you travel to Montana! You want to make sure you plan your travel days according to when you’ll be able to pick up and drop off your marriage license.

The county office is located at: 800 S. Main Street Kalispell, MT 59901

I am also available to drop off your marriage license if you need!

Step 7: Book Your Lodging

Glacier National Airport (FCA) is conveniently located and provides easy access to everything you need. If you’re flying in for your elopement, I highly recommend choosing this airport for a seamless arrival.

First, a little info on the area! The most common cities to stay in are Whitefish, Kalispell or Columbia Falls. They are all about a 15 minute drive from the airport and have the most to offer. 

Whitefish

Whitefish is my favorite little town and where most of my couples choose to stay! This is your quintessential “Hallmark town.” It’s where Whitefish Mountain is (our ski mountain!) is and the downtown area is just the cutest thing you’ll ever see. This is where most of the good restaurants are as well! It’s about 40-45 minutes from the West Entrance of the park.

Kalispell

Kalispell is where everything you need will be: Walmart, Costco, fast food, Target, etc. There is also a cute downtown area in Kalispell as well! Kalispell is also about a 45 minute drive to the West entrance of Glacier.

Columbia Falls

Columbia Falls has a few restaurants and coffee shops, but still more “up and coming”. It’s closer to Glacier and you can still access Whitefish and Kalispell quickly and easily! It’s about a 20-25 minute drive to the west entrance of Glacier.

Below are some of my favorite hotels and airbnbs in the area!

• Stay Treetops: https://staytreetops.com/
• Under Canvas: https://www.undercanvas.com/camps/glacier/ 
• The Cabins at Blacktail: https://www.cabinsatblacktail.com/ 
• Columbia Falls Treehouse: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/41068603?source_impression_id=p3_1736719404_P3-fhM86j2PSuyLs
• Clydesdale Outpost: https://www.clydesdaleoutpost.com/ 
• Haymoon Resort: https://haymoonresort.org/ 
• Firebrand Hotel: https://firebrandhotel.com/
• Whitefish Outpost: https://www.vrbo.com/2472386 

Step 8: Plan the Rest Of Your Trip!

There are endless exciting activities in the Glacier area, so you’re sure to have a great time no matter what you choose! Hiking is incredibly popular, and you can explore a great list of trails here. But there’s much more to enjoy in the area, including:

• Glacier Rafting
• Horseback Riding
• Big Mountain Resort
• City Beach
• Flathead Lake
• Boat Tours
• Glacier Ziplines
• Explore downtown Whitefish
• Check out a rodeo!
• Rent kayaks on the Flathead River
• Bike Going-To-The-Sun-Road with e-bikes!

Whatever adventure you pick, you’re bound to create unforgettable memories!

Step 9: HAVE FUN!

Whew, okay, all the logistical stuff is done! Now it’s time to enjoy! If I have the honor and privilege of photographing your elopement, I will help you with alllll of these steps. You’ll even get a custom elopement guide with information and tips for your day. So, if you feel like you connect with my work, let’s chat!

A few last little tips!

• Be flexible. Eloping in Glacier National Park can be unpredictable! From weather, to road closures, to unexpected wildlife…things can change on a dime! Go into your elopement with an open mind and a flexible plan. If you are booking with me, I’ll make sure we have a plan B (and C) in place for your day. I know the area and know how to pivot if needed!
• Be prepared. With the unpredictable elements (especially weather!), bring things like a rain jacket, coat or warm attire, comfortable shoes to change into, extra water, headlamps (especially if we are hiking at sunset), snacks, hair pins (in case we get caught in the wind), touch up makeup, and bear spray (which I will also have!). Also bring some bubbly to celebrate-you deserve it! And make sure you don’t forget your ceremony permit and marriage license.
• Make sure you fill your car with gas before entering Glacier! There are no gas stations in the park and the last thing you want is to be stranded with an empty tank. Fill up in Columbia Falls or one of the stations right at the West entrance! Also pick up some last minute food here if you forgot to pack snacks. This is your last stop for food + gas!
• Days are loooong in the summer months here in Montana. With the sun setting as late as 9/10pm during some months, you have lots of daylight to explore and plan your elopement!
• Make your day unique to YOU. Feel free to bring special items such as vow books, special momentos, champagne for a toast, or incorporate a fun activity into your day such as a hike or canoe ride on Lake McDonald.
• Dogs are only permitted in certain areas of the park, and are not allowed on trails. If you want to have your furry friend included in your ceremony, be sure to pick a ceremony location that allow dogs! You can check out the full list of ceremony locations here. Locations that allow dogs will say “pets allowed” under the “site details and restrictions” sections.
• Always check out the NPS website for the most up to date information! This blog post was written with the 2025 season in mind and rules and restrictions are subject to change always!

Glacier National Park Elopement FAQ

Do you need a permit to elope in Glacier National Park?

Yes. All wedding and elopement ceremonies in Glacier National Park require a Special Use Permit. This applies whether you’re planning an intimate elopement with just the two of you or a small group of guests. Permits help protect the park and ensure ceremonies don’t interfere with other visitors or sensitive areas.

How much does a Glacier National Park elopement permit cost?

The Glacier National Park wedding permit fee is currently $125. This fee is non-refundable and must be submitted with your application. Permit requirements and fees can change, so it’s always best to double check with the park when planning your elopement!

Can you elope in Glacier National Park in winter?

Yes, winter elopements are possible, but they require flexibility and an open mind! Many roads, including Going-to-the-Sun Road, are closed or partially inaccessible. Winter elopements involve limited locations, and colder conditions , but they can be incredibly peaceful and beautiful! Lake McDonald is the best spot for a winter wedding!

How many guests can you have at a Glacier National Park elopement?

Guest limits depend on the ceremony location. Most sites allow anywhere from 10 to 25 people, but there are a few that allow up to 250! The amphitheaters allow the largest guest counts. Apgar Amphitheater is the easiest to access, but the St Mary Amphitheater is my favorite for the views!

What time of day is best for an elopement ceremony?

Sunrise and sunset are the most popular times for Glacier National Park elopements. Sunrise offers quieter locations and soft light, while sunset provides golden light. I will work with you to decide the best time for your ceremony based on where else you want to explore in the park, if you have a reception to get to, if you are doing a first look, etc.

Do you need an officiant to elope in Glacier National Park?

The state of Montana actually does not require an officiant OR a witness! I know there’s a lot of mixed information about this out there, but you can always call the county court to double check! I’m also happy to sign as a witness if needed!

What should we wear for a Glacier National Park elopement?

Obviously, pick whatever wedding attire you love! Depending on your ceremony location, you may want to get changed at the location instead of sitting in your wedding dress for the 2+ hour drive. I offer a pop up tent for this reason! Weather can change quickly, so planning for warmth and wind is important, even in summer. Pack jackets, a rain jacket if you have one, extra socks, comfortable shoes to walk around in (you can change back into your heels once we are set for photos), lots of water, and some snacks/on the go meals!

Can we take photos anywhere in Glacier National Park?

You can technically take photos throughout Glacier National Park, but certain areas have restrictions on where you can walk or stand in order to protect fragile plants and the natural environment. Working with a photographer who knows the park well helps ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this! I hope these steps are helpful for you as you begin planning your elopement in Glacier National Park! If you are in need of a photographer and you feel like we might be a good fit, I’d love to chat with you! You can also learn a little bit about me and your elopement experience with me here.