

Gina and Bryan’s Sun Point elopement last June was one of those days that perfectly captures what eloping in Glacier National Park is really like: unpredictable weather, big adventure, and choosing joy no matter what the forecast says!
One of the biggest highlights of the day was that the Going-to-the-Sun Road had just opened. If you know Glacier, you know how huge that is! It’s always a toss up if my June brides will get to access the road or not. Since the road opened a few days prior, we were able to travel straight through the park (instead of around), which meant their guests got a full tour of Glacier National Park along the way!
We arrived at the Rising Sun Shoreline for their ceremony, tucked along the edge of St. Mary Lake. Gina and Bryan had the sweetest private first look while their guests waited around the corner. Once the first look was complete, I gave the signal and everyone came to join us! Early summer in Glacier is always a little unpredictable, and June is no exception. Snowmelt had the water levels high, leaving only a small area of shoreline to work with. So we all gathered together, close and cozy, for Gina and Bryan’s ceremony! Once we were all gathered around, we noticed the dark clouds in the distance…and they were heading right for us! We decided to jump right into the ceremony in case the weather caught up to us.
Aaaaand of course, the rain arrived right on cue!
Instead of letting it dampen the mood, everyone laughed and embraced it. Gina and Bryan stood there in the rain, soaking wet and smiling, completely present with each other. Family photos followed, still in the pouring rain, and we made the most of it! I tell all of my couples how important it is to be flexible with their Glacier elopement. Weather can change on a dime! Gina and Bryan didn’t let it bother them one bit…that’s part of the adventure! They made the best of their Sun Point elopement!
Once the ceremony wrapped up, their guests headed back to their Airbnb to dry off and warm up. Gina, Bryan, and I stayed back to explore the park a bit for photos. We kept waiting for the rain to pass, but it never really did. After a bit, they shrugged it off and said, “We’re here, who cares?!” That attitude set the tone for the rest of the day.
Rain jackets on and spirits high, we made our way to Sun Point. We hiked up in the rain and honestly just leaned into the chaos of it all. It was magical! Misty, moody, and full of laughter. And Sun Point showed up with it’s magnificent landscape and moody rain clouds!
Just when we thought the rain might never end, Glacier surprised us one last time. As we continued driving through the park, the clouds finally broke, and suddenly the sun was out! We ended the day at Big Bend, warming up in the sunshine.
Gina and Bryan’s elopement was a perfect reminder that your wedding day doesn’t need perfect weather to be perfect. Sometimes, the rain soaked, slightly chaotic days are what make it special!
If you’re dreaming of a dramatic, scenic, and unforgettable Glacier National Park elopement, Sun Point is such a beautiful place to consider. You can read my entire guide to eloping in Glacier National Park here! And if you’re looking for a Glacier National Park elopement photographer, I’d love to help you plan your day! You can contact me here, or check out more of my work on the blog!

If you wantGlacier views without a strenuous hike, Sun Point is hard to beat! It’s located on the east side of Glacier National Park and gives sweeping views of St. Mary Lake.
One of the biggest perks of a Sun Point elopement is accessibility. There’s no hike required! Just a short, flat walk from the parking area, making it an ideal location for couples who want incredible views without wanting a long hike. This also makes Sun Point a great option for sunrise or sunset ceremonies when you want beautiful light without a long trek.
Sun Point is also one of the more guest-friendly elopement locations in Glacier. You’re allowed to have up to 20 people, which is perfect for couples who want an intimate ceremony but still want to include close family and friends
From a photography perspective, Sun Point offers so much variety in a small area! You get open lake views and layered mountain peaks all at the same time. It’s a dream location if you want your elopement gallery to feel diverse without bouncing between multiple spots in the park!
A few things to keep in mind: Sun Point is a popular stop along Going-to-the-Sun Road, so timing matters. Early mornings and evenings are best for privacy and softer light, especially during peak summer months.
All in all, Sun Point is an incredible choice for couples who want iconic Glacier National Park scenery with easy access.
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.